Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes: A Comfort Food Classic

Stuffed potatoes are a hearty, delicious, and versatile dish that works perfectly for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even as a game-day treat. Our Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes recipe combines savory ground beef, melty cheddar cheese, and fluffy baked potatoes for a satisfying meal that’s as easy to prepare as it is to enjoy. Follow this step-by-step guide to create the ultimate stuffed potatoes that will leave your family and guests asking for seconds.

 

Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4 large baking potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

For the Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/4 cup beef broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup milk (optional, for creamier texture)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

 

Instructions 

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and scrub the baking potatoes thoroughly. Dry them with a clean kitchen towel.
3. Using a fork, poke holes all over each potato. This allows steam to escape during baking.
4. Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake the potatoes for 50–60 minutes, or until the skins are crispy and a knife easily pierces through the flesh. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

1. While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease if necessary.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 3–5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Season the beef mixture with smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Mix in the tomato paste and beef broth. Let the mixture simmer for 5–10 minutes until it thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Hollow Out the Potatoes

1. Once the baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice each one in half lengthwise.
2. Using a spoon, carefully scoop out most of the potato flesh into a large mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer inside the skins to help them hold their shape.
3. Arrange the hollowed-out potato skins on the baking sheet.

Step 4: Create the Cheesy Potato Mixture

1. Mash the scooped-out potato flesh with a potato masher or fork.
2. Add sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and milk (if using) to the mashed potatoes. Mix until smooth and creamy.
3. Fold in the cooked beef mixture and stir until evenly combined.

Step 5: Stuff the Potatoes

1. Spoon the beef and potato mixture back into the hollowed-out potato skins. Pack the filling generously to create a slight mound.
2. Sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese over the tops of the stuffed potatoes for a melty, golden finish.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

1. Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. They’re also perfect for casual gatherings and are sure to be a hit at any table.

Tips for Success

• Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet potatoes are ideal for this recipe because their high starch content creates a fluffy texture when baked.
• Customize the Filling: Add diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Make It Spicy: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red chili flakes for a kick of heat.
• Prep Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed potatoes up to the baking step and store them in the refrigerator. Bake them just before serving for maximum freshness.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 8 servings):

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg

Why This Recipe Works

1. Versatility: This recipe is easily adaptable to your taste preferences. Whether you’re adding extra veggies or swapping ground beef for turkey, it’s a dish you can make your own.
2. Comfort Food Appeal: The combination of creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned beef, and melted cheese hits all the right notes for a comforting, satisfying meal.
3. Budget-Friendly: Using simple, inexpensive ingredients, this recipe is a cost-effective way to feed a hungry family.

 

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes are the epitome of comfort food done right. With their crispy potato skins, creamy mashed filling, and cheesy, savory topping, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Make them tonight and experience the deliciousness for yourself!