Cheesy Broccoli Baked Potatoes for 8

Scrub and prick potatoes; bake in 400°F (200°C) oven for 1 hour or until tender. (Or microwave in batches on High for 8 to 10 minutes.)

Cheesy Broccoli Sauce: Meanwhile, in skillet, bring 1/4 cup (50 mL) water to boil. Add broccoli; cover and cook for 5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside. In same skillet, cook bacon over medium heat for 5 minutes or until crisp. Drain on paper towel; chop and set aside.

Add onion to skillet; cook until softened. Stir in flour; cook for 30 seconds. Whisk in milk, salt and pepper, cook, stirring, for 1 minute or until thickened. Remove from heat. Stir in 1 cup (250 mL) of the cheese until melted. Add bacon and broccoli.

Cut potatoes lengthwise down centre almost but not all the way through. Scoop out flesh into sauce, leaving 1/4-inch (5 mm) thick shell. Stir until blended; spoon into shells. Return to 400°F (200°C) oven and bake for 5 to 10 minutes, or broil for 3 minutes, or until cheese is melted.

Source : Best Recipes Ever, weekdays at 3pm on CBC TV