Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes – Easy Vegetarian Dinner

These Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food—crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and smothered in a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce packed with tender broccoli florets.

It’s the kind of cozy, satisfying meal that feels indulgent but comes together with just a few wholesome ingredients.

Perfect for a quick vegetarian dinner, a hearty lunch, or a side dish that steals the spotlight, this stuffed baked potato recipe will become your new go-to whenever you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and comforting.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Crispy-skinned, fluffy baked potatoes – Oven-roasted to perfection

Velvety broccoli cheese sauce – Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful

Simple ingredients – Pantry staples + fresh broccoli

Hearty and filling – A complete vegetarian meal or side

Easy to customize – Add toppings or protein as desired

Perfect for meal prep – Bake potatoes ahead and reheat later

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Russet potatoes – High-starch potatoes with crispy skin and fluffy interior

Olive oil + kosher salt – For seasoning and crisping the skins

Cheddar cheese – Freshly grated for the smoothest melt

Butter + flour + milk – For a creamy homemade cheese sauce base

Broccoli florets – Finely chopped for easy stirring and even bites

Cayenne and garlic powder – Just a hint of spice and warmth

Chives or scallions – Optional garnish for a fresh finish

Black pepper – For seasoning to taste

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use russet potatoes – They bake up fluffy and hold their shape well

Grate your own cheese – Pre-shredded cheese can make the sauce grainy

Chop broccoli finely – So it softens quickly in the sauce

Don’t skip poking the potatoes – It prevents them from bursting in the oven

Bake directly on the rack (optional) – For extra crisp skins

How to Make Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 425°F (218°C).

Wash and scrub 2 large russet potatoes, then poke each a few times with a fork.

Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with kosher salt.

Place directly on a sheet pan and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until fork-tender and slightly puffed.

Let cool for 5 minutes before handling.

Step 2: Make the Broccoli Cheese Sauce

Start this step during the final 5–10 minutes of baking time.

In a small saucepan, melt 2 Tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat.

Whisk in 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour and cook for about 1 minute.

Gradually whisk in 1 cup milk until smooth.

Stir in ¼ tsp cayenne, ⅛–¼ tsp garlic powder, and ⅛–¼ tsp salt.

Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring until slightly thickened.

Lower heat and slowly add 5.5 oz freshly grated cheddar cheese, one handful at a time, whisking until fully melted.

Stir in 2 cups finely chopped broccoli florets, then remove from heat.

Step 3: Stuff and Serve

Slice each baked potato lengthwise and gently fluff the inside with a fork.

Season with black pepper and chopped chives or scallions, if desired.

Pour the warm broccoli cheese sauce over each potato generously.

Serve immediately while hot and melty.

What to Serve With Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Potatoes

Grilled chicken or steak – For a protein-packed meal

Simple green salad – To balance the richness

Roasted carrots or asparagus – Colorful and nutritious side

Garlic bread – Great for soaking up extra cheese sauce

Soup – Pair with tomato soup or veggie broth for a cozy combo

Variations & Substitutions

Add bacon bits or crumbled tempeh – For extra flavor and crunch

Swap in cauliflower – For a twist on the broccoli

Use different cheeses – Try smoked gouda, pepper jack, or fontina

Make it spicy – Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the cheese sauce

Turn it into a casserole – Scoop out potato flesh, mix with sauce, restuff, and bake

Storage & Reheating Tips

Fridge – Store stuffed potatoes in an airtight container up to 3 days

Reheat – Microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through

Make ahead – Bake potatoes in advance, then reheat and top with sauce just before serving

Freeze tip – Not recommended, as the sauce may separate

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
It’s best to use freshly grated cheese—pre-shredded may not melt smoothly.

Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw it first and chop finely before adding to the sauce.

Are these potatoes spicy?
Mildly! The cayenne adds gentle heat, which can be adjusted or omitted.

Can I make this vegan?
Yes, use plant-based milk, vegan butter, and vegan cheese.

Replace broccoli cheese sauce with your favorite vegan version.

How do I make the skins extra crispy?
Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack or rub with oil and salt before baking.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Medium or sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds bold flavor, but you can get creative!

Final Thoughts

These Broccoli Cheese Stuffed Baked Potatoes combine two of the best things in life—perfectly baked potatoes and silky, homemade broccoli cheddar sauce.

Whether you serve them as a satisfying main or an elevated side dish, they’re guaranteed to bring warmth, comfort, and smiles to your table.