Description
These Broccoli Cheese Baked Potatoes are a comforting and hearty meal perfect for a family dinner. Tender baked potatoes are loaded with steamed broccoli and smothered in a creamy homemade cheddar cheese sauce with a hint of paprika and hot sauce for a subtle kick. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a delicious, cheesy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for cozy nights.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes (8-10 ounces each)
- 2 tablespoons salt
- ½ cup water
Broccoli
- 1 head broccoli, chopped into florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 16 ounces whole milk
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce (more to taste)
- 6 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated
Instructions
- Prepare and bake potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean and pierce each several times with a fork. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for approximately 45-55 minutes, or until the skin is crispy and the insides are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Steam broccoli: While potatoes bake, bring ½ cup water and 2 tablespoons salt to a boil in a small pot or steamer. Add the chopped broccoli florets and steam for about 5 minutes until tender but still bright green. Drain and set aside.
- Make the cheese sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste and is lightly golden. Slowly whisk in the whole milk, ensuring there are no lumps, and continue whisking as the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in paprika, salt, black pepper, and hot sauce for flavor.
- Add cheese to sauce: Remove the saucepan from heat and gradually stir in the freshly grated cheddar cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning or hot sauce to taste.
- Assemble the baked potatoes: When potatoes are baked and cool enough to handle, slice each potato open lengthwise without cutting all the way through. Fluff the potato flesh gently with a fork. Spoon steamed broccoli evenly into the potatoes, then generously ladle the cheddar cheese sauce over the top.
- Serve: Serve the broccoli cheese baked potatoes hot as a delicious main dish or comforting side. Optionally garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of paprika for presentation.
Notes
- You can microwave the potatoes for a faster cooking option but baking gives the best texture and flavor.
- Feel free to add cooked bacon bits or chopped green onions for extra flavor.
- Use sharp cheddar for a bolder cheese sauce; mild cheddar can also be used but the sauce will be less flavorful.
- Leftover cheese sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and gently reheated.
- To make this recipe vegetarian-friendly, ensure the hot sauce and any added toppings are vegetarian.
