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Easy Broccoli Cheddar Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

Broccoli and Cheddar Twice-Baked Potatoes: A Comfort Food Classic

⚖️
Difficulty
Easy

⏲️
Prep Time
15 mins

🕒
Cook Time
75 mins

⏱️
Total Time
90 mins

🍽
Servings
4

Broccoli and Cheddar Twice-Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy, cheesy goodness with the wholesome crunch of broccoli. This dish is perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or even a cozy night in. The rich flavors of sharp cheddar meld beautifully with the earthy notes of broccoli, all nestled inside a fluffy baked potato shell. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and sure to impress.

These twice-baked potatoes are not only delicious but also versatile. They can serve as a hearty side dish or a satisfying main course. The process of baking the potatoes twice ensures a crispy exterior and a creamy, flavorful interior. Plus, the addition of broccoli adds a nutritious boost, making this dish a balanced option for any meal. Let’s dive into the details of this crowd-pleasing recipe!

Quick Recipe Highlights

  • Flavor Profile: A perfect blend of creamy cheddar, savory potato, and fresh broccoli.
  • Texture: Crispy on the outside, creamy and fluffy on the inside with a slight crunch from the broccoli.
  • Aroma: The rich, cheesy aroma will fill your kitchen, making everyone eager to dig in.
  • Visual Appeal: Golden-brown tops with vibrant green broccoli flecks make this dish visually stunning.
  • Skill Level Needed: Beginner-friendly with simple steps and minimal techniques.
  • Special Equipment: Baking sheet, mixing bowl, and a fork for fluffing the potatoes.

Recipe Overview

  • Difficulty Level: This recipe is easy to follow, requiring basic cooking skills like baking and mixing.
  • Category: Side dish or main course, perfect for comfort food lovers.
  • Cuisine: American, with a focus on hearty, home-cooked meals.
  • Cost: Budget-friendly, using affordable ingredients like potatoes, broccoli, and cheddar.
  • Season: Ideal for fall and winter, but can be enjoyed year-round.
  • Occasion: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday feasts.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The combination of creamy cheddar and fresh broccoli creates a flavor explosion that’s hard to resist. The texture contrast between the crispy potato skin and the fluffy filling is simply divine. This dish is also incredibly versatile, making it suitable for various occasions and dietary preferences.

From a convenience standpoint, this recipe is a winner. Most of the cooking time is hands-off, allowing you to prepare other dishes or relax while the potatoes bake. The ingredients are easy to find and affordable, making this a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Nutritionally, these twice-baked potatoes are a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Broccoli is packed with vitamins and fiber, while the potatoes provide a good source of carbohydrates and potassium. The cheddar adds a dose of calcium and protein, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.

Socially, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or bringing a dish to a potluck, these potatoes are sure to be a hit. They’re easy to scale up for larger groups and can be customized to suit different tastes.

Finally, this recipe is cost-effective. Potatoes, broccoli, and cheddar are all budget-friendly ingredients, making this dish accessible to everyone. You can even use leftover ingredients to create a new meal, reducing food waste and saving money.

The Recipe

Broccoli and Cheddar Twice-Baked Potatoes

Serves: 4

Prep Time: 15 mins

Cook Time: 75 mins

Total Time: 90 mins

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Baking sheet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork
  • Knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, chopped
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them several times with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
  2. While the potatoes bake, steam the broccoli florets until tender, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
  3. Once the potatoes are done, let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer inside the skin.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine the potato flesh, sour cream, milk, butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
  5. Fold in the steamed broccoli and half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix well.
  6. Spoon the mixture back into the potato skins. Top with the remaining cheddar cheese.
  7. Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  8. Serve warm and enjoy!

Recipe Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream and use low-fat cheddar cheese.
  • Add cooked bacon bits for a smoky flavor.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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