The baked potatoes get sliced in half, baked in the oven and then loaded with bacon, broccoli and homemade cheese sauce. A super, easy family favorite dish on your table in 30 minutes.
Loaded baked potatoes are a very popular in our house. I mean, who doesn’t love bacon, broccoli, and cheese stuffed in a baked potato? It’s a glorious combination we just can’t get enough of. It’s also an easy dinner option to feed the family or to feed a crowd. I’d like to know if there’s one person out there who hasn’t had a baked potato bar at a family reunion, girls’ camp, scout camp, church function, etc. You get the point! Cheesy baked potatoes just make people happy!
What Do I Need to Make Baked Potatoes?
One of the best things about baked potatoes is that they only take 4 ingredients to make, and they are failproof! Here is what you will need for the potatoes:
- Russet Potatoes – wash them well, and slice them half
- Olive Oil – rub it all over the potatoes, this helps them get so nice and crispy
- Salt and Pepper – adds flavor
Ingredients for Homemade Cheese Sauce
You won’t believe how simple it is to make cheese sauce at home. The ingredients for the base sauce are most likely items you already have at home and the things you add to it are totally up to you…though broccoli and bacon are a dream team with this cheese sauce! Here is what you will need:
- Whole Milk – it has to be whole milk, don’t use any other type of milk
- Butter – unsalted, adds flavor and richness
- Flour – just simple all-purpose works great
- Sharp Cheddar Cheese – sharp cheddar adds that bold cheesy flavor that shines in this sauce
- Hot Sauce – adds a just a hint of heat and flavor you don’t want to miss
- Cayenne Pepper – feel free to add more if you want the cheese to be more spicy
- Broccoli – steamed and chopped into very small pieces
- Bacon – cooked until crispy and chopped into small bits
- Salt and Pepper – add flavor
The measurements for each ingredient and instructions for making this recipe can all be found in the recipe card at the end of the post.
What Potatoes Are Best For Baking?
Starchy potatoes such as Russet and sweet potatoes are best for baking or roasting. They work the best for the dry heat of an oven and end up with a fluffy c