Description

Golden baked russet potatoes topped with a creamy, homemade broccoli cheese sauce. This comforting, veggie-packed dish is perfect as a main or hearty side and is naturally vegetarian.

Ingredients

4 large russet potatoes

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

2 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 tablespoon butter

1 tablespoon all-purpose flour

1 cup milk (dairy or unsweetened non-dairy)

1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese

1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

1/8 teaspoon paprika (optional)

Chopped green onions or chives for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub and dry the potatoes, then pierce each one a few times with a fork.
Rub the potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and place directly on the oven rack. Bake for 50–60 minutes until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender.
While the potatoes bake, steam the broccoli for 5–7 minutes until tender. Finely chop or mash slightly.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the garlic powder, paprika (if using), and chopped broccoli. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the potatoes are done, slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork.
Spoon the broccoli cheese sauce generously over each potato and garnish with green onions or chives.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Swap cheddar with pepper jack or gouda for a flavor twist.

Stir in cooked chicken or white beans to add protein.

Use cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lighter version.

Top with crispy onions or crushed crackers for extra crunch.

Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; keep sauce separate for best results.

Reheat sauce with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 loaded potato
Calories: 385
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 420mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 11g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 13g
Cholesterol: 50mg