Broccoli-Cheddar Loaded Baked Potatoes

### 🥔 **Broccoli-Cheddar Loaded Baked Potatoes** 🥦🧀

These **Broccoli-Cheddar Loaded Baked Potatoes** are a deliciously hearty and nutritious meal that combines the comforting flavors of baked potatoes with the goodness of broccoli and the rich, creamy texture of cheddar cheese. Perfect as a main dish or a side, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

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### **Ingredients:**

– **4 large russet potatoes** 🥔
– The starchy texture of russet potatoes makes them perfect for baking.

– **1 cup broccoli florets** 🥦
– Fresh or frozen broccoli works well; just make sure to steam until tender.

– **1 cup shredded cheddar cheese** 🧀
– Choose sharp cheddar for a more robust flavor.

– **1/2 cup sour cream** 🍶
– Adds creaminess and tanginess to the filling.

– **2 tablespoons butter** 🧈
– Enhances the flavor and richness of the filling.

– **Salt and pepper** (to taste) 🧂
– Essential for seasoning the potatoes and filling.

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### **Instructions:**

#### 1. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Start by preheating your oven to **400°F (200°C)**. This ensures that the potatoes cook evenly and thoroughly.

#### 2. **Prepare the Potatoes:**
– Wash the **russet potatoes** thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt.
– Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

#### 3. **Bake the Potatoes:**
– Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet.
– Bake for about **1 hour**, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.

#### 4. **Steam the Broccoli:**
– While the potatoes are baking, prepare the broccoli.
– Steam the **broccoli florets** in a steamer basket over boiling water for about **5-7 minutes**, or until they are bright green and tender. Set aside.

#### 5. **Prepare the Filling:**
– Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
– Carefully cut each potato open lengthwise and scoop out the flesh into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer of potato inside the skin.

#### 6. **Mix the Ingredients:**
– To the potato flesh, add the **butter**, **sour cream**, **salt**, and **pepper**. Mix until creamy and well combined.
– Fold in the steamed broccoli and half of the **shredded cheddar cheese** until evenly distributed.

#### 7. **Stuff the Potatoes:**
– Spoon the broccoli-cheddar mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins, packing them gently.

#### 8. **Top and Bake Again:**
– Sprinkle the remaining **cheddar cheese** on top of each stuffed potato.
– Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional **10 minutes**, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

#### 9. **Serve:**
– Once done, remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
– Garnish with extra sour cream or fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy your delicious loaded baked potatoes!

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### **Prep & Nutritional Info:**

– **Prep Time:** 10 minutes
– **Total Time:** 1 hour 20 minutes
– **Servings:** 4
– **Calories:** Approximately 400 kcal per serving (calories may vary based on specific ingredients).

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### **Tips for Success:**

– **Choose the Right Potatoes:** For best results, use large russet potatoes, as they have the ideal texture for baking and stuffing.
– **Customize Your Filling:** Feel free to add other ingredients like cooked bacon, diced onions, or different cheese varieties for extra flavor.
– **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to bake the potatoes.
– **Storage:** Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

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### **Final Thoughts:**

These **Broccoli-Cheddar Loaded Baked Potatoes** are a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthy twist. With the combination of fluffy potato, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious! Serve them as a main dish or alongside your favorite protein for a complete meal that everyone will love. 🥔🥦🧀 Enjoy!