Creamy Garlic Broccoli Bake with Mozzarella — Easy Healthy Oven Recipe

Looking for a comforting yet nutritious side dish? This creamy garlic broccoli bake combines tender roasted broccoli, sautéed vegetables, and melted mozzarella in a rich, flavorful sauce. It’s an easy oven-baked broccoli recipe that turns simple ingredients into a cheesy, satisfying dish perfect for weeknight dinners or healthy comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Bake

• Packed with fiber-rich broccoli and kale for a nutritious boost
•  Creamy garlic sauce with melted mozzarella for irresistible flavor
•  Easy one-pan recipe — perfect as a healthy side dish or light meal
• Family-friendly way to enjoy more vegetables
• Ready with simple pantry ingredients

Ingredients

What you need:

• Florets from 1 large broccoli
• Extra virgin olive oil
• Small handful of young kale
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 7 small garlic cloves, minced
• 12 cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
• 1 knob of butter
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• 150 ml milk or light cream
• 1 tablespoon flour
• Crushed mozzarella cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broccoli

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and cut the broccoli into bite-size florets. Toss them in a large bowl with olive oil until evenly coated — this helps create perfectly roasted broccoli with crispy edges.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, kale, and cherry tomatoes, cooking briefly until fragrant.

3. Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Add the butter to the pan and let it melt. Sprinkle in the flour and stir for about 1 minute to create a light roux. Slowly pour in the milk or cream while whisking to form a smooth, creamy sauce. Season with salt and thyme.

4. Assemble the Broccoli Bake

Spread the broccoli florets in a baking dish. Pour the creamy garlic vegetable mixture over the top and toss gently to coat.

 5. Add the Cheese & Bake

Sprinkle crushed mozzarella evenly over the dish. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.

Tips for the Best Creamy Broccoli Recipe

• Roast the broccoli first for deeper flavor and better texture.
• Use freshly shredded mozzarella for a smoother melt.
• Add chili flakes if you want a spicy cheesy broccoli bake.

Serving Ideas

This cheesy baked broccoli with garlic sauce pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, pasta, roasted potatoes, or can be served as a vegetarian main dish.

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