Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale – Page 2

For the Creamy Sauce:

1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend works well)
2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional, for a little tang)
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Topping:

¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for an extra cheesy crust)
Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish: parsley, thyme, or basil)

Step-by-Step Recipe

1. Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the broccoli and kale to the pan, cooking for about 4-5 minutes, just until they begin to soften. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In a separate saucepan, combine the heavy cream, cream cheese, Dijon mustard (if using), garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Stir over medium heat until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
Add in the shredded cheese and continue stirring until fully melted and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if necessary.

4. Assemble the Dish

In a large baking dish, combine the sautéed broccoli and kale mixture with the halved cherry tomatoes.
Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the vegetables, stirring gently to coat everything evenly.

5. Add the Topping

Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy, golden crust.

6. Bake

Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly. You can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end for extra color and crispness.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot as a side dish to your favorite mains or enjoy on its own for a lighter meal.

Tips for Success

Blanch the Vegetables: If you prefer softer vegetables, blanch the broccoli and kale in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before sautéing them.
Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses such as Gruyère, Gouda, or Parmesan for a different twist on the flavor.
Make Ahead: This dish can be assembled ahead of time, stored in the fridge, and baked just before serving.
Adjust the Creaminess: If you want a lighter version, you can substitute part of the cream with milk or use a reduced-fat cheese.

Serving Suggestions

This creamy baked broccoli with tomatoes and kale pairs perfectly with a variety of main dishes:

Grilled or Roasted Meats: Serve alongside grilled chicken, roasted pork, or beef tenderloin for a well-rounded meal.
Pasta: It’s also an excellent side to pasta dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo.
Bread: Serve with warm crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Salads: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and nutritious dinner.

Storing and Reheating

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Gently reheat in the microwave or oven. If reheating in the oven, cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Why This Recipe is a Winner

Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a dish that combines comfort with nutrition. It takes simple ingredients and elevates them to a new level of flavor and richness. The balance of creamy sauce, savory garlic, fresh greens, and juicy tomatoes makes it a dish that everyone will love, whether they’re vegetable lovers or picky eaters.

The best part? It’s easy to make and can be adapted to fit any dietary needs or flavor preferences. Whether you serve it as a side dish, a light vegetarian meal, or a main course, this dish will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious way to enjoy your greens, Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is the answer. This dish strikes the perfect balance between healthy and indulgent, offering all the flavors you love in a simple, satisfying form.

Give it a try for your next family dinner or as part of a holiday spread—it’s sure to impress! 🌿🍅🧀

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