Name: Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 3 medium Russet potatoes (scrubbed and rinsed); 2 Tbsp butter (diced into 4 pieces); 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour; 1/4 tsp onion powder ((scant)); 1/8 tsp garlic powder ((scant)); 1 cup milk; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar ((4 oz)); 1 cup chopped steamed broccoli florets ((chopped into very small pieces))

There’s something so comforting about a perfectly baked potato. Fluffy on the inside, crispy on the outside, and waiting to be topped with your favorite flavors. Today, we’re elevating the classic baked potato with a creamy, cheesy broccoli sauce that’s not only indulgent but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Get ready to impress your family with these Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce that are as delightful to eat as they are to make.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe stands out because it combines the humble baked potato with a rich, velvety broccoli cheese sauce. The sharp cheddar cheese adds a delightful tang, while the broccoli brings a pop of color and nutrition. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying side dish. The best part? It’s simple to make and can be tailored to your taste. You can enjoy it as a meal on its own or serve it alongside grilled meats or a fresh salad.

The Ingredient Lineup

To whip up these scrumptious baked potatoes, gather the following ingredients:

3 medium Russet potatoes, scrubbed and rinsed
2 Tbsp butter, diced into 4 pieces
2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp (scant) onion powder
1/8 tsp (scant) garlic powder
1 cup milk
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar (4 oz)
1 cup chopped steamed broccoli florets (chopped into very small pieces)

Toolbox for This Recipe

Before you get started, gather these essential tools:

Oven – for baking the potatoes to a perfect fluffiness.
Baking sheet – to place the potatoes while they bake.
Medium saucepan – for preparing the cheese sauce.
Whisk – to help blend the ingredients smoothly.
Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy in your ingredients.
Knife and cutting board – for chopping the broccoli.

Method: Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven heats up, take your scrubbed Russet potatoes and pierce them a few times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking and prevents them from bursting. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a knife.

Step 2: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

While the potatoes are baking, bring a pot of water to a boil and steam your broccoli florets until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the diced butter. Once melted, add the flour, onion powder, and garlic powder, stirring continuously for about 1 minute until it forms a paste (this is your roux).

Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue to cook, whisking frequently, until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.

Next, stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Fold in the chopped steamed broccoli, mixing until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Baked Potatoes

Once the potatoes are baked and tender, remove them from the oven. Let them cool for a few minutes before handling. Carefully cut a slit down the center of each potato, gently squeezing the ends to fluff the insides.

Spoon the creamy broccoli cheese sauce generously over each potato. You can top with additional cheese or freshly cracked pepper if desired.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce warm, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures. This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or can be enjoyed on its own for a hearty meal.

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to customize your baked potatoes, consider these substitutions:

For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.
Swap out sharp cheddar for your favorite cheese, such as Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Add cooked bacon bits or diced ham for an extra protein boost.
For a vegan alternative, use plant-based butter, unsweetened almond milk, and vegan cheese.

Recipe Notes & Chef’s Commentary

This Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce recipe is incredibly versatile. You can easily make it your own by adding different toppings or spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, try including some chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick or a sprinkle of paprika for a smoky flavor.

Make sure to chop the broccoli into very small pieces; this helps distribute it evenly throughout the sauce.
The sauce can also be made ahead of time and reheated before serving, making it a great option for meal prep.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave the potato with the sauce for a couple of minutes until warmed through.

If you have any leftover broccoli cheese sauce, it can be frozen for up to a month. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove before serving.

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Make It Tonight

Now that you’ve discovered how to make Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce, it’s time to get in the kitchen and whip up this satisfying dish. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal, these baked potatoes are sure to please everyone at the table. Enjoy the creamy goodness and the warm, fluffy potato that brings it all together. Happy cooking!

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