Cheesy Baked Potatoes with Ground Beef Filling

This Cheesy Mashed Potato Roll is a delicious and hearty dish featuring creamy mashed potatoes wrapped around a flavorful ground beef filling. Baked to perfection with melted cheddar cheese, this dish is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you’re craving a comforting, cheesy meal. The combination of creamy potatoes and a spiced meat filling makes this recipe an absolute must-try!

Preparation Time

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
  • Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 3 large potatoes (900g or 6 cups), peeled and cubed
  • 100g (7 tbsp) butter
  • 100ml (½ cup) milk
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 150g (1½ cups) cheddar cheese, shredded

For the Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons (20ml) vegetable oil
  • 500g (1 lb) ground beef
  • 1 onion, finely chopped (½ cup)
  • 3 green peppers, finely chopped (1 cup)
  • 3 red peppers, finely chopped (1 cup)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon (20g) tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons (25g) tomato sauce
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 3-4 sprigs parsley, chopped

For Assembly:

  • 150g (1½ cups) cheddar cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons (20ml) vegetable oil
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until soft and fork-tender.
  • Drain the potatoes and transfer them to a large mixing bowl.
  • Mash the potatoes while they are still warm.
  • Add butter, milk, salt, and black pepper, then mix until smooth and creamy.
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and mix until well combined.
  • Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly before rolling.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling:

  • Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the ground beef and cook until browned.
  • Stir in chopped onion, green peppers, red peppers, and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables soften.
  • Add tomato paste, tomato sauce, paprika, black pepper, cumin, and salt. Mix well and let cook for another 3-5 minutes.
  • Stir in chopped parsley and remove from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Assemble the Potato Roll:

  • Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F).
  • Place a large sheet of parchment paper on a flat surface.
  • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly into a large rectangular shape (about ½-inch thick).
  • Evenly distribute the meat filling over the mashed potato layer, leaving about 1 inch of space along the edges.
  • Carefully roll the mashed potato sheet from one end to the other, using the parchment paper to help shape the roll.
  • Transfer the roll (with parchment paper) onto a baking tray.

4. Bake the Potato Roll:

  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the roll.
  • Drizzle with vegetable oil to help with browning.
  • Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden brown.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

  • Remove the roll from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

The Origins and Popularity of Mashed Potato Rolls

Mashed potato rolls are a unique fusion of classic comfort food with an elegant presentation.

  • Inspired by Classic Shepherd’s Pie: This dish takes the familiar flavors of shepherd’s pie and transforms them into a beautifully rolled dish.
  • Popular in European Cuisine: Many cultures use mashed potatoes in layered or rolled dishes, often combined with cheese and meat for a hearty meal.
  • A New Favorite for Home Cooks: With its creamy texture and rich filling, this dish has become a trendy favorite for family meals and special occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This mashed potato roll is comforting, cheesy, and packed with flavor.

  • Creamy and Cheesy: The mashed potatoes are smooth and rich, blending perfectly with the melted cheddar cheese.
  • Savory and Flavorful: The spiced ground beef filling adds a burst of flavor in every bite.
  • Impressive Presentation: The roll shape makes it look fancy, yet it’s incredibly easy to make.
  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Can be prepared ahead of time and baked when ready.

Health Benefits of This Recipe

This dish is not just delicious but also packed with nutrients.

  • Potatoes: A good source of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium.
  • Ground Beef: Provides protein, iron, and B vitamins for energy and muscle health.
  • Cheese: Contains calcium and protein to support strong bones.
  • Peppers and Onions: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins to boost immunity.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is delicious on its own but pairs well with other side dishes.

  • With a Side Salad: Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for balance.
  • With a Sauce: Drizzle with garlic yogurt sauce or spicy ketchup for extra flavor.
  • With Roasted Vegetables: Pair with roasted carrots or zucchini for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Mashed Potato Roll

Follow these tips to make your roll smooth and firm.

  • Use Starchy Potatoes – Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for a creamy texture.
  • Cool the Mashed Potatoes Slightly – This prevents them from being too soft when rolling.
  • Roll Gently – Use parchment paper to guide the roll without breaking.
  • Let It Rest Before Slicing – This helps the roll maintain its shape.

Variations to Try

Customize the roll with different fillings and flavors.

  • Cheesy Chicken Roll – Replace beef with shredded chicken and add more cheese.
  • Vegetarian Option – Use mushrooms, spinach, and ricotta instead of meat.
  • Spicy Mexican Style – Add jalapeños, taco seasoning, and pepper jack cheese.
  • Bacon Lovers’ Version – Mix crispy bacon into the mashed potatoes for extra smokiness.

Storage and Reheating

This dish stores well and can be enjoyed later.

  • Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat: Warm in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 10-12 minutes or microwave for 2 minutes.

Conclusion: A Comfort Food Favorite

This Cheesy Mashed Potato Roll is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy mashed potatoes, rich melted cheese, and a perfectly seasoned beef filling. Whether for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. With its beautiful roll shape and irresistible flavors, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, satisfying meals. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delicious, comforting dish with every bite!

FAQ

1. Can I make this roll ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the roll and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it the next day.

2. Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes will add a slightly sweeter flavor and more fiber.

3. What’s the best way to slice the roll?
Use a sharp knife and slice gently to maintain the roll’s shape.

4. Can I add extra cheese inside?
Yes! You can mix cheese into the mashed potatoes or sprinkle inside before rolling.

Enjoy making and devouring this Cheesy Mashed Potato Roll – a dish that’s as fun to prepare as it is to eat! 🍽️✨