Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with these irresistible Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes. A delightful twist on the classic loaded baked potatoes, these gems are packed with creamy goodness, hearty veggies, and a generous blanket of golden, melted cheese. When you crave a cozy dinner option or seek a crowd-pleasing side dish, these twice-baked delights will never disappoint.

The first time I whipped up these Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes on a chilly evening, they became an instant family favorite. The gooey cheese, velvety filling, and vibrant broccoli florets make each bite a heavenly experience. Since that day, I’ve always made sure to prepare a double batch to satisfy everyone’s cravings and secure those coveted leftovers for the next day.

Broccoli takes the spotlight in this recipe, not only adding a pop of color but also boosting the dish’s nutritional value. A versatile and delicious veggie, broccoli pairs perfectly with the creamy filling and oozy cheese, making it a must-have ingredient in this heartwarming recipe. Whether you serve these Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes as a main course or as a side dish to your favorite protein, they are guaranteed to steal the show with their comforting flavors and satisfying textures.

Quick Benefits

• Nutritious Twist: Packed with broccoli and Greek yogurt, these potatoes offer a tasty way to sneak in more veggies and protein.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare them in advance and freeze for a quick meal option or cook from refrigerated state for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Flavors: Experiment with different cheese options, add-ins like chicken or spinach, and swap ingredients to customize to your taste preferences.
• Family Favorite: A comforting dish that satisfies both kids and adults, making it a go-to recipe for gatherings or cozy family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes Recipe

• Comfort Food with a Twist: This recipe combines the classic comfort of loaded baked potatoes with the added goodness of broccoli, creating a cozy and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy.
• Cheesy and Gooey: The generous amount of melted cheddar cheese in these potatoes adds a rich and indulgent flavor that perfectly complements the creamy filling.
• Family Favorite: The recipe is a hit with families, making it perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings where you want a dish that everyone will love.
• Nutritious Twist: By adding broccoli to the potatoes, you’re sneaking in some extra veggies without compromising on taste, making it a great way to get some nutrients in a delicious way.
• Versatile Options: The recipe offers various options for customization, such as swapping ingredients like Greek yogurt for sour cream or trying different cheeses and fillings, allowing you to tailor the dish to your preferences.
• Make-ahead Convenience: You can prep the potatoes in advance, refrigerate them, and then bake them when you’re ready to serve, making them a convenient option for busy days or entertaining.
• Freezer-friendly: The potatoes freeze well, allowing you to make a batch ahead of time and have a delicious meal or side dish ready to go whenever you need it.
• Nostalgic Vibes: The recipe is reminiscent of classic family dinners and potluck favorites, making it a comforting and nostalgic dish that brings people together.
• Perfect for Entertaining: Whether you serve them as a main dish or a side alongside grilled proteins, these potatoes are a crowd-pleaser that can be dressed up for a party or enjoyed for a casual meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes

Potatoes

• 4 medium russet potatoes, washed and dried
• 1 teaspoon olive oil

Dairy and Substitutes

• 1/2 cup non-fat Greek yogurt
• 3 1/2 tablespoons salted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup buttermilk

Seasonings

• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon dried dill weed
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon dried onion flakes
• 3/4 teaspoon dried chives

Vegetables

• 1 1/2 cups cooked broccoli, chopped

Cheese

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided

Pro Tips for Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes

Pro Tip 1: To ensure crispy skins, rub the baked potatoes with olive oil before the second bake and consider using parchment paper for even crisping. This will give your dish a delightful crunch with every bite.

Pro Tip 2: Experiment with different cheese varieties like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend to add varied flavors and unique melting qualities to your twice-baked cheesy broccoli potatoes. This can elevate the dish and keep it exciting for your taste buds.

Pro Tip 3: For a convenient meal prep approach, prepare and fill the potatoes ahead of time, refrigerate them, and then bake them when you are ready to serve. This can save you time and make dinnertime a breeze. Additionally, feel free to customize the recipe by adding chopped spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers to suit your preferences.

How to Make Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Preheat the oven to 200°C and line a baking tray with parchment paper.

