Stuffed Potatoes with Meat and Cheese: A Hearty and Flavorful Dish

Introduction

Stuffed Potatoes with Meat and Cheese are a satisfying and delicious dish that can be served as a main course or a hearty side. The combination of tender potato flesh, seasoned ground meat, and melted cheese creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to use your favorite meats, cheeses, and seasonings. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner, a gathering, or just a cozy night in, this stuffed potato recipe is sure to please everyone at the table!

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or chicken, turkey, or lamb)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce (or diced tomatoes)
• 1/4 cup water or beef broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Cheese:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese (for extra meltiness)
• Sour cream (for serving, optional)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Preparation Tips

1. Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe due to their starchy texture, which makes them fluffy inside and perfect for stuffing.
2. Make the Filling Ahead: You can prepare the meat filling a day before and store it in the refrigerator. This will save time when you’re ready to assemble the stuffed potatoes.
3. Season to Taste: Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices and seasoning in the meat mixture to suit your tastes. Adding chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce can give the dish a nice kick!

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and prick each one several times with a fork.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet, and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Once the potatoes are baked, allow them to cool slightly before handling.

Step 2: Make the Meat Filling

1. While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the ground meat.
2. Cook the meat, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
3. Remove any excess grease, then add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, until softened.
4. Stir in the tomato sauce, water (or broth), oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5-7 minutes, until thickened.
5. If desired, stir in the fresh parsley for added flavor and freshness. Set the meat mixture aside.

Step 3: Stuff the Potatoes

1. Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise.
2. Carefully scoop out the potato flesh from each half, leaving about 1/4 inch of potato around the edges to form a shell.
3. Mash the scooped-out potato flesh with a fork, then mix it into the meat mixture.
4. Fill each potato shell with the meat and mashed potato mixture. Press down gently to pack the filling in.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Top each stuffed potato with a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of mozzarella cheese for extra meltiness.
3. Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes before serving.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions and a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Description

These Stuffed Potatoes with Meat and Cheese are the ultimate comfort food, combining hearty ground meat, creamy mashed potatoes, and melted cheese in a perfectly baked potato shell. The savory meat filling adds a rich depth of flavor, while the cheese brings a satisfying creamy texture. This dish is versatile, filling, and perfect for any occasion, from casual family meals to a special dinner.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 430 (per stuffed potato, with cheese and sour cream)
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Sodium: 470mg
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 4g
• Vitamin A: 15%
• Vitamin C: 25%
• Calcium: 15%
• Iron: 15%

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, lamb, or even a vegetarian option like crumbled tofu or tempeh can be used in place of ground beef. Adjust the seasoning accordingly based on the type of meat.

2. Can I make the stuffed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day in advance. Just assemble them, cover with foil, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to serve, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

3. Can I freeze the stuffed potatoes?
Absolutely! You can freeze the stuffed potatoes before baking. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and foil, then store them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To bake, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as usual.

4. How can I make this recipe healthier?
You can make the recipe healthier by using lean ground turkey or chicken, reducing the amount of cheese, or using a smaller amount of sour cream as a topping. You can also add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, to the meat mixture.

5. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground meat with a mixture of vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant, or use a plant-based meat substitute. You can also add beans or lentils for protein.

Recommendations

1. Toppings: Add a spoonful of salsa, guacamole, or a sprinkle of chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
2. Side Dish: Serve with a light side salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness of the stuffed potatoes.
3. Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for a spicy kick.
4. Make It Tex-Mex: Top the stuffed potatoes with a bit of sour cream, shredded lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a Tex-Mex inspired version.

Conclusion

Stuffed Potatoes with Meat and Cheese are a comforting and customizable dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just a cozy night at home, they’re easy to prepare, filling, and incredibly flavorful. Try them out and enjoy a satisfying meal with the perfect combination of textures and savory flavors!