Description

When you're in the mood for a meal that's warm, satisfying, and packed with flavor, this Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is just the dish to make. Combining tender red potatoes, savory chicken, fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and a generous amount of cheese, this casserole brings together all the elements of comfort food in one delicious package. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table

Ingredients

• 3 pounds red potatoes, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 4 tablespoons butter, room temperature
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ – 1 teaspoon kosher salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• ½ teaspoon granulated garlic or garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• 1 medium-sized broccoli crown, about 2-3 cups of bite-size broccoli florets
• 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped
• 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
• 2 cups shredded cheese, divided (use a mix of cheddar and mozzarella for extra flavor)

Preparation Method

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 10-inch square baking dish with butter or a light coating of cooking spray to prevent the casserole from sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
Place the cut potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes thoroughly and return them to the pot.

Step 3: Prepare the Broccoli and Bacon
While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the broccoli and bacon. You can steam the broccoli until it is just tender, or if you prefer, lightly roast it for a bit of extra flavor. The broccoli should be bright green and slightly tender but still have a bit of a bite to it. As for the bacon, cook it in a skillet until crispy, then crumble or chop it into small pieces. Set both the broccoli and bacon aside for later.

Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
With the potatoes back in the warm pot (ensure the heat is off), it’s time to mash them. Add the room-temperature butter, sour cream, kosher salt, black pepper, granulated garlic (or garlic powder), and paprika. Mash everything together until the potatoes are smooth and creamy, with the spices fully incorporated. The butter and sour cream will give the potatoes a rich and velvety texture, while the seasonings add depth to the flavor.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients
Next, stir in the steamed broccoli, chopped cooked chicken, crumbled bacon, and half of the shredded cheese. Mix everything together until all the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the mashed potatoes. This step is where all the components of the casserole come together to create a hearty, comforting dish.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole
Transfer the potato mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the top of the casserole. This cheese will melt and create a golden, bubbly layer that’s hard to resist. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and starting to turn golden brown.

Step 7: Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the casserole from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This will allow the flavors to settle and the casserole to firm up slightly, making it easier to serve. Dish out generous portions of your Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole, and enjoy the medley of flavors and textures in every bite

Tips and Conclusion

Bonus Tips
Add Some Spice: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mashed potatoes for an extra kick.
Make It Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting from cold.
Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and bacon. You can add more vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers to keep the dish hearty and satisfying.
Conclusion
This Baked Potato Chicken and Broccoli Casserole is the ultimate comfort food, combining the best of mashed potatoes, tender chicken, fresh broccoli, crispy bacon, and melty cheese. It's a dish that's sure to become a family favorite, offering both convenience and deliciousness. Perfect for any occasion, this casserole is not only easy to make but also easy to customize to suit your taste. Whether you're looking for a cozy weeknight meal or something special to serve guests, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve it hot, and enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that make this dish so special!