Stuffed Broccoli and Cheese Potatoes are a delightful combination of crispy baked potatoes filled with a vibrant, nutritious broccoli spread and topped with melty cheese. This dish encapsulates everything that comfort food stands for—rich flavors, a satisfying crunch, and a hearty filling that leaves you wanting more. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or as an impressive side dish. The contrast between the crispy potato skins and the creamy, garlicky broccoli filling, finished with melted mozzarella, makes this dish a timeless classic that has been adapted in countless ways around the world. Not only is it visually appealing with its vibrant green and golden hues, but it also packs a punch in the nutrition department, being a source of fiber, vitamins, and protein.

Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian main course or a side dish that stands out, these stuffed potatoes will meet your expectations. This recipe takes some classic elements and elevates them, incorporating simple ingredients to create a complex-tasting, yet simple-to-make dish. Let’s dive into the magic of making Stuffed Broccoli and Cheese Potatoes.

Ingredients

• Main Ingredients:
  • 1 large potato (or 2 medium-sized)
  • 300 g fresh broccoli florets
  • 1 cup fresh strawberries, quartered (for garnishing or optional side)
• Flavoring and Seasoning:
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 sprigs of fresh basil (can use a mix of green and purple)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ¼ teaspoon ground coriander
  • ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
• Additional Components:
  • 30 g walnuts
  • 2 teaspoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or your preferred oil)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
• For Topping:
  • Mozzarella cheese (or your favorite melting cheese)

Steps to Make It

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 2-4
Calories: Approximately 320 kcal per serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat and Prepare:
   • Preheat your oven or air fryer to 185°C (365°F). If using an air fryer, set it to “Bake” mode if applicable.
2. Prepare the Potato:
   • Wash and peel the potato. Use a fork to pierce it a few times around the surface. This helps release steam during baking, ensuring the interior cooks evenly.
   • Mix smoked paprika, coriander, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Add 1 teaspoon of oil and stir well.
   • Coat the potato evenly with this spice mixture.
   • Place the potato in the preheated oven or air fryer and bake for 45 minutes.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
   • In a pot, bring 1 liter of water to a boil and add a pinch of salt.
   • Add the 300 g of broccoli florets and blanch for 3 minutes.
   • Quickly transfer the blanched broccoli to a bowl filled with ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve the bright green color.
4. Prepare the Broccoli Filling:
   • In a mixing bowl or food processor, combine the cooled broccoli, minced garlic, chopped basil, walnuts, lemon juice, 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is coarse (adjust texture to your liking; it can be left chunkier or blended smoother).
5. Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes:
   • Remove the baked potatoes from the oven. Let them cool slightly before handling.
   • Gently cut a slit on top of each potato and push the ends inward to open the potato slightly. Use a fork to fluff up the inside.
   • Spoon the broccoli filling generously over the top.
   • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the broccoli filling.
6. Final Bake:
   • Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven or air fryer and bake for an additional 5 minutes at 200°C (392°F) or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.
7. Serving:
   • Serve hot, garnished with a few extra basil leaves or a drizzle of lemon juice for added zest.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

This recipe is timeless because it celebrates the natural flavors of simple, fresh ingredients combined in an innovative way. Stuffed potatoes have been enjoyed for generations across various cuisines due to their flexibility, comfort factor, and ability to be adapted with different fillings. The addition of broccoli adds a nutritional boost, while cheese brings a creamy texture and rich taste. It’s a dish that bridges the gap between healthy and indulgent, perfect for a variety of dietary preferences. Moreover, this stuffed potato recipe is versatile enough to be served as a main course or an accompaniment.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 10 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 6 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Cholesterol: 20 mg
• Sodium: 340 mg
• Vitamin C: 75% DV
• Calcium: 12% DV
• Iron: 10% DV

FAQs

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the broccoli filling and bake the potatoes in advance. Assemble and bake with cheese just before serving.
2. What other toppings can I use? Try adding chopped scallions, a sprinkle of Parmesan, or a dash of hot sauce for extra flavor.
3. Can I make this recipe vegan? Replace the cheese with a vegan alternative, and ensure your oil and other ingredients align with vegan dietary preferences.

Tips for Making

• For an extra crispy potato skin, brush the potatoes with a bit of oil before baking.
• If you don’t have fresh basil, dried basil or parsley will work as well.
• Use a fork or potato masher to slightly mix the broccoli filling for a varied texture.

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in an oven or air fryer at 180°C (350°F) for 10-15 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the potato soggy and the cheese rubbery.

Conclusion

Stuffed Broccoli and Cheese Potatoes offer a delightful balance of flavors, showcasing how simple, fresh ingredients can create an impressive, delicious dish. This recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes, the earthy taste of broccoli, the crunch of walnuts, and the indulgence of melted cheese. Perfect as a main or a hearty side, it appeals to all ages and occasions. Make this dish your go-to for family gatherings, weekday dinners, or anytime you crave something warm, filling, and nutritious.