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Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes – Creamy, Cheesy & Comforting Loaded Baked Potatoes!

These Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes are everything you love about cozy, cheesy comfort food. Imagine perfectly baked russet potatoes with soft, fluffy centers, smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce and loaded with tender broccoli florets. This dish is simple, satisfying, and feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you're serving it as a hearty side dish, a vegetarian main, or a comforting lunch, this recipe brings together classic flavors—sharp cheddar, soft potatoes, garlic, broccoli, and a creamy sauce that melts beautifully over every bite. It's wholesome, filling, and guaranteed to become a family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Potatoes
  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • Olive oil
Salt & pepper
  • Cheddar Broccoli Sauce
  • ¼ cup butter unsalted
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese shredded
  • 1 –2 cups broccoli florets steamed or lightly cooked
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Baking sheet
  • Aluminum foil (optional)
  • Medium saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Microwave or steamer (for broccoli)
  • Cheese grater

Method
 

Step 1 — Bake the Potatoes
  1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Wash and dry the russet potatoes.
  3. Pierce each potato with a fork several times.
  4. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
  5. Place directly on oven rack or on a baking sheet.
  6. Bake 45–60 minutes, until soft when squeezed gently.
Step 2 — Steam or Par-Cook Broccoli
  1. Chop broccoli into small bite-size florets.
  2. Steam for 3–4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
  3. Set aside.
Step 3 — Make the Cheddar Sauce
  1. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  2. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook 1 minute.
  3. Slowly pour in the whole milk while whisking continuously.
  4. Add garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  5. Cook until sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
  7. Fold in broccoli florets.
Step 4 — Assemble the Potatoes
  1. Slice each baked potato open (lengthwise).
  2. Fluff the inside gently with a fork.
  3. Spoon the hot broccoli cheddar sauce over each potato generously.
  4. Add more cheddar on top if you want a melty finish.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator
Store potatoes and sauce separately for 3 days.
Freezer
The cheese sauce does not freeze well. Only the baked potatoes can freeze.
Reheating
Reheat potatoes in oven or air fryer.
Warm sauce in a saucepan and add a splash of milk if too thick.
🥄 Variations
Extra cheesy: Add Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
Spicy: Add chili flakes or jalapeños.
Loaded style: Add crispy chicken pieces (no pork).
Creamier: Add a spoon of cream cheese to the sauce.
High-protein: Add shredded chicken or tuna.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I microwave the potatoes?
Yes—8–10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Do I need to peel the potatoes?
No, baked russet skins add flavor and texture.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and drain well.
How do I prevent cheese sauce from getting grainy?
Remove from heat before adding cheese.
Can I use low-fat milk?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner.
Can I add mushrooms?
Absolutely—sauté them first.
Can I make the sauce ahead?
Yes, reheat gently with a splash of milk.
What cheese melts best?
Freshly shredded cheddar melts smoother than pre-shredded.
Are russet potatoes required?
They give the fluffiest texture but any baking potato works.
Can I turn this into a casserole?
Yes—slice potatoes, layer with sauce, and bake until bubbly.
🏁 Conclusion
These Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes deliver the perfect blend of creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and fluffy baked potatoes. Comforting, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe turns simple ingredients into a warm and indulgent meal.
Whether for a cozy weeknight dinner, a comforting lunch, or a side dish for guests, every bite brings delicious creamy-cheesy goodness that everyone will love.