This Creamy Broccoli and Tomato Bake is a comforting and nutritious dish that combines tender broccoli florets, sweet cherry tomatoes, and baby kale with a rich, creamy sauce. Topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, it’s a perfect dish for those who love the balance of creamy textures and fresh vegetables. Enjoy this versatile recipe as a hearty main course or as a delightful side to complement any meal.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Calories: 310 kcal per serving
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 preferred), halved
- A knob of butter
- 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 the florets in a large mixing bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Toss to coat evenly.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until it releases its aroma.
- Add Tomatoes and Kale:
- Add the halved tomatoes and baby kale to the skillet.
- Cook for 2-3 minutes until the tomatoes begin to soften and the kale wilts slightly.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Push the vegetables to the sides of the skillet and add the knob of butter to the center.
- Once melted, sprinkle the flour over the butter and stir to form a roux.
- Gradually pour in the cream, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt and thyme.
- Combine and Bake:
- Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
- Spoon the mixture into a baking dish and distribute it evenly across the surface.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the broccoli is tender and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
- Serve:
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and nutritious dish as a main course or side.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve as a main dish with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
- Pair with a protein, such as grilled chicken or fish, for a more complete meal.
- Ideal for potlucks, family dinners, or as a comforting side for a holiday spread.
Cooking Tips:
- To prevent the broccoli from becoming too soft, blanch the florets in boiling water for 2 minutes before baking.
- For a crispy topping, add breadcrumbs mixed with a bit of melted butter over the cheese before baking.
- If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the creamy sauce.
Nutritional Benefits:
- Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, and provides fiber, supporting immune function and digestion.
- Cherry Tomatoes are high in antioxidants like lycopene, promoting heart health and reducing inflammation.
- Baby Kale is a nutrient-dense green that adds vitamins A and K, along with antioxidants to this dish.
- The creamy sauce made with cream and cheese adds a satisfying texture and flavor, making this dish wholesome and filling.
Dietary Information:
- Contains dairy and gluten.
- Can be made gluten-free by substituting flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
- Vegetarian-friendly.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Fat: 24g
Storage Tips:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
- Not recommended for freezing, as the texture of the cream sauce may change.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Rich and Creamy: The creamy sauce paired with cheese makes this dish irresistible.
- Loaded with Vegetables: Packed with broccoli, kale, and tomatoes, it’s a delicious way to eat more veggies.
- Quick and Easy: Simple steps and minimal prep time make this dish perfect for busy nights.
- Versatile: Can be served as a main or a side, making it adaptable to any meal.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Broccoli and Tomato Bake is a delectable dish that brings together fresh, nutritious vegetables with a rich, cheesy sauce. Simple to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it as a comforting main course or a flavorful side, and enjoy the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and wholesome ingredients.
10 Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, cheddar, gouda, or a blend of cheeses would work well. - Is there a dairy-free alternative?
Use dairy-free cream and cheese substitutes to make it lactose-free or vegan. - Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini would make great additions. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve. - What can I use instead of flour for a gluten-free version?
Substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend to thicken the sauce. - How can I add more protein to this dish?
Add cooked chicken, chickpeas, or tofu for extra protein. - How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, just thaw and pat it dry before using to avoid excess water. - What kind of cream should I use?
Heavy cream or half-and-half both work well for a rich sauce. - Can I make this dish spicy?
Yes, add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.