Step 2: Bake Potatoes

Place the potatoes in a baking dish and bake for 60 minutes or until they are easily pierced with a fork. Let them cool after removing from the oven.

Step 3: Prepare Potato Skins and Mash Pulp

After the potatoes have cooled, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer attached to the skins. Rub the outside of each potato skin with olive oil and place them on the baking tray.

Step 4: Mix the Filling

Mix softened butter with mashed potato flesh. Add Greek yogurt, buttermilk, salt, pepper, chives, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion flakes, dill weed, paprika, half of the chopped broccoli, and 3/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese. Blend until fully combined.

Step 5: Stuff and Bake

Divide the filling evenly among the potato skins. Sprinkle with remaining broccoli and cheddar cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cheese is melted and potatoes are heated through.

Step 6: Serve

Serve the potatoes on plates and enjoy them while still warm.

Storage Tips

To store the finished Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes, wrap any leftovers tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These can be stored for up to three days. When reheating, it’s recommended to use the oven at 350°F to ensure the skins stay crispy and the flavors meld well. For longer storage, the potatoes can be frozen by wrapping each cooled baked potato in foil and freezing for up to two months.

If you want to enhance the flavor or adjust the ingredients, consider swapping the Greek yogurt for sour cream for a richer taste. You can also experiment with different melting cheeses like Monterey Jack or Colby Jack. To vary the filling, you can add shredded rotisserie chicken or try chopped spinach instead of broccoli. Remember that these potatoes can also be served as a vegetarian main dish or as a side alongside grilled chicken or steak, making them a versatile and comforting option for any meal.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a creamier texture, you can substitute Greek yogurt with sour cream in the recipe. Sour cream will provide a richer taste to the filling. Additionally, if you prefer a different type of cheese or want to experiment with flavors, feel free to swap the cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or mozzarella. These cheeses will also melt well and add their unique taste to the dish.

If you want to vary the vegetables in the recipe, consider using chopped spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers instead of broccoli. These vegetables can add different flavors and textures to the filling while still providing a nutritious boost. Preparing the potatoes in advance by filling them, refrigerating, and baking them when ready to serve can save time and make dinner preparation more convenient. Remember to reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350°F to ensure that the potatoes stay crispy and the flavors are preserved.

Serving Suggestions

For a fun twist on serving these Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes, try creating a potato bar at your next gathering. Set out a variety of toppings like crispy bacon bits, diced avocado, sliced green onions, and a dollop of sour cream for guests to customize their own loaded potato creation. The interactive aspect adds a fun element to mealtime and allows everyone to tailor their dish to their liking.

Another creative serving suggestion is to turn these cheesy broccoli potatoes into a handheld appetizer by scooping out the filling and mixing it with some extra cheese to create a creamy dip. Serve the dip alongside crispy potato skins, vegetable sticks, and crackers for a delicious and crowd-pleasing snack that is perfect for parties or game day gatherings. The combination of cheesy goodness and hearty potatoes will make this appetizer a hit with everyone!

FAQs for Cheesy Broccoli Twice-Baked Potatoes

Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?

Yes, you can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a cheese blend for varied flavor and melt.

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare and fill the potatoes, refrigerate them, and then bake when ready to serve for convenience.

How should I reheat the leftovers?

Reheat the leftovers in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to preserve the texture and flavor.

What other vegetables can I add or substitute in this recipe?

You can add or swap chopped spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers with the broccoli as desired to customize the filling.

Conclusion

Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes are truly a comforting and satisfying dish that never fails to impress. The golden crispy skins, creamy filling, and the generous amount of gooey melted cheese make this recipe a winner every time. Whether you’re serving them for a cozy family dinner or sharing them at a potluck, these potatoes are sure to be a hit.

Don’t be afraid to get creative with your variations and toppings to make these Twice-Baked Cheesy Broccoli Potatoes your own. From swapping out the type of cheese to adding in different veggies or proteins, the possibilities are endless. So, gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy the deliciousness of these flavorful and hearty potatoes. Bon appétit!