Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pierced potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
Prepare the Broccoli:
While the potatoes are baking, steam or blanch the broccoli florets until they are tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain well and set aside.
Cook the Bacon:
Cook the bacon slices in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from the skillet, crumble, and set aside.
Prepare the Potato Filling:
Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Slice each potato lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a small border of potato around the edges to maintain the skin’s integrity.
Mash the scooped-out potato with a fork or potato masher. Add the butter, sour cream, milk, salt, and pepper, and mix until smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
Stir in the cooked broccoli, crumbled bacon, and 1 cup of shredded cheese into the mashed potato mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed.
Fill the Potato Skins:
Spoon the creamy mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins, distributing it evenly among the potatoes. Top each with the remaining cheese.
Bake Again:
Place the stuffed potatoes back onto the baking sheet and return to the oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve:
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh, flavorful finish.