Hearty Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole 🥔🍗🥦
Indulge in the comforting flavors of this Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole. Perfect for family dinners, this dish combines tender red potatoes, succulent chicken, crisp broccoli, and crispy bacon, all smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This casserole is sure to be a crowd-pleaser, bringing warmth and joy to your table.
Ingredients Overview
Main Ingredients
- 3 pounds red potatoes: Cut into 1-inch pieces for uniform cooking and easy mashing.
- 4 tablespoons butter (room temperature): Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes.
- 1 cup sour cream: Provides tanginess and a smooth texture to the dish.
- ½ – 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances the flavors of the ingredients.
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a mild heat and depth of flavor.
- ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder: Infuses the dish with a savory aroma.
- ½ teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
- 1 medium-sized broccoli crown: Yields about 2-3 cups of bite-size broccoli florets, adding a fresh crunch.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Chopped for easy incorporation into the casserole.
- 4 slices bacon: Cooked and crumbled for a delicious crispy texture.
- 2 cups shredded cheese: Divided for a creamy and melty topping.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch square baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Place the potato pieces in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the hot pot.
Prepare the Broccoli
- Steam or Roast the Broccoli: While the potatoes are boiling, steam or roast the broccoli until hot and barely softened. It should still be a little crisp. Drain any liquid from the broccoli.
Cook the Bacon
- Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon until crispy. Chop or crumble the bacon and set aside.
Mash the Potatoes
- Mash the Potatoes: Place the pot with the potatoes back over a warm burner (turned off). If using a gas stove, turn the heat to the lowest possible setting to evaporate any remaining water. Smash the potatoes with a potato masher.
Combine Ingredients
- Add Butter and Seasonings: Add the butter, sour cream, salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika to the mashed potatoes. Stir to combine.
- Mix in Broccoli, Chicken, and Bacon: Add the cooked broccoli, chopped chicken, crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheese to the pot. Stir thoroughly.
Assemble and Bake
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese has melted and the casserole is heated through.
Serve and Enjoy
- Serve Warm: Let the casserole sit for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with your loved ones.
Tips for Seamless Cooking
Helpful Tip: Use room temperature butter to ensure it melts smoothly into the hot potatoes.
Helpful Tip: Pre-cook the chicken and use leftovers to save time. Rotisserie chicken works great!
Helpful Tip: Freshly grate your cheese for the best melt and texture.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storage:
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of potatoes?
- Answer: Yes, you can use Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes for this recipe. Just ensure they are cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
Can I substitute the sour cream?
- Answer: Absolutely! Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as a substitute for sour cream.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
- Answer: Yes, you can assemble the casserole ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking as directed.
Can I use frozen broccoli?
- Answer: Yes, just thaw the broccoli and drain any excess moisture before using it in the recipe.
What other cheeses can I use?
- Answer: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gouda, or even a blend of your favorites.
Secrets for Culinary Perfection
Secret: Ensure potatoes are fully drained before mashing to avoid watery casserole.
Secret: Use freshly ground black pepper and high-quality paprika for a more intense flavor.
Secret: Crisp up the bacon well to maintain its texture even after baking.
Enjoy creating this comforting Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole and sharing it with your loved ones. It’s a delicious way to bring warmth and joy to any meal
