Twice-baked potatoes filled with meat and cheese are the ultimate comfort food, combining creamy mashed potatoes, savory meat, and gooey melted cheese into one irresistible dish.
Perfect as a hearty main course or an indulgent side, this recipe brings together classic flavors with a fun and creative twist.
Whether served at family dinners or gatherings, these stuffed potatoes are sure to please everyone at the table!
Ingredients:
Ingredients: 4 big russet potatoes
1 tablespoon of olive oil
Add salt and pepper according to your preference.
1/2 pound of ground beef or lamb
1 little onion, chopped into small pieces.
1 carrot, cut into small pieces.
1 red pepper, chopped
2 pieces of garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon of dried herbs like thyme or rosemary
1/2 cup of broth made from beef or vegetables.
1 cup of grated cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix)
2 tablespoons of butter
1/4 cup of milk or cream
Freshly cut parsley (for decoration)
PREPARATION:
Steps to follow:
To cook potatoes:
Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C) before using.
Clean the potatoes well and dry them.
Poke them with a fork a few times, then coat them with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
Put on a baking tray and bake for around 60 minutes or until the potatoes are soft inside.
Prepare the stuffing:
While the potatoes are cooking, warm a frying pan on medium heat.
Put the minced meat in the pan and cook it until it turns golden brown.
Take out of the pan and place to the side.
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed.
Cook the onion, carrot, and pepper until they are soft, for about 5 to 7 minutes.
Put the garlic and dried herbs in the pan and cook for one more minute.
Put the meat back in the pan, pour in the broth, and let it cook until most of the liquid is gone.
Prepare stuffed potatoes:
After the potatoes are done, cut them in half lengthwise.
Gently remove the potato skins, making sure to leave a little bit of potato on them.
Mix the scooped-out potatoes with butter and milk until they are smooth. Add salt and pepper to your liking.
Combine the mashed potatoes with the meat and vegetable mix, and then put the mixture back into the potato skins.
Put grated cheese on top of each potato half that is stuffed.
Bake Once More:
Put the potatoes back in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 more minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
In short: These potatoes filled with meat and cheese can be a tasty main dish or a decadent side dish for a lighter meal.
The mix of soft potatoes, tasty meat, and melted cheese is a hit with everyone and great for family meals or gatherings.
Serve the dish hot, sprinkle fresh parsley on top, and savor the delicious taste!
For a creative twist on these twice-baked potatoes, you can swap the ground beef or lamb with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a lighter or vegetarian version.
Experiment with different cheeses like Gouda, Parmesan, or blue cheese for added flavor depth.
Adding cooked bacon bits or diced mushrooms to the filling can elevate the dish further.
For a spicier kick, mix in a pinch of chili flakes or smoked paprika.
To save time, bake the potatoes ahead and store them in the refrigerator until ready to stuff and bake again.
Always use russet potatoes for their sturdy skins and fluffy interiors, and don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a fresh, vibrant finish.
To store twice-baked potatoes filled with meat and cheese, allow them to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in aluminum foil.
Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
For longer storage, freeze them individually by wrapping each potato in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or placing them in a freezer-safe bag; they can be frozen for up to 2 months.
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
You can also microwave them for a quicker option, though the texture may be slightly softer.
Twice-baked potatoes filled with meat and cheese are a hearty and satisfying dish.
Each serving provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, including carbohydrates from the potatoes, protein from the ground meat and cheese, and healthy fats from butter and olive oil.
On average, a single stuffed potato half contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.
It also offers a good amount of vitamins such as vitamin C, potassium, and B vitamins from the potatoes and vegetables, along with calcium and protein from the cheese.
To make it lighter, you can use lean meat, reduce the cheese, or opt for low-fat dairy alternatives.