Name: Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons (30 milliliters) avocado oil; 1 medium head of broccoli, de-stemmed, cut into small florets (~325 grams); 6 sun-dried tomatoes, ~40 grams, roughly chopped; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; ¼ teaspoon pepper; ⅛ teaspoon red pepper flakes; ½ cup + 2 Tablespoons (150 milliliters) heavy whipping cream; ¼ cup unsalted chicken stock (use vegetable stock for vegetarian-friendly); ¼ cup (30 grams) grated Parmesan cheese; Freshly-cracked black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 77 reviews

If you love vibrant, comforting side dishes with a rich twist, you are going to adore this Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe. It’s a wonderful way to elevate simple broccoli by tossing it with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and smothering everything in a luscious cream sauce. This dish is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and texture that will make you forget broccoli is the star. Whether you’re serving it alongside a family dinner or craving a cozy vegetarian treat, this recipe hits all the right notes with its perfect balance of creamy, savory, and slightly spicy elements.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows nine small white bowls arranged on a white marbled surface, each containing different ingredients. Starting from the top right, there is a bowl full of fresh bright green broccoli florets. To the left of it is a bowl with clear light yellow avocado oil. Below the broccoli is a bowl with reddish-brown sun-dried tomatoes. Next to the sun-dried tomatoes, toward the right, is a bowl filled with finely grated off-white Parmesan cheese. To the right of the cheese is a small bowl with coarse white salt. Below the cheese and salt are three smaller bowls in a row: the left one has dried green Italian seasoning, the middle one has bright red paprika powder, and the right one has dark ground pepper. In the middle bottom, there is a bowl filled with more light yellow unsalted chicken stock. Above the stack, to the left, is a very small bowl with some red pepper flakes. The bowls have a simple, clean look and are placed neatly for a clear view of each ingredient. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are, each bringing something special to the table. From the buttery avocado oil that gives a light, nutty base, to the punchy sun-dried tomatoes that add a vibrant burst, and the comforting richness of cream and Parmesan, these components come together in perfect harmony.

Avocado oil (2 tablespoons): This oil has a subtle flavor and a high smoke point, perfect for sautéing without overpowering the dish.
Broccoli florets (about 325 grams): Fresh, crisp broccoli provides the essential crunch and color.
Sun-dried tomatoes (6 pieces, roughly 40 grams): Chopped to add a tangy, chewy contrast and deepen flavor.
Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that ties the spices together beautifully.
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds warmth and a subtle smokiness to the dish.
Salt (½ teaspoon): Enhances all the natural flavors.
Garlic powder (¼ teaspoon): Offers that gentle garlic punch without overpowering.
Pepper (¼ teaspoon): Gives mild heat and depth.
Red pepper flakes (⅛ teaspoon): Just enough to introduce a hint of spiciness.
Heavy whipping cream (½ cup plus 2 tablespoons): Creates the luscious, silky sauce that wraps around the broccoli and tomatoes.
Unsalted chicken stock (¼ cup): Adds savory depth; easily swapped for vegetable stock for a vegetarian dish.
Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup, about 30 grams): Melts into the sauce, bringing a nutty, salty richness.

How to Make Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spices

Start by heating the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s shimmering and ready. Add your broccoli florets and chopped sun-dried tomatoes straight into the pan. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, garlic powder, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam as you cook everything together. This gentle steaming for about 10 minutes softens the broccoli while allowing all those wonderful spices and tangy tomatoes to meld beautifully. Remember to lift the lid occasionally to stir so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 2: Add Remaining Ingredients and Finish Cooking

Once the broccoli is tender and the tomatoes well heated, reduce the stove to medium-low. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, chicken stock, and sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Stir everything thoroughly to combine; you’ll see the sauce begin to thicken as it gently bubbles. Keep it uncovered and continue cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, stirring regularly to create that perfect creamy consistency that clings to every floret and tomato piece.

Step 3: Garnish and Serve

Once your sauce is beautifully thickened and glossy, remove the skillet from heat. Give the Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe a quick taste to adjust seasoning if needed, then sprinkle freshly cracked black pepper on top. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

The image shows three stages of cooking broccoli in a white pan on a white marbled surface. In the first layer, green broccoli pieces are roasted with some browned edges and bits of browned garlic or chili. The second layer shows the broccoli covered with a light creamy sauce, still showing the green and golden colors, with some brown bits mixed in. The third layer has the broccoli mixed more evenly with the creamy sauce and browned bits, with a wooden spoon stirring the mixture inside the same white pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple scatter of freshly cracked black pepper really elevates this dish, highlighting the creamy sauce with a sharp contrast. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a few chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil to brighten up the presentation and add a fresh aroma.

Side Dishes

This creamy goodness pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, roasted pork, or baked fish to create a balanced meal. If you’re keeping it vegetarian, think roasted potatoes, quinoa, or crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of that sauce. It’s versatile, making it great for weeknight dinners or even a special occasion.

Creative Ways to Present

To turn this simple side into a star, serve it over a bed of fluffy couscous or toss it with cooked pasta for a light main dish. You can also spoon it into warm puff pastry shells for an elegant appetizer that makes your Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe shine in a new form.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores incredibly well in the fridge. Place it in an airtight container and keep for up to four days. The flavors actually meld even more when resting, making for delicious leftover lunches or dinners.

Freezing

While you can freeze Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe, keep in mind the cream sauce may separate slightly once thawed. Freeze in airtight containers or bags for up to two months, and then thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring often to recombine the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts of 30 to 60 seconds, stirring in between, until warmed through. Adding a splash of cream or stock can help refresh the sauce as it reheats.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw and drain the broccoli well before cooking so it doesn’t release too much water and dilute the sauce.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

It’s easily made vegetarian by swapping chicken stock for vegetable stock. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegetarian-friendly.

How spicy is the dish?

The red pepper flakes add only a mild kick, so it’s gentle enough for most palates. You can adjust the amount up or down based on your spice preference.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or even some kale would complement the Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe beautifully and add extra nutrition.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe is such a gem for anyone who loves comforting vegetables with a rich, flavorful twist. It’s quick to prepare yet feels indulgent enough to make any meal special. Trust me, once you try this creamy creation, broccoli will never be the same again. I can’t wait for you to give it a go and share how much joy this dish brings your table!

Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

How to Make Creamy Broccoli with Sun-Dried Tomatoes Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Broccoli, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, and Spices