Ingredients
Potatoes
- 4 medium russet potatoes
Broccoli & Cheese Filling
- 1 cup fresh broccoli florets
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes.
- Prepare Potatoes: Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly and poke holes in them using a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Bake Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-50 minutes until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
- Steam Broccoli: While the potatoes bake, steam the broccoli florets until they are tender but still bright green, about 5-7 minutes.
- Cool and Scoop: Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly so they are safe to handle. Then, slice each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving the skins intact.
- Mash Potato Filling: Mash the scooped potato flesh with butter, sour cream, and milk. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste for a creamy and flavorful base.
- Add Broccoli & Cheese: Gently fold the steamed broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese into the mashed potato mixture until evenly combined.
- Stuff Potatoes: Spoon the broccoli and cheese potato mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins. Top each stuffed potato with a little extra shredded cheddar cheese for a melted, golden crust.
- Bake Again: Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese on top is melted and slightly golden.
- Serve: Serve the twice baked potatoes hot as a satisfying side dish or light meal. Enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Additional serving suggestions: pair with a crisp salad, garlic bread, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- For make-ahead preparation, assemble the filling and scoop the potatoes separately. Store components separately and assemble the potatoes just before reheating to maintain texture and freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 65 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian