Are you ready to transform a simple potato into a culinary masterpiece that will have everyone at the dinner table begging for seconds? Our Baked Potatoes with Broccoli recipe is not just a meal—it's an experience that combines crispy potato skins, fluffy interiors, and vibrant broccoli topped with melted cheese. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive side dish that requires minimal effort, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 large baking potatoes
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cool running water, scrubbing the skin to remove any dirt.
- Pat the potatoes dry with a clean kitchen towel. Using a fork, poke several holes around each potato to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub the potato skins with a light coating of olive oil and sprinkle with salt. This will help create a crispy exterior.
- Place the potatoes directly on the middle oven rack and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes. The potatoes are done when they feel soft when gently squeezed and the internal temperature reaches 210°F (99°C).
- During the last 10 minutes of potato baking, steam the broccoli florets in a separate pot or steamer until they are bright green and tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
- Remove the potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Carefully slice each potato open lengthwise using a sharp knife.
- Fluff the inner potato flesh with a fork, then top each potato with steamed broccoli florets.
- Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the hot broccoli, allowing it to melt slightly.
- Add a dollop of sour cream on top of each potato. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately while the potatoes are hot and the cheese is melted, enjoying the combination of crispy potato skin, fluffy interior, and fresh broccoli.
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Always select large, uniform baking potatoes like Russet for the best texture and even cooking.
- Olive Oil Trick: Rubbing the potato skins with olive oil ensures a crispy, golden exterior that's irresistibly crunchy.
- Potato Piercing is Crucial: Don't skip poking holes in the potatoes—this prevents them from potentially exploding in the oven and helps steam escape.
- Cheese Melting Hack: For perfectly melted cheese, sprinkle it over the hot broccoli immediately after removing from the oven to help it melt naturally.
- Timing is Everything: Steam your broccoli during the last 10 minutes of potato baking to ensure everything is hot and ready simultaneously.
- Temperature Check: Use a meat thermometer to confirm your potatoes have reached the ideal internal temperature of 210°F for perfect doneness.
- Customize Your Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add crispy bacon bits for extra flavor!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
