Broccoli & Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes

### **Instructions:**

#### 1. **Bake the Potatoes:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Scrub the russet potatoes clean and pierce them with a fork a few times. This will help release steam as they cook.
– Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt and pepper.
– Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
– Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes.

#### 2. **Prepare the Broccoli:**
– While the potatoes are baking, steam the broccoli florets. You can do this by placing them in a microwave-safe dish with a splash of water and microwaving for 2-3 minutes, or by steaming them on the stovetop until they are tender. Once cooked, chop the broccoli into small pieces.
– If you’re using frozen broccoli, be sure to thaw it and drain any excess water before using.

#### 3. **Make the Cheddar Filling:**
– Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the inside of each potato, leaving a small border around the edges. Be sure not to tear the skin.
– Place the scooped-out potato flesh into a large mixing bowl and mash it until smooth and fluffy.
– Add the sour cream, milk (or heavy cream), garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste. Mix everything together until the filling is smooth and creamy.
– Stir in the chopped broccoli and shredded cheddar cheese, reserving some cheese for topping.

#### 4. **Stuff the Potatoes:**
– Carefully spoon the broccoli and cheddar mixture back into the potato skins. Be generous with the filling, packing it in so each potato is fully loaded with cheesy, broccoli goodness.
– Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top of each stuffed potato.

#### 5. **Bake Again:**
– Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are heated through.

#### 6. **Garnish and Serve:**
– Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
– Garnish with freshly chopped chives or green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
– Serve immediately and enjoy your deliciously stuffed potatoes!

### **Tips:**
– **Make Ahead:** You can prepare the potatoes and the filling in advance. Simply bake the potatoes, scoop out the flesh, and prepare the broccoli and cheese filling. Store everything in the fridge for up to 2 days, then stuff and bake when you’re ready to eat.
– **Customize the Filling:** Add cooked bacon bits, sautéed onions, or shredded chicken for added flavor and protein. You can also swap the broccoli for other vegetables, like spinach, cauliflower, or bell peppers.
– **Dairy-Free Option:** For a dairy-free version, substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese and use plant-based sour cream and milk alternatives.

### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**
– **Comforting and Hearty:** The creamy mashed potato filling, combined with the cheesy goodness and nutritious broccoli, makes this dish the ultimate comfort food.
– **Healthy & Nutritious:** With the addition of broccoli, these stuffed potatoes offer a dose of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a more balanced meal.
– **Versatile:** You can make these potatoes as simple or as loaded as you like by adding extra toppings or ingredients like bacon, chicken, or even a drizzle of ranch dressing.
– **Easy to Prepare:** With minimal prep and cook time, this recipe is a perfect weeknight meal or a great side dish for a family dinner.

### **Conclusion:**
**Broccoli & Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes** are the ideal comfort food that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, fresh broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese creates a dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. Whether served as a main dish or as a side to complement your favorite protein, this recipe is guaranteed to please everyone at the table. Give it a try today and enjoy a comforting meal that’s full of cheesy, broccoli-filled goodness!