Description
Welcome to our delicious kitchen corner! Today, we’re diving into the world of Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce. This comforting dish combines crispy baked potatoes with a creamy, cheesy broccoli sauce that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a side dish. Whether you’re a cheese lover or simply looking to add more veggies to your plate, this recipe will become a favorite! Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large russet potatoes
- Olive oil (for drizzling)
- Kosher or sea salt (for sprinkling)
- Black pepper, fresh chives, or scallions (for seasoning, to taste)
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 (about 3/4 of a block)
- 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets
Optional Substitutions:
- Swap whole milk for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Substitute cheddar with gouda for a smoky twist.
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 425℉.
- Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pierce them with a fork in several spots.
- Brush the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 2: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce
- While the potatoes are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the flour, whisking constantly until the mixture turns golden.
- Slowly pour in the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
- Add cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and salt, cooking until the sauce thickens.
- Gradually add the grated cheddar, stirring until the cheese melts into a smooth sauce.
- Fold in the finely chopped broccoli and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Assemble the Dish
- Once the potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes.
- Slice them lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Pour the warm broccoli cheese sauce over the potatoes.
- Garnish with black pepper, chives, or scallions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Tip #1: Always use freshly grated cheese for the best melting results. Pre-packaged shredded cheese contains additives that prevent smooth melting.
- Tip #2: If you want a spicier sauce, increase the cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Tip #3: You can prepare the cheese sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to two days. Simply reheat before serving.