Air Fryer Broccoli & Cheese Baked Potatoes
This side dish gives you the best of two potato favorites. Tender baked potato halves are topped with a creamy Cheddar cheese and broccoli filling, then they're air-fried to create crispy skins. Air fryers require a lot less oil than deep fryers, which leaves room for an extra sprinkle of cheese.
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes (about 6-7 oz. each)
- 1 cup reduced-fat milk, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- ½ cup extra-sharp shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- 1 cup coarsely chopped broccoli florets
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- chopped chives for garnish
Directions
- Pierce potatoes all over with a fork. Place on a microwave-safe plate; microwave on High for 5 minutes. Flip the potatoes and microwave for another 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, heat 3/4 cup milk in a small saucepan to a simmer over medium-high heat. Whisk the remaining 1/4 cup milk and flour in a small bowl until smooth. Add the flour mixture to the pan and whisk until smooth. Bring to a boil, whisking constantly. Remove from heat. Reserve 2 tablespoons Cheddar. Stir the remaining Cheddar into the pan until blended and smooth. Stir in broccoli, salt and cayenne.
- Cut the potatoes in half; gently mash the inside of each potato just until loose and crumbly. Layer 4 potato halves at a time in the basket of an air fryer. Top each with 1/4 cup of the broccoli mixture, then divide 1 tablespoon Cheddar among the potatoes.
- Cook the potatoes at 350 degrees F until the cheese is melted and the potato skins are crispy, about 5 minutes. Repeat with the remaining potatoes, broccoli mixture and Cheddar.
- Top the potatoes with chives, if desired, and serve.
