Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale

📖 Description

This Creamy Baked Broccoli with Tomatoes and Kale is a comforting, cheesy vegetable casserole that’s packed with fresh flavors. Tender broccoli, nutrient-rich kale, and juicy cherry tomatoes are coated in a rich garlic-Parmesan cream sauce, topped with melted mozzarella, and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect side dish for any meal or a satisfying vegetarian main course.

🥦 Ingredients

For the Vegetables

• 4 cups broccoli florets
• 3 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Cream Sauce

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Topping

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup panko breadcrumbs (optional)
• 1 tablespoon melted butter (for breadcrumbs)
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

🍽️ Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
3. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
4. Add the broccoli florets and cook for 2–3 minutes.
5. Drain and immediately transfer to ice water to keep the broccoli bright green.
6. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Vegetables

1. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the kale and cook until just wilted, about 3 minutes.
5. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.
6. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Make the Cream Sauce

1. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a saucepan.
2. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
3. Slowly whisk in the milk until smooth.
4. Add the heavy cream and simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently.
5. Stir in the cream cheese until melted.
6. Add Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Assemble

1. Combine the broccoli, kale, tomato mixture, and cream sauce.
2. Pour everything into the prepared baking dish.
3. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
4. If using breadcrumbs, mix them with the melted butter and sprinkle over the cheese.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbling.
2. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden, crispy top (optional).
3. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

🍴 Serving Suggestions

• Serve with grilled chicken, steak, or salmon.
• Pair with roasted turkey or baked ham.
• Enjoy with crusty bread or garlic bread for a complete vegetarian meal.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6–8