This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bake is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or as a crowd-pleasing side dish at family gatherings. Made with tender potatoes and broccoli florets in a creamy Parmesan and mozzarella cheese sauce, this bake is rich, flavorful, and satisfying. The herb-infused yogurt sauce adds a tangy, fresh layer that perfectly complements the dish’s creamy texture. It’s an excellent way to enjoy vegetables, with a cheesy twist that even kids will love!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Bake

• Broccoli: 1 head, cut into florets
• Potatoes: 500 g (17.6 oz), peeled and cubed
• Parmesan cheese: 40 g (1.4 oz), grated
• Butter: 55 g (2 tablespoons)
• Flour: 50 g (2 tablespoons)
• Milk: 500 ml (2 cups)
• Salt: to taste
• Nutmeg: 1/2 teaspoon
• Olive oil: for drizzling
• Mozzarella cheese: grated, as desired

For the Herb Yogurt Sauce

• Greek yogurt or sour cream: 2 tablespoons
• Mayonnaise: 1 tablespoon
• Garlic: 1 clove, minced
• Fresh dill: chopped, for garnish
• Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish

Steps to Make Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bake with Herb Yogurt Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for about 8 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the broccoli florets to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes. Drain both and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cheese Sauce

1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and whisk constantly for 1-2 minutes until it forms a smooth paste.
2. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer until it begins to thicken.
3. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and nutmeg. Continue to cook until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

1. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Place the cooked potatoes and broccoli evenly in the dish.
2. Pour the cheese sauce over the vegetables, making sure it coats everything evenly.
3. Top with a generous sprinkle of mozzarella cheese and drizzle with a bit of olive oil.

Step 4: Bake

1. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
2. Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Step 5: Prepare the Herb Yogurt Sauce

1. In a small bowl, combine the Greek yogurt (or sour cream), mayonnaise, minced garlic, chopped dill, and chopped parsley. Stir well until smooth.
2. Season with a pinch of salt, if desired.

Step 6: Serve

1. Serve the bake hot with a drizzle of the herb yogurt sauce on top or on the side for dipping.
2. Garnish with extra fresh herbs for added color and flavor.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbohydrates: 34 g
• Fat: 16 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Vitamin A: 18% of Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin C: 60% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on exact ingredient amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the Parmesan and mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, Gruyere, or gouda. Each cheese will bring a unique flavor to the bake.

2. Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch (use half the amount) when making the cheese sauce.

3. Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, both broccoli and potatoes can be substituted with frozen versions. Just ensure they’re thawed and drained before baking to avoid excess water in the dish.

4. Can I prepare this in advance?
You can assemble the dish and refrigerate it, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking. Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if starting from a cold dish.

5. How can I make this dish healthier?
You could use low-fat milk and cheese, and reduce the butter to make a lighter version. Adding other veggies, like spinach or cauliflower, also increases the nutritional value.

Tips for Making the Perfect Broccoli and Potato Bake

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh potatoes and broccoli for the best texture. They should be slightly tender but not overcooked before baking.
• Keep the Sauce Smooth: Whisk continuously while adding the milk to prevent lumps. If the sauce thickens too much, add a bit more milk until it reaches a pourable consistency.
• Customize with Extra Vegetables: This bake can include additional vegetables, such as carrots, cauliflower, or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill and parsley bring a bright flavor to the yogurt sauce. You can also use other herbs like basil or thyme if preferred.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
• Freezer: This bake can be frozen after baking. Allow it to cool completely, then cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: For best results, reheat in the oven to retain the cheesy texture. If microwaving, cover the dish to retain moisture.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Broccoli and Potato Bake with Herb Yogurt Sauce is a perfect choice for a comforting, nutritious meal or side dish. The creamy Parmesan sauce and melted mozzarella bring a satisfying richness, while the fresh herb yogurt sauce adds a delightful, tangy contrast. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it as a cozy family dinner, this bake is bound to become a favorite. Try it out for a wholesome, flavorful dish that celebrates simple ingredients and great taste!