Description
This comforting casserole combines the beloved flavors of a loaded baked potato with tender chicken and fresh broccoli in a creamy, cheesy sauce, making it a perfect hearty meal for any night.
Ingredients
4 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch cubes
2 cups cooked chicken, diced or shredded
3 cups fresh broccoli florets
1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
2 1/2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
1/4 tsp black pepper, or to taste
2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided
1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Par-cook the diced potatoes. Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until tender-crisp but not fully soft. Drain well.
Step 3: In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a light roux forms.
Step 4: Gradually whisk in the milk until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce begins to thicken.
Step 5: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese and all of the Monterey Jack cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Step 6: In the prepared baking dish, combine the par-cooked potatoes, diced chicken, and broccoli florets.
Step 7: Pour the creamy cheese sauce over the potato mixture and stir gently to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Step 8: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole.
Step 9: Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the casserole is hot, bubbly, and the cheese on top is golden brown. Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
For extra crispiness and a fun texture, consider sprinkling a handful of crushed potato chips or breadcrumbs over the top during the last 10 minutes of baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg