These Cheesy Baked Potatoes are stuffed with fluffy goodness and topped with a creamy broccoli cheese sauce. It’s comfort food at its best and perfect for any day!
Whenever I make this dish, I can’t resist sneaking spoonfuls of that cheesy sauce! If you’re a cheese lover like me, you’re going to fall head over heels!
What I love most is how filling these potatoes are. Whether for lunch or dinner, they make a cozy meal that’s super easy to prepare. Just bake, sauce, and enjoy! 🍽️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Russet Potatoes: These are perfect for baking due to their fluffy texture. If you don’t have russets, try using Yukon golds or baking potatoes instead for a creamier center.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets add color and nutrition. You can substitute with frozen broccoli; just be sure to thaw and drain it well before cooking.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a nice flavor kick. If you prefer something milder, Monterey Jack or a blend of both works great. Vegan cheese is also an option for a dairy-free version.
Sour Cream: This adds creaminess. If you’re looking for a lighter choice, Greek yogurt is a great substitute. For a dairy-free option, try coconut yogurt.
Butter: You can use olive oil or margarine for a healthier option, or even coconut oil for a hint of sweetness.
How Do I Make a Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is key to this recipe. Follow these tips to achieve a creamy texture without lumps:
- Make sure to whisk the flour into the melted butter thoroughly; this is called a roux. Cook it just until it’s lightly golden for the best flavor.
- Add milk gradually while whisking constantly. This helps prevent lumps from forming. Use a medium heat to allow the mixture to slowly thicken without scorching.
- Once thickened, remove from heat before stirring in the cheese. This way, the cheese melts evenly without clumping.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Baked Potatoes:
- 4 large russet potatoes
For the Broccoli Cheese Sauce:
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ cup milk
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 1 hour of baking time for the potatoes and an additional 20 minutes for preparation and assembly. So, you’ll need about 1 hour and 20 minutes before you can dig in. It’s an excellent side dish or a cozy main meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Potatoes:
First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, scrub the russet potatoes well under running water to clean them. Then, pierce each potato several times with a fork to let steam escape while they bake. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack (you can put a baking sheet below to catch any drips) and bake for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until they feel tender when poked with a fork. The time will depend on their size, so check on them occasionally!
2. Prepare the Broccoli Cheese Sauce:
While the potatoes are baking, let’s get started on the delicious broccoli cheese sauce! Take a saucepan and steam the broccoli florets until they’re bright green and tender—this should take about 5 minutes. Once cooked, remove them from the heat and set them aside. In the same saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Next, stir in the flour and cook it for 1 to 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Gradually whisk in the milk until you have a smooth mixture. Keep stirring until it gently simmers and thickens up nicely.
3. Make it Cheesy!
Once your sauce has thickened, it’s time to add the cheese! Stir in 1½ cups of shredded cheddar cheese and mix until it’s all melted. Then, add in your steamed broccoli florets and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good mix and remove the saucepan from the heat.
4. Finish the Potatoes:
When your baked potatoes are ready, carefully take them out of the oven (they’ll be hot!). Let them cool for a few minutes, then cut a slit down the center of each potato, being cautious not to cut all the way through. Use a fork to fluff the insides a little bit. Now, it’s time to spoon that creamy broccoli cheese sauce evenly over each potato.
5. Add Extra Cheese and Bake!
Top each potato with the remaining cheddar cheese. Pop the potatoes back into the oven for another 10 minutes or so, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Oh, it’s going to smell amazing!
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, you can garnish your cheesy baked potatoes with chopped green onions if you’d like. Serve them warm and enjoy this comforting dish with your friends and family. You’re going to love every cheesy bite!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just make sure the cheese you choose melts well to create that creamy texture!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but to enhance the flavor, consider adding sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the broccoli cheese sauce. They complement the dish nicely and add extra nutrients!
What Should I Do If I Have Leftover Broccoli Cheese Sauce?
Leftover broccoli cheese sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can use it as a dip for breadsticks, pour it over pasta, or even drizzle it over steamed vegetables for a quick meal.
Can I Prepare the Potatoes Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep the baked potatoes ahead of time! Just bake them as instructed, then allow them to cool completely before wrapping them in foil and refrigerating for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, heat them in the oven and add the sauce as normal!
