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 offers a delicious way to increase your veggie intake while satisfying your cheese cravings. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or cozy nights in, these cheesy baked potatoes are sure to impress with their creamy broccoli cheese sauce and hearty flavors.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Cheesy: The combination of freshly grated cheddar cheese and creamy sauce makes every bite irresistible.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy them as a filling main dish or serve alongside other favorites as a delightful side.
• Nutritious: Packed with broccoli, this dish adds essential vitamins and minerals to your meal.
• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have these cheesy potatoes ready to bake in no time.
• Meatless Wonder: A fantastic option for vegetarians or anyone looking to cut down on meat without sacrificing flavor.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Aluminum foil
• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the potatoes evenly without mess.
• Medium saucepan: Perfect for making the creamy broccoli cheese sauce; ensures even heating.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a smooth texture when combining the sauce ingredients, preventing lumps.

Ingredients

For the Potatoes

• 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)

For the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• 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) I use approx. 3/4 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 cook evenly and thoroughly.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

• Wash and scrub the russet potatoes under cold water until clean.
• Pat them dry with a towel.
• Use a fork to poke several holes in each potato; this allows steam to escape during baking.
• Drizzle olive oil over each potato and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake for about 50 minutes or until tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

While the potatoes are baking, prepare the sauce:
1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Once melted, whisk in all-purpose flour to create a roux; cook for about 1 minute until golden.
3. Gradually pour in milk while whisking continuously until smooth.
4. Add ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt; stir well.
5. Once the mixture thickens slightly, remove from heat and stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted.

Step 5: Add Broccoli

Fold in finely chopped broccoli florets into the cheese sauce until well combined.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven. Cut them open, fluffing up the insides with a fork before generously spooning over your creamy broccoli cheese sauce. Top with black pepper and fresh chives or scallions before serving!

Enjoy your Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as a main course or a side, this dish pairs well with numerous accompaniments, enhancing its flavor and presentation.

As a Main Dish

• Serve with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
• Pair it with roasted vegetables to add texture and taste.

As a Side Dish

• Complement grilled meats like chicken or steak.
• Enjoy alongside a hearty soup for a cozy meal.

Topped Variations

• Add crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of flavor.
• Garnish with sour cream and chives for added creaminess.

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Achieving the best Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Choose the right potatoes: Use large russet potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Bake thoroughly: Ensure the potatoes are cooked through by testing them with a fork before adding the sauce.
• Grate your cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-packaged, giving you that perfect creamy texture.
• Precook broccoli: Lightly steaming or blanching the broccoli before mixing it into the cheese sauce enhances its color and taste.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste the sauce before serving; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
• Add toppings: Experiment with various toppings like breadcrumbs or different herbs for added crunch and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce can stand alone but shine even brighter when paired with great sides. Here are some excellent options.

1. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing that adds crunch and flavor, perfect for soaking up any extra cheese sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a nice contrast to the creamy potatoes.
3. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw balances the softness of the potatoes while adding freshness.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
5. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their slight bitterness pairs nicely with cheesy flavors, enhancing your meal’s complexity.
6. Sautéed Spinach: Quick-cooked spinach adds color and nutrients, making your plate visually appealing and healthy.
7. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful burst of flavor that works well alongside cheesy dishes.
8. Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup makes an inviting combination that’s both comforting and delicious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using old potatoes: Freshness matters. Old potatoes can have a bad texture and taste. Always choose firm, unblemished russet potatoes for the best results.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to add salt and pepper! Proper seasoning enhances flavor. Sprinkle kosher salt and black pepper generously before baking.
• Overcooking the broccoli: Overcooked broccoli gets mushy. Steam or sauté until just tender for a better texture in your sauce.
• Using pre-grated cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melting. Grate fresh cheddar from a block for a smooth, creamy sauce.
• Not allowing the potatoes to cool: Cutting into hot potatoes can make them fall apart. Let them cool slightly so they hold their shape when filled.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce will keep for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Wrap baked potatoes individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power in short bursts of 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce:

Can I use other vegetables in the sauce?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other veggies like cauliflower or spinach for added nutrition.

How do I customize the cheese flavor?

You can mix different cheeses such as gouda or mozzarella for a unique twist on the classic cheesy flavor.

Are Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use vegan butter and cheese alternatives instead of dairy products for a delicious vegan version of this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce is not only an amazing meatless main dish but also a hearty side option. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it irresistible, while the addition of broccoli adds essential nutrients. Customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or different cheeses to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!