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! Perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in, these cheesy baked potatoes offer a delightful combination of flavors that will please everyone.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The creamy broccoli cheese sauce adds a rich taste that complements the fluffy baked potatoes perfectly.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this tasty meal in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or as a hearty side. It fits seamlessly into any meal plan!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with broccoli and cheese, this dish not only satisfies your cravings but also provides essential nutrients.
• Customizable Options: Feel free to add your favorite seasonings or toppings to make it uniquely yours.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking tray
• Aluminum foil
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking tray: Essential for achieving perfectly baked potatoes without a mess.
• Saucepan: Needed for making the luscious broccoli cheese sauce that tops the potatoes.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly, ensuring a creamy sauce without lumps.

Ingredients

To create delicious Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, you will need:

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)
• 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

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure that your potatoes cook evenly and develop a nice crispy skin.

Step 2: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Wash and scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly.
2. Pat them dry with a towel.
3. Drizzle olive oil over each potato and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Step 3: Bake the Potatoes

Place the potatoes on a baking tray lined with aluminum foil. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 4: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
2. Add all-purpose flour and whisk together until smooth, forming a roux.
3. Gradually pour in milk while continuously whisking until thickened.
4. Stir in ground cayenne pepper, garlic powder, salt, and half of the grated cheddar cheese until melted.
5. Add finely chopped broccoli florets and cook until tender.

Step 5: Assemble Your Dish

Once the potatoes are done baking:
1. Cut them open lengthwise.
2. Spoon generous amounts of broccoli cheese sauce over each potato.
3. Top with remaining cheddar cheese and any additional seasonings like black pepper or chives if desired.

Enjoy your comforting Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce!

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 them as a main dish or a delightful side, these cheesy potatoes will impress everyone at your table.

As a Main Dish

• Serve them hot right out of the oven for a hearty lunch or dinner.
• Pair with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the cheese sauce.

As a Side Dish

• Offer alongside grilled chicken or fish, adding a creamy texture to your plate.
• Serve with roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Topped with Extras

• Add crispy bacon bits or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor and texture.
• Drizzle with hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicy kick.

How to Perfect Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Making these cheesy potatoes can be simple, but a few tips can elevate your dish. Follow these suggestions for perfect results every time.

• Choose the right potatoes: Russet potatoes work best due to their fluffy texture when baked.
• Preheat the oven: Ensure your oven is fully preheated to achieve crispy skins on the potatoes.
• Use fresh cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better and provides superior flavor compared to pre-packaged options.
• Don’t skip the chives: Fresh chives add an oniony brightness that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your broccoli cheese sauce before pouring it over the potatoes, adjusting salt and spices as needed.
• Experiment with toppings: Try different herbs or spices to make this dish uniquely yours!

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Pairing sides with Cheesy Baked Potatoes can enhance your meal’s appeal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: A crunchy, buttery complement that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing provides a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Green Beans: Lightly seasoned green beans add color and nutrition without overpowering the dish.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the cheese sauce.
5. Roasted Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots bring natural sweetness that pairs nicely with savory potatoes.
6. Corn on the Cob: Juicy corn adds sweetness and is fun to eat alongside baked potatoes.
7. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted until golden, they add an earthy taste that complements rich dishes beautifully.
8. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a nutritious side option that rounds out your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

• Using the wrong potatoes – Russet potatoes are ideal for baking due to their fluffy texture. Avoid using waxy potatoes, as they won’t yield the same results.
• Overcooking the broccoli – To maintain vibrant color and texture, steam or blanch broccoli just until tender. Overcooked broccoli can become mushy in the sauce.
• Not seasoning adequately – Don’t forget to season each layer of your dish. A sprinkle of salt and pepper can elevate the flavor of both the potatoes and the cheese sauce.
• Skipping the cheese quality – Always use freshly grated cheese instead of pre-packaged. Fresh cheese melts better and has a richer flavor, making a big difference in your dish.
• Ignoring potato size uniformity – For even cooking, ensure your potatoes are similar in size. Uneven sizes may lead to some being undercooked while others become too soft.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• These can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the potato on a baking sheet and reheat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place the potato on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 2-3 minutes, checking at intervals, until hot throughout.
• Stovetop – Slice the potato in half and place it cut-side down in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated 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 substitute or add other vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, or spinach for extra nutrition.

How do I make this dish gluten-free?

To make Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce gluten-free, simply replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative like cornstarch or rice flour.

What type of cheese works best?

While medium cheddar is recommended, you can also experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Gruyère for different flavors.

Can I prep these baked potatoes ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare everything up to baking them and store them covered in the fridge for 1 day before baking.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Absolutely! These cheesy baked potatoes are perfect for meal prep as they reheat well and maintain their flavor.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. This recipe serves as a hearty main dish or a delightful side that complements various meals. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spices to suit your taste preferences. Give this comforting dish a try—you won’t be disappointed!