Description
Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Ingredients
4 large russet potatoes
2 cups broccoli florets, steamed and chopped
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/4 cup milk (or cream)
2 tablespoons butter
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Directions
Bake the Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes, prick them with a fork, and bake for 50-60 minutes until tender.
Prepare the Filling: Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl. Leave a thin layer of potato in the skins.
Mix the Filling: Mash the scooped potato with butter, milk, sour cream, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the steamed broccoli and half of the shredded cheese.
Stuff and Bake: Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins. Top with remaining cheddar cheese. Return to the oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve Hot: Garnish with extra broccoli or chives, if desired, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~350 kcal per serving
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Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. First, choose russet potatoes that are uniform in size for even baking. After scrubbing and pricking, rub the skins lightly with oil and salt for a crispier exterior. Bake directly on the oven rack. While they bake, steam the broccoli until just tender to retain bright color and nutrients. When scooping the potato, use a spoon and work carefully to keep the skins intact. For an ultra-smooth filling, use a potato ricer on the scooped insides before mixing.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potatoes are a versatile main or side dish. For a complete meal, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. They also pair wonderfully with grilled chicken or roasted pork chops. For a brunch option, top with a fried egg. Consider garnishes like crispy bacon bits, sliced green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or a drizzle of hot sauce to add extra flavor and texture.
How-to Summary
In short: bake whole potatoes until tender, scoop out the flesh, and mix it with butter, dairy, seasonings, steamed broccoli, and cheese. Spoon the flavorful mixture back into the skins, top with more cheese, and bake again until hot and melted. The process transforms simple ingredients into a hearty, satisfying dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time? Yes. Prepare the stuffed potatoes completely but stop before the second bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake from chilled, adding 5-10 minutes to the final baking time.
Can I use frozen broccoli? Absolutely. Thaw and thoroughly drain frozen broccoli florets, even pressing them in a clean towel to remove excess moisture. This prevents the filling from becoming watery.
How can I make this recipe vegan? Use vegan butter, plant-based milk and sour cream alternatives, and a melty vegan cheddar cheese. Nutritional yeast can also be added for a cheesy flavor boost.
Why are my potato skins soggy? Soggy skins often result from not baking the initial potatoes long enough or not leaving a supportive layer of potato inside. Ensuring the skins are dry before oiling and baking at a high heat (400°F) is key.
What other fillings can I try? This method is highly adaptable. Consider fillings like buffalo chicken with blue cheese, chili with cornbread topping, or a Mediterranean version with feta, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not pricking the potatoes: Skipping this step can lead to steam buildup and potential bursting in the oven.
- Overfilling the skins: Stuffing them too full can cause the filling to spill over and make a mess. Fill just to the top.
- Using cold dairy ingredients: Using sour cream and milk straight from the fridge can make the mashed potato mixture stiff. Let them come to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Underseasoning the filling: Potatoes need generous seasoning. Taste the filling before stuffing and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Conclusion
Cheesy Broccoli Stuffed Baked Potatoes are the epitome of customizable comfort food. This recipe provides a foolproof framework that balances creamy texture, vibrant broccoli, and gooey cheese in a crispy potato vessel. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that is both nutritious and indulgent. Its flexibility for make-ahead meals and various dietary adaptations makes it a reliable staple for any home cook’s repertoire.