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Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Vegetables

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot of boiling salted water, blanch the broccoli florets for about 3 minutes until bright green. Drain and set aside.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped kale and sauté for 2-3 minutes, until slightly wilted. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the chopped onion. Sauté until softened, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
  3. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently until thickened.
  4. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Combine and Assemble

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched broccoli, sautéed kale, and tomatoes. Pour the cream sauce over the vegetables and toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  2. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Step 4: Add Breadcrumb Topping (Optional)

  1. If you want a crispy topping, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet and stir in the breadcrumbs. Sprinkle the buttery breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

  1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  2. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is incredibly versatile:

  • Serve it as a vegetarian main dish alongside a fresh green salad or crusty bread.
  • Pair it as a side with grilled chicken, roasted salmon, or baked pork chops for a balanced meal.
  • Enjoy leftovers for lunch by reheating with a sprinkle of extra cheese!

Why This Dish Is a Winner

  • Nutritious Yet Indulgent: This recipe combines nutrient-dense veggies—like broccoli, kale, and tomatoes—with a creamy, cheesy sauce that feels indulgent but is still packed with health benefits.
  • Family-Friendly: Even those who aren’t fans of greens will love this dish thanks to its rich flavor and bubbly cheese.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner, prepping for a potluck, or serving a holiday meal, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.

Tips for Success

  • Blanch the Broccoli: Don’t skip blanching—this ensures the broccoli stays tender without becoming mushy during baking.
  • Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan work well, feel free to try sharp cheddar, Gruyère, or Swiss for a bolder flavor.
  • Customize the Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for even more variety.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a winning recipe that celebrates fresh, wholesome ingredients in the most delicious way. The tender vegetables bathed in a luscious cream sauce and topped with melted cheese make this dish both hearty and nutritious.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner, a potluck, or as a cozy side dish, this recipe guarantees flavor and satisfaction in every bite. Give it a try—you might just find yourself adding it to your weekly meal rotation!

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