Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes

Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for a kick)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during cooking.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper.
4. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with aluminum foil. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.

Step 2: Cook the Beef Filling

1. While the potatoes are baking, prepare the beef filling. In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent.
3. Stir in the tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, oregano, and chili powder if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 3: Scoop the Potatoes

1. Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes until they are safe to handle.
2. Carefully cut each potato in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a bowl.

Step 4: Make the Mashed Potato Filling

1. Add the butter and milk to the bowl with the scooped-out potato flesh. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
2. Stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and the sour cream. Mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes

1. Divide the mashed potato mixture evenly among the potato shells, creating a small well in the center of each.
2. Spoon the beef mixture into the well of each potato, heaping it as needed.
3. Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef filling.

Step 6: Bake the Stuffed Potatoes

1. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet.
2. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

1. Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
3. Serve hot, and enjoy your cheesy beef-stuffed potatoes!

Tips for Success:

• Potato Variety: Russet potatoes work best for this recipe as they have a fluffy interior that is perfect for mashing.
• Customize the Filling: Feel free to add other ingredients to the beef mixture, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or corn, for added flavor and texture.
• Cheese Options: While cheddar cheese is classic, you can use other types of cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even blue cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed potatoes up to the point of the second bake and refrigerate them. When ready to serve, bake them in a preheated oven until heated through and the cheese is melted.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve these stuffed potatoes as a hearty main course alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
• These stuffed potatoes also make an excellent side dish for grilled meats or a barbecue spread.

Variations:

• Mexican-Style: Add a sprinkle of taco seasoning to the beef mixture and top with diced tomatoes, jalapeños, and a dollop of guacamole.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables for a delicious vegetarian version.
• Breakfast: Use cooked breakfast sausage instead of beef and top with a fried egg for a breakfast twist.

These cheesy beef-stuffed potatoes are a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite. They combine the best of baked potatoes and hearty beef filling, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Enjoy them for dinner, lunch, or a hearty snack!