If you love a loaded baked potato with gooey cheese and creamy sauce, this recipe is for you! These cheesy baked potatoes with broccoli cheese sauce are warm, comforting, and perfect for a cozy meal. Crispy-skinned baked potatoes are smothered in a rich, homemade cheese sauce packed with tender broccoli. Whether you serve them as a main dish or a hearty side, they’re always a hit!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic comfort food – Creamy, cheesy, and totally satisfying.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients, no fancy techniques.
- Customizable – Add protein or extra veggies to make it a full meal.
- Great for meal prep – Bake the potatoes ahead and reheat when needed.
Ingredients
(Full list of ingredients below!)
- Russet potatoes
- Broccoli florets
- Butter
- Flour
- Milk
- Cheddar cheese
- Seasonings
Directions
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
Scrub the russet potatoes clean, then poke them a few times with a fork. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 50-60 minutes until fork-tender.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
While the potatoes are baking, steam the broccoli florets until they’re tender but still bright green. Set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce
In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux. Cook for a minute, then slowly whisk in milk until smooth. Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, season, and cook until thick and creamy. Add the steamed broccoli and mix well.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Slice open the baked potatoes, fluff the inside with a fork, and generously spoon the broccoli cheese sauce on top. Serve immediately!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- Crispier skins – Rub the potatoes with oil and salt before baking.
- Make it extra cheesy – Use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella.
- Thin out the sauce – Add a splash of milk if it gets too thick.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Loaded version – Top with crispy bacon bits and sour cream.
- Spicy kick – Add a pinch of cayenne or chopped jalapeños.
- Vegan-friendly – Use plant-based butter, milk, and cheese.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
- Grilled chicken or steak – A great protein to serve on the side.
- Crisp green salad – Lightens up the meal.
- Garlic bread – Because more carbs are always a good idea!
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Freezing: Freeze just the cheese sauce (not the baked potatoes) for best texture.
FAQs
- Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes! Just thaw and steam it before adding to the cheese sauce. - What’s the best cheese for this sauce?
Sharp cheddar works best, but you can mix in gouda or Monterey Jack. - Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in the fridge and reheat over low heat before serving. - Are there other potato options?
Yes! Try Yukon Golds for a creamier texture.
Conclusion
These cheesy baked potatoes with broccoli cheese sauce are everything you want in a comforting meal—crispy potatoes, rich cheese sauce, and tender broccoli in every bite. Whether you’re making them for dinner or a side dish, they’re guaranteed to be a favorite!
PrintCheesy Baked Potatoes with Broccoli Cheese Sauce – The Ultimate Comfort Food
These cheesy baked potatoes with broccoli cheese sauce are the ultimate comfort food! Crispy russet potatoes are baked to perfection and topped with a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce filled with tender broccoli florets. Whether served as a main course or a hearty side dish, this recipe is easy, satisfying, and perfect for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder (optional)
- 1/4 tsp paprika (optional)
- Olive oil (for rubbing potatoes)
- Salt (for seasoning potatoes)
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the russet potatoes clean and pat dry. Poke each potato several times with a fork.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt for crispy skin.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
- While the potatoes are baking, steam the broccoli florets until tender but still vibrant green. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
- In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
- Gradually whisk in milk, stirring continuously until smooth and slightly thickened.
- Reduce heat to low and add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika (if using).
- Stir in the steamed broccoli florets and mix well.
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Slice each baked potato open and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Generously spoon the broccoli cheese sauce over each potato.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispy potato skins, bake directly on the oven rack instead of a baking sheet.
- Add cooked bacon, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for extra flavor.
- If the cheese sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of milk to reach desired consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 loaded potato
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 55mg