Description
This Creamy Broccoli and Kale Bake with Mozzarella is a delicious, hearty dish that combines fresh vegetables with a creamy, cheesy sauce. The broccoli and kale are sautéed with garlic, onions, and tomatoes, then coated in a rich cream sauce before being topped with melted mozzarella cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish is ideal as a main course for vegetarians or as a comforting side dish to accompany any meal. The blend of flavors, from the earthy kale to the rich cream and gooey cheese, will leave you craving more.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
Prepare the Broccoli:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Wash and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Place the florets in a large mixing bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat evenly.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1 minute until aromatic.
3. Add Tomatoes and Kale:
- Add the halved tomatoes and baby kale to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and the kale to wilt slightly.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Push the 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 to taste.
5. Combine and Bake:
- Add the prepared 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 the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. 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.
7. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy as a main course or a comforting side dish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Vegetables: For the best flavor, use fresh broccoli and kale. If you’re using frozen vegetables, make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
- Cheese Alternatives: If you don’t have mozzarella, you can use cheddar, fontina, or parmesan cheese for a different flavor.
- Adjust the Cream: If you prefer a lighter version, use half-and-half or low-fat milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add Protein: For added protein, you can stir in some cooked chicken breast, tofu, or chickpeas.
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking