Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

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 incredible way to add more veggies to your plate! Creamy, cheesy, and filled with wholesome broccoli, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family meal or an impressive gathering with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of creamy cheddar cheese and fresh broccoli creates a rich and satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side. These Cheesy Baked Potatoes complement various meals perfectly.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without any fuss.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and potatoes, this recipe includes nutritious ingredients that will satisfy your cravings while providing essential vitamins.
• Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasoning and toppings to suit your taste preferences!

Tools and Preparation

To create these Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, you will need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides an even surface for roasting potatoes, ensuring they cook thoroughly.
• Knife: Essential for chopping broccoli into small florets, allowing it to blend well into the sauce.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy cheese sauce without spilling or splattering.

Ingredients

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; use approx. 3/4 of the block)
– 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets (the smaller the better!)

How to Make Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your potatoes bake evenly and achieve that perfect crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash the russet potatoes under cold water and scrub them clean. Pat them dry with a towel.
2. Drizzle olive oil over each potato, then sprinkle kosher salt generously on all sides.
3. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 3: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt unsalted butter.
2. Once melted, whisk in all-purpose flour until smooth and bubbly, forming a roux.
3. Gradually add milk while continuously whisking until thickened.
4. Stir in ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
5. Fold in finely chopped broccoli florets until well incorporated.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. When the baked potatoes are done, remove them from the oven.
2. Cut each potato down the center but not all the way through to create a pocket.
3. Spoon generous amounts of broccoli cheese sauce over each potato.
4. Top with black pepper, fresh chives or scallions as desired.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce as a comforting meal that’s sure to please!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want a hearty main dish or a delightful side, these cheesy potatoes can be dressed up or down to suit your meal.

For Lunch or Dinner

• Serve with a side salad – A fresh green salad balances the richness of the cheesy potatoes.
• Add grilled chicken – Pairing with grilled chicken makes it a more filling meal.
• Top with salsa – A spoonful of your favorite salsa adds a zesty kick.

As a Side Dish

• Serve alongside steak – These potatoes complement the flavors of a juicy steak perfectly.
• Pair with roasted vegetables – Roasted veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.
• Accompany with fish – The creamy cheese sauce pairs well with baked or grilled fish.

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

To make your Cheesy Baked Potatoes even better, consider these helpful tips for perfection.

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh broccoli and quality cheese enhance the flavor significantly.
• Preheat your oven properly – This ensures even baking and a crispy potato skin.
• Adjust spice levels – Customize the cayenne pepper and garlic powder to match your taste preferences.
• Let them cool slightly before serving – This allows the cheese sauce to thicken up just enough for easy serving.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce can be paired beautifully with several sides that complement their flavor. Here are some excellent options.

1. Steamed Green Beans – Bright and crisp, they add freshness to the meal.
2. Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons work well together.
3. Garlic Bread – A warm slice enhances the comforting feel of this dish.
4. Roasted Carrots – Sweet roasted carrots provide a delightful contrast.
5. Corn on the Cob – Juicy corn brings summer vibes to your plate.
6. Coleslaw – Crisp coleslaw offers a satisfying crunch and tangy flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

• Not preheating the oven: Always preheat your oven before baking the potatoes. This ensures even cooking and a crispy skin.
• Using cold ingredients: Make sure your milk and butter are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can lead to a lumpy cheese sauce.
• Overcooking the broccoli: To keep broccoli vibrant and flavorful, cook it just until tender before adding it to the cheese sauce.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your cheese sauce well. A little salt, pepper, and cayenne can enhance flavor dramatically.
• Not letting the potatoes rest: Allow baked potatoes to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the cheesy baked potatoes to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Wrap each potato tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
• Freeze 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). Bake wrapped potatoes for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat for 2-3 minutes or until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce.

Can I use other vegetables in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to swap out broccoli for other favorites like cauliflower or spinach.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using low-fat cheese or a plant-based milk alternative for a lighter version of Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce.

What should I serve with these baked potatoes?

These cheesy baked potatoes pair wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed veggies for added nutrition.

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the broccoli cheese sauce and store it separately before assembling everything right before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce offer a delicious and versatile meal option that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. They are easy to customize with different vegetables or spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!