Description
Cheesy Potato and Broccoli Bake is a comforting and hearty oven-baked dish featuring tender potatoes, fresh broccoli florets, and a rich, creamy cheddar cheese sauce. Perfect as a family-friendly side dish or a satisfying vegetarian main course, this recipe blends simple ingredients with classic flavors to create a flavorful and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
- 3 cups broccoli florets
Cheese Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups milk
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Parboil Potatoes: Place the thinly sliced potatoes in salted boiling water and parboil for 5–7 minutes until they are just tender but still firm. Drain well to remove excess water.
- Steam Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 2–3 minutes until bright green and slightly softened. Drain thoroughly to avoid adding moisture to the bake.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux, then gradually whisk in the milk. Continue cooking, whisking constantly, until the sauce thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Seasoning: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder until the cheese melts completely and the sauce is smooth.
- Layer Vegetables: Spread an even layer of parboiled potatoes in the prepared baking dish, then layer the steamed broccoli evenly on top.
- Assemble Bake: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the layered vegetables, spreading it gently to cover all the potatoes and broccoli.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30–35 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the top is lightly golden.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and cool slightly for easier portioning.
Notes
- Slice potatoes thinly for even cooking and a uniform texture.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese for the best rich and tangy flavor.
- Optional: sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking for a crispy, crunchy topping.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American