Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce make a fantastic meatless main dish for lunch or dinner, and they can also serve as a saucy side dish. This crave-worthy recipe is an excellent way to incorporate more veggies into your meals, making it perfect for various occasions. The creamy broccoli cheese sauce paired with fluffy baked potatoes offers a delightful combination that will please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich, cheesy sauce combined with perfectly baked potatoes creates an irresistible taste sensation.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can have this dish ready to enjoy in no time.
• Nutritious Veggies: Packed with broccoli, this recipe adds essential nutrients to your diet.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or a side; it fits any meal plan!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to tweak the cheese or add spices to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe for Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smoother and faster.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for baking your potatoes to perfection.
• Medium saucepan: Ideal for preparing the creamy broccoli cheese sauce without spilling.
• Whisk: Helps mix ingredients smoothly, ensuring the sauce is lump-free.

Ingredients

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce make the most amazing meatless main dish for lunch or dinner and double as a saucy side dish. This crave-worthy recipe is an amazing way to add more veggies to your plate!

Ingredients:
– 2 large russet potatoes
– olive oil for drizzling
– kosher salt or sea salt for sprinkling
– black pepper and fresh chives or scallions (for seasoning to taste)
– 2 TBSP unsalted butter
– 2 TBSP all purpose flour
– 1 cup milk (whole or 2% )
– ¼ tsp ground cayenne pepper
– ⅛-¼ tsp garlic powder
– ⅛-¼ tsp salt
– 5.5 ounces freshly grated medium cheddar cheese (not bagged)
– 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (the smaller the better!)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This prepares the cooking environment for perfectly baked potatoes.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly under running water.
2. Pat them dry using a clean towel.
3. Drizzle olive oil over each potato and sprinkle kosher salt on top.
4. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

1. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
2. Halfway through baking, check on them and rotate if necessary for even cooking.

Step 4: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter.
2. Add all-purpose flour and whisk continuously for about one minute until it forms a roux.
3. Gradually pour in milk while whisking until smooth.
4. Stir in ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt.
5. Once thickened, remove from heat and mix in grated cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

1. Stir in finely chopped broccoli florets into the cheese sauce until well combined.
2. Let it sit while you prepare the potatoes.

Step 6: Serve

1. Once potatoes are done baking, slice them open lengthwise.
2. Spoon generous amounts of broccoli cheese sauce over each potato.
3. Season with black pepper and garnish with fresh chives or scallions before serving.

Enjoy your Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce! They are sure to be a hit at any meal!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you are enjoying them as a main dish or a side, these cheesy potatoes will impress everyone at the table.

As a Main Dish

• Enjoy them on their own for a hearty, meatless meal.
• Pair with a fresh salad to balance the richness of the cheese.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside grilled chicken or fish to complement the flavors.
• Pair with roasted vegetables for a nutritious dinner option.

For Meal Prep

• Prepare extra potatoes for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Store in airtight containers and reheat in the microwave for convenience.

With Toppings

• Add crispy bacon bits for an extra crunch (optional).
• Garnish with additional chives or scallions for freshness.

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

To ensure your Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh broccoli and quality cheese enhance flavor and texture.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your cheese sauce before serving and adjust salt and spices as needed.
• Bake potatoes thoroughly: Ensure that your russet potatoes are soft inside by baking them long enough.
• Grate your cheese: Grating your own cheese melts better compared to pre-packaged varieties.
• Experiment with toppings: Try adding different herbs or spices to customize your dish.
• Let it rest: Allow the baked potatoes to sit for a few minutes after removing from the oven; this helps the cheese sauce set slightly.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce can be complemented beautifully by various sides. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery side that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in creamy dressing adds freshness.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These bring a nutty flavor that contrasts nicely with cheesy potatoes.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch against rich potatoes.
5. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds brightness and sweetness to your meal.
6. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans offer a crisp texture and vibrant color.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can help you create the best Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Incorrect Potato Type: Using waxy potatoes will not yield the desired texture. Stick to russet potatoes for fluffiness and flavor.
• Overcooking Broccoli: Cooking broccoli too long can make it mushy. Steam just until tender to maintain a nice texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season your cheese sauce can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust seasoning like salt and pepper.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents, affecting melt quality. Grate fresh cheese for the best results.
• Not Drizzling Olive Oil: Skipping this step can lead to dry potatoes. A drizzle ensures crispy skin and enhances flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Wrap each potato individually in plastic wrap or foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place potatoes on a baking sheet and heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place potatoes on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
• Stovetop: Cut potatoes in half and heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other vegetables in the cheese sauce?

Yes! Feel free to add other veggies such as spinach or cauliflower for added nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

What can I serve with these cheesy baked potatoes?

These cheesy potatoes work well as a main dish or side. Pair them with salads, grilled chicken, or veggie dishes for a balanced meal.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli cheese sauce in advance and store it separately until you’re ready to bake the potatoes.

How can I customize this recipe?

You can customize by adding different cheeses, spices, or even proteins like cooked bacon or shredded chicken for extra heartiness.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that combines comfort food with nutritious ingredients. Its versatility makes it perfect as either a main dish or a side. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different toppings or add-ins to suit your taste! Give it a try—you’ll love how easy and delicious it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 2

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the comforting flavors of fluffy baked potatoes with a creamy, cheesy broccoli sauce. Perfect for lunch or dinner, this recipe not only serves as a hearty meatless main course but also works beautifully as a side dish. The combination of nutritious broccoli and rich cheddar cheese ensures that you incorporate more vegetables into your meals without sacrificing flavor. This easy-to-prepare recipe is customizable, allowing you to add your favorite spices or cheese variations to suit your palate. Enjoy these cheesy potatoes at any gathering, and watch them disappear from the table!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 large russet potatoes
• Olive oil
• Kosher salt
• Ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 5.5 ounces freshly grated medium cheddar cheese
• 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub and dry potatoes, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
2. Bake for about 50 minutes until fork-tender, rotating halfway.
3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt butter; whisk in flour for one minute. Gradually stir in milk until smooth.
4. Add cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt; cook until thickened. Stir in cheddar until melted, then mix in chopped broccoli.
5. Slice baked potatoes open and spoon the broccoli cheese sauce over them. Garnish as desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 potato (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 430
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 640mg
• Fat: 23g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 12g
• Cholesterol: 52mg