This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is the perfect way to enjoy a wholesome, comforting, and flavorful meal. Packed with nutrient-rich vegetables, coated in a velvety cream sauce, and topped with melty mozzarella cheese, this dish strikes the perfect balance between health and indulgence.
Whether served as a side dish or a main course, this recipe is a delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while satisfying your craving for something rich and creamy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Packed with Nutrients – Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants from fresh vegetables.
Incredibly Creamy & Cheesy – The combination of rich sauce and melted mozzarella makes every bite indulgent.
Versatile Dish – Enjoy it as a main meal, side dish, or pair it with grilled chicken or fish for a complete dinner.
Easy to Prepare – Made with simple, wholesome ingredients in just a few steps.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Seasonings
- 1 large head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 7 cloves garlic, minced
- 12 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 small bunch of baby kale
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil
Creamy Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for a GF option)
- 150 ml heavy cream
Topping
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Broccoli
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and chop the broccoli into bite-sized florets.
- In a large mixing bowl, toss the broccoli with olive oil until evenly coated.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes until fragrant.
- Add the halved cherry tomatoes and baby kale, stirring occasionally for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes soften slightly and the kale begins to wilt.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Push the vegetables to one side of the pan and add the butter to the empty space.
- Once melted, sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously to form a smooth roux.
- Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Season with salt and dried thyme for added flavor.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
- Add the broccoli florets to the creamy sauce and gently toss to coat them evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a lightly greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This creamy vegetable bake is delicious on its own or served with:
Grilled Chicken or Fish – A great protein addition for a balanced meal.
Crispy Green Salad – Fresh greens complement the rich and creamy flavors.
Garlic Bread or Rice – Perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.
Expert Tips for the Best Results
Coat the Broccoli Well – Tossing the florets in olive oil ensures they roast evenly and develop a slight crispiness.
Use Freshly Grated Cheese – Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can affect melting. Freshly grated cheese provides a smoother, more gooey texture.
Add a Pinch of Nutmeg – A small amount of nutmeg in the cream sauce enhances the richness and adds depth to the flavor.
Gluten-Free Option – Simply swap all-purpose flour for gluten-free flour in the roux.
Health Benefits of This Dish
This dish is not only delicious but also provides a variety of health benefits:
Broccoli – A great source of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants that support immune health.
Kale – Packed with iron, vitamin A, and antioxidants that promote heart health.
Garlic & Onions – Known for their immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties.
How to Store & Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
A delicious way to enjoy more vegetables while indulging in a creamy, cheesy dish.
Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even holiday gatherings.
Easy to customize with different cheeses or vegetables based on your preference.
This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a flavor-packed, comforting dish that brings together fresh ingredients and rich textures in every bite. Enjoy it with your loved ones for a meal that is both nutritious and satisfying.