Broccoli and Cheddar Potato Bake Recipe

 Few dishes bring the same level of comfort and satisfaction as a hearty, cheesy bake. This Broccoli and Cheddar Potato Bake combines creamy potatoes, vibrant broccoli, and gooey melted cheddar cheese to make the perfect side or even a main course. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner, a potluck, or a cozy night in, this dish guarantees smiles across the table. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and full of wholesome ingredients. Let's get cooking!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious bake:

• 4 medium-sized Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
• 2 cups fresh broccoli florets (you can also use frozen, thawed)
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ cups milk (whole, 2%, or unsweetened almond milk work well)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika (optional, for a smoky kick)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooking spray or butter (for greasing the baking dish)

Optional Toppings:

• ½ cup breadcrumbs for a crispy golden crust
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions

Step 1. Prep the Potatoes and Broccoli

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a medium-sized baking dish with cooking spray or butter and set it aside.
2. Boil the sliced potatoes in a large pot of salted water for about 8 minutes. You want them to be fork-tender but not fully cooked. Drain carefully and set them aside to cool slightly.
3. Blanch the broccoli by boiling it in water for 2-3 minutes, then immediately plunge it into an ice bath. This keeps the florets tender yet vibrant green.

Step 2. Make the Cheese Sauce

1. Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
2. Slowly pour in the milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Stir in garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Lower the heat and gradually mix in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until it’s melted and smooth. Remove from heat.

Step 3. Assemble the Bake

1. Arrange half the sliced potatoes in a single layer at the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Add a layer of broccoli florets, distributing them evenly.
3. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the potatoes and broccoli, spreading it out gently with the back of a spoon if needed.
4. Repeat the layers with the remaining potatoes, broccoli, and cheese sauce.
5. If you’re adding breadcrumbs, sprinkle them evenly over the top, followed by Parmesan if using.

Step 4. Bake to Perfection

1. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. This helps everything cook evenly without drying out.
2. Remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives before serving for a pop of color.

Tips for Customization

• Make it meaty: Add cooked, crumbled bacon or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
• Swap the cheese: While cheddar is classic, feel free to experiment with Gruyère, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of cheeses for a unique flavor.
• Go low-carb: Substitute the potatoes with slices of cauliflower for a lighter option without losing any creaminess.
• Vegan version: Use plant-based butter, unsweetened almond milk, and a dairy-free cheese alternative like nutritional yeast or vegan cheddar.

Serving Suggestions

This Broccoli and Cheddar Potato Bake pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad and warm crusty bread for a balanced meal. If serving as a side dish, it works well with roasted chicken, grilled steak, or even a glazed ham. Leftovers make for a fantastic lunch—just reheat in the oven or microwave until warm and bubbly.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bake perfectly balances comfort and nutrition with the fiber-packed goodness of broccoli and indulgent cheese. Plus, it’s an all-in-one dish that minimizes cleanup while maximizing taste. Whether you're serving this at a holiday feast or on a weeknight dinner table, it’s sure to become a family favorite in no time. Try it out, and don’t be surprised if people come back for seconds (or thirds)!