Description
This comforting Broccoli Cheddar Potatoes recipe features tender boiled potatoes and broccoli florets smothered in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, then baked until bubbly and golden. Perfect as a hearty side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main, this dish combines simple ingredients for a delightful blend of flavors and textures in just 45 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Vegetables
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 cups broccoli florets
Dairy
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons butter
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the potato casserole.
- Prepare Potatoes: Peel and cube the potatoes evenly to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- Boil Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a pot of salted boiling water and cook until they become tender, which usually takes about 10-15 minutes.
- Add Broccoli: Add the broccoli florets to the boiling potatoes during the last 3 minutes of cooking so they soften but retain some crunch and freshness.
- Drain Vegetables: Drain the potatoes and broccoli thoroughly to remove excess water and prevent a soggy dish.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a separate pot, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until combined and heated through.
- Incorporate Cheese: Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese into the warm milk mixture until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Combine Vegetables and Sauce: Add the drained potato and broccoli mixture into the cheese sauce and mix thoroughly to coat all pieces.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the combined mixture into a baking dish, spreading evenly for uniform baking.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the dish is bubbly and develops a golden crust on top.
Notes
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for a more pronounced cheesy flavor.
- For a lighter dish, reduce the butter to 1 tablespoon or use low-fat milk.
- You can add garlic powder or onion powder for extra flavor.
- Make sure to drain the vegetables well to avoid a watery casserole.
- This dish can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
