This Cheesy Broccoli and Vegetable Bake is a creamy, nutritious, and comforting dish that combines roasted broccoli, vibrant vegetables, and a luscious cheese topping. Perfect as a main dish or a side, it’s an excellent addition to any meal.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 1 large broccoli, cut into florets
- Olive oil, for drizzling and sautéing
- A handful of baby kale
- 1 small onion, diced
- 7 small cloves of garlic, minced
- 12 small tomatoes (cherry or grape tomatoes), halved
- 1 knob of butter (about 1 tablespoon)
- Salt, to taste
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 150 grams (1 1/2 cups) mozzarella cheese, shredded
Directions
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Place florets in a large mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until aromatic.
- Add Tomatoes and Kale:
- Add halved tomatoes and baby kale to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and kale to wilt slightly.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Push vegetables to the side of the skillet and melt the knob of butter in the center.
- Sprinkle flour over the melted butter and stir to create a roux.
- Gradually pour in the cream while stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and thyme.
- Combine and Bake:
- Add broccoli florets to the skillet and toss to coat them in the creamy sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy as a main course or a comforting side dish.
5 Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread for scooping up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with grilled chicken, salmon, or tofu for a protein-packed meal.
- Accompany with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced dinner.
- Use as a festive side dish for holiday gatherings or potlucks.
- Enjoy as a vegetarian main course with a side of rice or quinoa.
Cooking Tips
- Use fresh broccoli for optimal texture and flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce.
- Substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard if preferred.
- For extra cheesiness, mix Parmesan cheese into the sauce before baking.
- Cover with foil if the cheese browns too quickly while baking.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in Fiber: Broccoli, kale, and tomatoes support digestive health.
- Vitamin Boost: High in vitamins A, C, and K from the vegetables.
- Calcium-Rich: Cheese and cream contribute to strong bones.
- Antioxidants: Kale and tomatoes are packed with antioxidants.
- Protein Content: Mozzarella and cream add a mild protein boost.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian-Friendly: Contains no meat products.
- Gluten-Free Adaptation: Substitute flour with gluten-free alternatives.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip flour for a keto-friendly version.
- Customizable: Swap cream with a plant-based alternative for a dairy-free version.
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~280
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Fat: 23 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: ~250 mg
Storage
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven for best results.
- Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor.
- Loaded with nutrient-rich vegetables.
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal cleanup.
- Versatile as a main dish or side.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Broccoli and Vegetable Bake is the ultimate comfort food that blends healthy vegetables with indulgent creamy goodness. It’s a crowd-pleaser for family meals, holiday spreads, or potlucks. With its vibrant colors and rich flavors, it’s sure to become a household favorite. Enjoy the harmony of wholesome veggies and cheesy perfection in every bite!
10 Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, but thaw and pat it dry before using to avoid excess moisture. - Can I substitute kale with another green?
Spinach or Swiss chard are excellent substitutes. - What other cheese can I use?
Cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan work well. - Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives. - How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Use fresh cream and avoid boiling the sauce. - Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the dish and refrigerate. Bake just before serving. - How do I reheat leftovers?
Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through. - Is this recipe keto-friendly?
With a few tweaks, such as skipping flour, it can fit a keto diet. - What proteins can I add?
Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu can be added for extra protein. - Can I make it spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.