Broccoli and Potato Bake with Creamy Herb Sauce

For the Bake:

• 4 medium potatoes (peeled and sliced into thin rounds)
• 1 large head of broccoli (cut into florets)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Creamy Herb Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream (or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for a vegan version)
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (to thicken the sauce)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Broccoli and Potato Bake with Creamy Herb Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, prepare the potatoes and broccoli.

• Peel and slice the potatoes into thin rounds, about 1/4 inch thick.
• Cut the broccoli into bite-sized florets.

Step 2: Parboil the Potatoes and Broccoli

To ensure the potatoes and broccoli cook evenly in the bake, it’s best to parboil them before baking:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add the sliced potatoes and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they’re just starting to soften but still firm.
• Add the broccoli florets to the pot in the last 2 minutes of cooking, then drain both the potatoes and broccoli and set them aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

While the potatoes and broccoli are cooking, prepare the creamy herb sauce:

1. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
2. Add the flour to the pan and whisk to create a roux. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
3. Slowly pour in the vegetable broth, whisking constantly to combine and smooth out any lumps.
4. Once the broth is incorporated, add the heavy cream and stir to combine.
5. Season with the herbs: thyme, rosemary, and oregano. Add salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, until it thickens to a creamy consistency. Stir occasionally to ensure the sauce doesn’t burn.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Now that the potatoes, broccoli, and sauce are ready, it’s time to assemble the bake:

1. In a large baking dish, lightly grease the bottom with olive oil or cooking spray. Layer the sliced potatoes on the bottom of the dish in an even layer.
2. Add a layer of broccoli florets on top of the potatoes.
3. Pour the creamy herb sauce evenly over the potatoes and broccoli, making sure everything is well-coated. Use a spoon to gently stir if necessary to ensure the sauce reaches all parts of the dish.

Step 5: Bake the Dish

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. After 20 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly, and the potatoes are fully tender.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the broccoli and potato bake is out of the oven, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately as a side dish with your favorite protein, or enjoy it as a comforting vegetarian main course.

Tips for Success

• Layering: Make sure the potatoes and broccoli are evenly distributed in the baking dish to ensure uniform cooking.
• Cheese lovers: Add shredded cheese (like cheddar or Parmesan) on top of the bake before the final 10-15 minutes of cooking for a cheesy, golden crust.
• Make it ahead: You can prepare the entire dish in advance, store it in the fridge, and bake it when you’re ready to serve.
• Vegan option: Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and use plant-based butter to make this dish vegan-friendly.

Final Thoughts

This Broccoli and Potato Bake with Creamy Herb Sauce is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner or a family gathering. It’s a delightful combination of tender vegetables, creamy sauce, and aromatic herbs that’s sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Whether you serve it as a side or a main course, this comforting bake is guaranteed to be a hit.

So, gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious!