Potato-Broccoli-Cheese Bake
A creamy, cheesy potato and broccoli bake with Swiss cheese and crispy bread crumbs, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp. butter or margarine ⓘ
- 2 Tbsp. all-purpose flour ⓘ
- 2 c. milk ⓘ
- 1 (3 oz.) pkg. cream cheese, cubed ⓘ
- 1/2 c. shredded Swiss cheese ⓘ
- 1 tsp. salt ⓘ
- 1/2 tsp. pepper ⓘ
- 1 (16 oz.) pkg. frozen shredded hash brown potatoes, thawed ⓘ
- 1 (10 oz.) pkg. chopped broccoli, cooked and drained ⓘ
- 1/2 c. dry bread crumbs ⓘ
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan over low heat; add flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually add milk; cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until thickened and bubbly.
- Add cream cheese, Swiss cheese, salt, and pepper; cook over low heat, stirring until cheese melts.
- Add thawed hash brown potatoes and stir well.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can substitute half of the milk with sour cream or Greek yogurt. If you prefer a different cheese, try using cheddar or Monterey Jack instead of Swiss. Make sure to thaw the hash browns completely for even cooking. Adding some diced onions or bell peppers can enhance the flavor of this dish. This recipe is a great way to use up leftover vegetables too.
Serving Suggestions
This Potato-Broccoli-Cheese Bake is delicious on its own but pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside grilled chicken or fish for added protein. For a comforting side dish, consider serving it with some warm Pam'S Rolls.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel, heating in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Alternatively, bake in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated thoroughly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Potato-Broccoli-Cheese Bake contains roughly 1188 calories, with 30g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (80% of the Daily Value), protein (61% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (46% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1653mg per serving (72% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli; just steam or blanch it briefly before adding to the bake. This will help retain its bright color and nutrients. Fresh broccoli may require a slightly shorter cooking time, so keep an eye on it during the baking process.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this Potato-Broccoli-Cheese Bake gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening. Ensure that the bread crumbs are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy a deliciously creamy dish without gluten.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or a dash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture. You can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before baking for a delightful crust. Herbs like thyme or rosemary can also elevate the taste of this hearty dish.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).