The Loaded Broccoli Potato Pan is a one-pan wonder, combining tender potatoes, vibrant broccoli, crispy bacon, and gooey melted cheese into a satisfying dish. Perfect as a hearty side or even a main course, this recipe is quick, delicious, and sure to please the whole family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Uses pantry staples and fresh vegetables.
- One-Pan Meal: Easy prep and cleanup for busy days.
- Versatile Dish: Works as a side, main course, or potluck favorite.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Combines the irresistible flavors of bacon, cheese, and potatoes.
- Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or proteins for endless variations.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Potatoes, diced
- Fresh broccoli florets
- Olive oil
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
- Cooked bacon, crumbled
- Cheddar cheese, shredded
- Green onions, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
Directions
- Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Prepare Potatoes
- Toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large mixing bowl.
- Bake Potatoes
- Spread the seasoned potatoes in a single layer on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for 20–25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until tender and golden brown.
- Add Broccoli
- While the potatoes are baking, blanch the broccoli in boiling water for 2–3 minutes, then drain.
- Add the broccoli to the pan with the partially baked potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Top with Cheese and Bacon
- Sprinkle the crumbled bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes and broccoli. Return to the oven for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve
- Remove the pan from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm with sour cream on the side if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe serves 4–6 people.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, sausage, or ground beef to make it a full meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the bacon and add roasted mushrooms or chickpeas for extra flavor and texture.
- Different Cheeses: Swap cheddar for mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a smoky gouda.
- Spicy Twist: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Sweet Potato Swap: Replace regular potatoes with sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or in a microwave for 1–2 minutes.
- Freezing: While freezing is not recommended due to the texture changes of the potatoes and broccoli, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli?
Yes, thaw and pat the broccoli dry before adding it to the pan to avoid excess moisture.
Do I have to peel the potatoes?
No, leaving the skin on adds texture and nutrients, but you can peel them if you prefer.
What’s the best potato for this recipe?
Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best as they hold their shape and roast beautifully.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake the potatoes and prepare the broccoli in advance. Combine and bake with cheese and bacon just before serving.
What can I use instead of bacon?
Try turkey bacon, pancetta, or a vegetarian bacon alternative.
How do I keep the broccoli from getting soggy?
Blanch the broccoli briefly and ensure it’s well-drained before adding it to the pan.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Bell peppers, zucchini, or cauliflower make excellent additions.
Can I use a different seasoning?
Feel free to experiment with ranch seasoning, Italian herbs, or Cajun spice for variety.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as long as your bacon and cheese are free of additives containing gluten.
Can I cook this on the stovetop instead of the oven?
Yes, cook the potatoes in a large skillet until tender, then add the broccoli, bacon, and cheese, covering until the cheese melts.
Conclusion
Loaded Broccoli Potato Pan is the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty potatoes, fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and melted cheese in one delicious dish. Whether served as a side or enjoyed as a main course, this recipe is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit. Try it tonight and see why it’s a family favorite!
PrintLoaded Broccoli Potato Pan Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish, Main Dish
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
This comforting dish features crispy potatoes, tender broccoli, melted cheese, and savory toppings like bacon and sour cream. Perfect as a side dish or a main course!
Ingredients
For the Base:
- 4 medium potatoes (washed and diced)
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 slices of bacon (cooked and crumbled)
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 2 green onions (sliced)
- 1 tbsp parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated.
- Roast the Potatoes:
- Spread the potatoes in an even layer on a large, greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
Add the Broccoli:
- Prepare the Broccoli:
- While the potatoes roast, steam or blanch the broccoli for 2-3 minutes until slightly tender but still vibrant green.
- Combine and Roast:
- Add the broccoli to the pan with the roasted potatoes. Toss lightly and return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes.
Add the Toppings:
- Add Cheese and Bacon:
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the potatoes and broccoli. Top with the crumbled bacon. Return the pan to the oven for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish:
- Remove the pan from the oven and drizzle with sour cream. Sprinkle with green onions and parsley.
Serve:
- Enjoy Hot:
- Serve immediately as a side dish or a main course with your favorite protein.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and add toasted nuts or seeds for crunch.
- Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a twist.
- This dish reheats well; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.