Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole
Introduction
Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole is a hearty Italian baked pasta dish made with fusilli, broccoli, tomatoes, artichokes, garlic, onion, celery, marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan, and sun-dried tomatoes. Baked until the cheese is melted and golden, this comforting vegetarian pasta casserole is perfect for a family dinner or a satisfying weeknight meal.
Watch the Video
Watch Vito’s step-by-step video to see how to prepare this Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole, from preparing the vegetables and pasta to assembling and baking the finished dish.
The video provides the complete visual preparation and currently includes the recipe ingredients and 400°F/45-minute baking instruction.
What Is Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole?
Sicilian broccoli pasta casserole combines tender pasta and broccoli with a rich tomato-based sauce, vegetables, and melted cheese before being baked in the oven. This version from Vito’s Italian Cucina uses fusilli, tomatoes, artichokes, garlic, marinara sauce, mozzarella, Parmesan and sun-dried tomatoes for a hearty Italian-inspired pasta bake.
Ingredients for Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole
- 1 1lbs Fussili pasta your choice pasta
- 1 4cups Broccoli Florets
- 1 28 oz can Whole tomatoes to be hand crushed
- 1 14 oz can Diced tomatoes
- 1 2 cups Marinara sauce
- 1 Artichoke hearts chopped
- 1 White onion diced – only use a half onion
- 1 Fresh garlic chopped
- 1 Celery chopped use 5 stalks
- 1 1/3 cup Sun-dried tomatoes chopped
- 1 4 cups Mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
- 1 olive oil very little
- Italian breadcrumbs
How to Make Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the onion, garlic, celery, artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes. Prepare the broccoli florets and crush the whole tomatoes.
2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce
Combine the tomatoes, marinara sauce, garlic, onion, celery and vegetables to create the flavorful base for the casserole.
3. Cook the Pasta
Cook the fusilli until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Combine the Pasta and Vegetables
Mix the cooked pasta with the tomato and vegetable mixture, making sure the sauce coats the pasta evenly.
5. Add the Cheese
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe casserole dish. Add mozzarella and Parmesan over the top, followed by the remaining ingredients.
6. Bake
Bake the casserole at 400°F for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden.
7. Serve
Allow the casserole to rest briefly before serving. Finish with additional Parmesan if desired.
Source basis: The current Vito recipe specifies a 400°F bake for 45 minutes and lists fusilli, broccoli, tomatoes, artichokes, marinara, mozzarella and Parmesan.
What Does Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole Taste Like?
This baked pasta casserole combines savory tomato sauce, tender broccoli, garlic, artichokes and melted cheese. The mozzarella adds a creamy, cheesy finish, while Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor. Sun-dried tomatoes add extra depth and a slightly tangy sweetness.
Is Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole Vegetarian?
Yes. Vito’s version uses pasta, vegetables, tomatoes, mozzarella, Parmesan and other plant-based ingredients and does not include meat.
Tips for Making Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole
- Cook the pasta al dente so it does not become overly soft during baking.
- Drain the pasta well before combining it with the sauce.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better melting and flavor.
- Do not oversalt the dish because Parmesan, mozzarella and other ingredients already contribute salt.
- Make sure the sauce coats the pasta evenly before baking.
- Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Fusilli works well because its shape holds the sauce, vegetables and cheese.
What Pasta Works Best for This Casserole?
Fusilli is used in Vito’s recipe, but other short pasta shapes such as penne or rigatoni can also work well in a baked pasta casserole. Short, ridged shapes are particularly useful because they hold onto tomato sauce and cheese.
What to Serve With Sicilian Broccoli Pasta Casserole
- Italian green salad
- Garlic bread
- Bruschetta
- Roasted vegetables
- Italian soup
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sicilian broccoli pasta?
Sicilian broccoli pasta is a Southern Italian pasta preparation traditionally associated with Sicily and commonly made with broccoli and pasta. Versions vary by region and ingredients.
Can I use another pasta instead of fusilli?
Yes. Penne, rigatoni or another short pasta can be used. Fusilli is particularly suitable because its shape holds sauce and other ingredients.
Can I make this pasta casserole ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the casserole ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake when ready to serve. Allow additional baking time if starting directly from the refrigerator.
Is this Sicilian broccoli pasta casserole vegetarian?
Vito’s recipe contains no meat, but check the Parmesan used if following a strict vegetarian diet.
Can I use fresh broccoli?
Yes. Fresh broccoli florets can be used. Cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 40 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: Add verified serving quantity
Course: Main Course / Pasta
Cuisine: Italian / Sicilian
Diet: Vegetarian*
Difficulty: Add level
Calories/Nutrition: Add only if accurately calculated
Similar Recipes
→ Pasta Recipes
→ Vegetarian Recipes
→ Main Dishes & Entrees
→ Italian Cooking Guides
→ Related Baked Pasta Recipes
→ Vito’s Recipe Videos
Notes
It’s savory, tangy, slightly sweet, creamy, and hearty, with each bite giving you a mix of vegetables, melted cheese, and tender pasta. The artichokes and garlic give it a distinct Mediterranean kick, while the mozzarella and tomatoes make it feel like a cozy, home-style Italian classic.
