Description
These Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes are a hearty and comforting side dish perfect for any meal. Crispy on the outside and creamy, cheesy, and packed with tender broccoli on the inside, they offer a delicious way to enjoy a vegetable-packed potato classic. Baked twice to perfection, they are both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 4 large russet potatoes
Filling
- 1 1/2 cups chopped broccoli florets (fresh or frozen and thawed)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (divided)
- 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Garnish
- Chopped green onions or parsley
Instructions
- Bake the Potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, pierce each with a fork, and bake directly on the oven rack for 45–60 minutes until fork-tender. Remove from oven and let cool slightly to handle safely.
- Cook the Broccoli: While the potatoes bake, steam the chopped broccoli for 3–4 minutes until just tender. Once steamed, set aside to cool slightly.
- Scoop Out the Centers: When potatoes are cool enough, slice each one in half lengthwise. Using a spoon, gently scoop out the insides into a large bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato inside each skin to maintain the shell’s structure.
- Make the Filling: To the scooped-out potato flesh, add sour cream, unsalted butter, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and milk. Mash thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Fold in the steamed broccoli and 3/4 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese. Adjust milk quantity if needed to achieve a creamy texture.
- Stuff and Bake Again: Spoon the creamy filling back into the potato shells. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese evenly on top. Arrange potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese topping is melted and golden brown.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle with chopped green onions or parsley for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve warm and enjoy this comforting dish.
Notes
- You can use fresh or frozen broccoli; just make sure to thaw if frozen.
- If you prefer a creamier filling, add milk gradually until the desired consistency is reached.
- Other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can also be used based on your taste.
- For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika to the filling.
- These potatoes can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven.
