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.

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#### **Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce**
4. 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.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring continuously for **1-2 minutes** to cook off the raw flour taste.
6. Gradually whisk in the milk and heavy cream, ensuring a smooth consistency. Let the sauce simmer for about **5 minutes**, stirring frequently until thickened.
7. Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes.

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#### **Step 3: Combine and Assemble**
8. 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.
9. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

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#### **Step 4: Add Breadcrumb Topping** (Optional)
10. 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.

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#### **Step 5: Bake to Perfection**
11. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for **20-25 minutes**, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
12. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

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### **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!

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### **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.

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### **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.

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### **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!