If you’re looking for a dish that will not only satisfy your taste buds but also leave your neighbors wondering what’s cooking, this Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes with Savory Meat Filling is the perfect recipe. This hearty and flavorful meal combines the comforting taste of baked potatoes with a rich, seasoned meat filling, all topped off with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s an easy dinner option that’s guaranteed to impress, whether you’re serving it for a family meal or entertaining guests.
Ingredients Overview
For the Potatoes:
- 3 Large Potatoes (about 1 kg): Potatoes are the heart of this dish. Their starchy, fluffy interior pairs beautifully with the cheesy and savory filling.
- 250g Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The cheese provides a gooey, melty topping that complements the meat filling and adds richness to the dish.
- 2-3 Pinches of Salt: A little salt helps to bring out the natural flavor of the potatoes.
- 2-3 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil: Used to coat the potatoes, ensuring they bake to a golden, crispy perfection.
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 Medium Onion, Chopped: Onions add a sweet and savory depth to the meat filling.
- 2 Tablespoons Vegetable Oil: Helps to sauté the onion and garlic, creating the base for the filling.
- 1 Tablespoon Grated Garlic: Garlic adds a fragrant, savory flavor that elevates the entire dish.
- 500g Minced Meat (Beef or Pork): The main protein component, minced meat is hearty and absorbs all the spices beautifully.
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, Finely Chopped: Adds sweetness and a pop of color to the filling.
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, Finely Chopped: Balances the red pepper with a slightly bitter, earthy flavor.
- 1 Teaspoon Salt: Enhances the flavors of the meat and vegetables.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Paprika: Adds a mild spice and deep red color to the filling.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper: Brings a slight heat and complexity to the dish.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Ginger Powder: Adds warmth and a hint of spice.
- 1/2 Teaspoon Turmeric: Provides a subtle earthy flavor and a beautiful golden color.
- 2 Tablespoons Chopped Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a touch of brightness and herbaceous flavor.
- 3 Tablespoons Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture and a tangy sweetness to the meat filling.
- 1 Teaspoon Thyme or Oregano (Optional): Herbs like thyme or oregano can add an extra layer of flavor if desired.
- 150g Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Used as an additional layer of cheesy goodness in the filling.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preparing the Potatoes
Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures that it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing the potatoes.
Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash the potatoes thoroughly to remove any dirt, and then pat them dry. Using a fork, poke several holes around each potato to allow steam to escape during baking. Coat the potatoes with vegetable oil and sprinkle them with a few pinches of salt. This will help the skins crisp up nicely in the oven.
Bake the Potatoes:
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. The baking time may vary depending on the size of your potatoes. Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Preparing the Meat Filling
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
While the potatoes are baking, start preparing the meat filling. Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and grated garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Cook the Minced Meat:
Add the minced meat to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
Add the Bell Peppers and Seasonings:
Stir in the finely chopped red and green bell peppers, and cook for another 5 minutes until they soften. Add salt, paprika, black pepper, ginger powder, turmeric, and the optional thyme or oregano. Mix well to ensure the meat and vegetables are evenly coated with the spices.
Finish the Filling:
Add the chopped parsley and tomato sauce to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Remove the skillet from the heat and set the filling aside.
3. Assembling the Stuffed Potatoes
Prepare the Potatoes for Stuffing:
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to carefully scoop out the insides, leaving about a 1/4-inch thick shell. Be careful not to break the skins. Transfer the scooped-out potato into a bowl.
Mix the Potato with Cheese:
Mash the scooped-out potato with a fork or potato masher, then mix in 250g of shredded mozzarella cheese and a pinch of salt. The cheese should start to melt slightly, making the potato mixture creamy and rich.
Fill the Potato Shells:
Spoon the cheesy potato mixture back into the potato shells, spreading it evenly. Then, top each potato half with a generous amount of the meat filling.
Add More Cheese:
Sprinkle the remaining 150g of shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of each stuffed potato, ensuring each one is fully covered.
4. Final Baking and Serving
Bake the Stuffed Potatoes:
Place the stuffed potatoes back in the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and bubbly, with a golden-brown crust.
Serve Hot:
Once done, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor. Serve the stuffed potatoes hot, alongside a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips and Variations
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You can also experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
- Make it Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the meat filling.
- Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the minced meat with a plant-based alternative or a combination of cooked lentils and beans.
- Advance Preparation: You can prepare the potatoes and meat filling ahead of time. Simply store them separately in the fridge and assemble the stuffed potatoes when you’re ready to bake them.
Nutritional Benefits and Health Considerations
This dish is a well-rounded meal that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fats. Potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and dietary fiber, which are essential for maintaining heart health and regulating blood pressure. The minced meat provides high-quality protein, B vitamins, and iron, which are important for muscle repair and energy production. By using mozzarella cheese, you also get a dose of calcium, which is crucial for bone health.
Conclusion
This Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes with Savory Meat Filling recipe is a surefire way to impress your family and friends. The combination of crispy potato skins, creamy cheese, and flavorful meat filling makes for a comforting and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Serve it hot, and watch as everyone reaches for seconds—and maybe even asks for the recipe!