If you're craving something warm and satisfying, look no further than the Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato! This delicious dish features a soft and fluffy baked potato, stuffed with a savory blend of broccoli and gooey melted cheese. At just 220 calories per serving, this is one indulgence you can feel good about.
Not only is the Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato full of flavor, it's also packed with nutrients. Broccoli provides plenty of vitamins and minerals, while the cheese adds a dose of calcium and protein. And with just a few simple ingredients, it's easy to make at home!
In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know to make a delicious Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato of your own.
What is Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is a popular comfort food dish that features a baked potato that is cut open and stuffed with a blend of steamed broccoli and melted cheese. The potato is usually baked until it is soft and fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The filling is then blended and seasoned with various spices to create a savory and satisfying flavor. Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is typically served as an entrée or side dish and is a popular choice among vegetarians and health-conscious eaters due to its high nutrient content.
Ingredients of Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato
To make Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 large baking potatoes
- 1 head of broccoli, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
You can also add other spices or seasonings to taste, such as garlic powder or paprika.
How to make Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
To make Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato, follow these simple steps:
- Poke each potato a few times with a fork and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for 45-60 minutes, until soft.
- Microwave the chopped broccoli in a covered dish for 4-5 minutes, until tender.
- Cut a slit in the top of each potato and scoop out the inside, leaving a thin layer of potato in the skin.
- Mash the potato pulp with the broccoli, cheese, butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Stuff the mixture back into the potato skins and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until heated through and the cheese is melted.
Serve hot and enjoy!
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is not only delicious, it's also packed with nutrients.
- Serving size: 1 stuffed potato (226 g)
- calories: 220
- Total fat: 10 g
- Saturated fat: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 30 mg
- Sodium: 310 mg
- Total carbohydrates: 24 g
- Dietary fiber: 4 g
- Sugar: 3 g
- Protein: 8 g
In addition to providing a good source of fiber and protein, Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is also rich in vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin C, and potassium.
Taste and texture of Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is a perfect combination of soft and fluffy potato and a creamy, cheesy filling with a slightly crunchy texture from the broccoli. The potato skin adds a nice contrasting texture and a slightly earthy flavor to the dish. The cheese makes the filling extra rich and satisfying, while the broccoli provides a fresh and slightly bitter flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly. Overall, Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is a warm and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly autumn or winter evening.
How to serve Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is a versatile dish that can be served as an entrée or a side dish. It pairs well with a variety of vegetables, such as roasted Brussels sprouts or sautéed spinach, and can also be served with a simple side salad or on its own as a filling and satisfying meal. If you're serving it as a side dish, consider pairing it with a protein such as grilled chicken or fish to make a balanced and complete meal.
Health benefits of Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is a healthy and nutritious dish that provides a variety of vitamins and minerals. Broccoli is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate, and is also high in fiber and antioxidants. Potatoes are a great source of potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber, while cheese provides calcium and protein. While this dish is relatively high in calories and fat, it can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation and paired with healthy side dishes.
Variations of Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato
There are many ways to customize Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can try using different types of cheese such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Gouda for a different flavor. You can also add other vegetables to the filling, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach. If you're looking to reduce the calorie or fat content of the dish, you can try using low-fat or skim milk, reducing the amount of cheese, or using a lower-fat cheese such as feta or goat cheese.
Storage and reheating of Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days in an airtight container. To reheat, simply place the potato in the microwave or oven and heat until warmed through. You can also freeze the stuffed potatoes for up to three months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. For best results, store the filling and potatoes separately and assemble just before reheating.
Where to buy Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is not commonly found in restaurants or grocery stores, but it's easy to make at home using simple ingredients. You can find all of the ingredients you need at most grocery stores, and the recipe is simple enough for even novice chefs to make.
Frequently Asked Questions About Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato
1. What is a Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
A Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato is a baked potato that has been hollowed out and stuffed with a mixture of steamed broccoli florets and melted cheese. It is a delicious and filling side dish or snack option.
2. How many calories are in a Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
A Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato contains approximately 220 calories per serving, which is one stuffed potato that weighs 226g.
3. Is a Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato healthy?
A Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato can be a healthy option if you choose the right ingredients and portion sizes. Broccoli is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while potatoes are a good source of complex carbohydrates. However, the type and amount of cheese used can significantly impact the overall nutrition profile of the dish.
4. How do you make a Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato?
To make a Broccoli & Cheese Stuffed Potato, you will need to bake a potato in the oven until it is tender. Once the potato has cooled, use a spoon to scoop out the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell. Mash the potato flesh with steamed broccoli florets and shredded cheese. Stuff the mixture back into the potato shell and bake until heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. What are some other variations of stuffed potatoes?
There are many different types of stuffed potatoes that you can try, such as chili-loaded baked potatoes, bacon and cheddar stuffed potatoes, or spinach and artichoke stuffed potatoes. You can also experiment with different types of vegetables, cheeses, and seasonings to create your own unique stuffed potato recipe.