Loaded Cheesy Beef and Potato Delight

The rich and hearty Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes combine perfectly seasoned beef, melted cheddar, and tender slices of potato for a dish that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. This meal is not only a breeze to prepare but also presents beautifully, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or casual get-togethers.

Indulge in the robust flavors of these baked delights, which are sure to make your mouth water. The recipe’s mix of cheesy goodness and aromatic spices will have everyone at the table asking for seconds, making it a go-to for those who love a good, filling meal that’s both delicious and straightforward to create.

Full Recipe:

  • Ingredients:
    • 3 large potatoes (about 900 grams)
    • 300 grams cheddar cheese, grated
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (about 20 ml)
    • Salt (about 4 grams)
    • For the filling:
    • 500 grams ground beef
    • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (about 20 ml)
    • 1 onion, finely chopped
    • 3 green peppers, diced
    • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
    • 2 tablespoons tomato sauce (about 25 grams)
    • 1 teaspoon tomato paste (about 20 grams)
    • Paprika, black pepper, cumin, thyme, and salt to taste
    • 3-4 sprigs of parsley, chopped
  • Directions:
    • Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
    • Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut them into thin slices, but not all the way through, leaving the bottom intact. Place them in a baking dish.
    • Drizzle the potatoes with vegetable oil and sprinkle with salt. Bake for about 30 minutes or until slightly golden and cooked through.
    • While the potatoes bake, heat vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and green peppers until softened.
    • Add ground beef, breaking it up as it browns. Stir in tomato sauce, tomato paste, and spices, cooking until flavors meld.
    • Remove potatoes from the oven, open slices slightly, and spoon in beef mixture. Top with cheddar cheese.
    • Return to oven for 10 more minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Garnish with parsley before serving.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 60 minutes | Kcal: 610 kcal | Servings: 4

What Makes This Dish Special?

Homestyle Comfort: Each potato is carefully sliced and stuffed, ensuring that every bite is infused with the delicious flavors of the seasoned beef and aromatic vegetables. The melted cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture that contrasts beautifully with the slightly crispy potato edges.

Versatile and Customizable: One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to swap out the green peppers for red or yellow ones for a sweeter taste or add more spices if you prefer a bit more heat. Vegetarians can even replace the ground beef with a meat substitute or additional vegetables like mushrooms and spinach.

Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re preparing a family dinner, hosting a casual get-together, or simply want a fulfilling meal that can be reheated for later, Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes are up to the task. They’re easy to prepare in advance and can be baked just before serving, making them a convenient and stress-free option.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish doesn’t just taste good—it also offers a range of nutritional benefits. Potatoes are a good source of vitamin C, vitamin B6, and potassium, while beef provides high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins. The cheddar cheese adds calcium to the mix, making this a well-rounded meal.

Cooking Tips

  • Potato Selection: Choose large, firm potatoes to ensure they hold up well during baking. Russet potatoes are ideal for their starchy texture and ability to absorb flavors.
  • Even Slices: To achieve the perfect cut without slicing through the entire potato, place chopsticks on either side of the potato while you slice—it’ll prevent the knife from cutting all the way through.
  • Cheese Choices: While cheddar is recommended for its melting qualities and sharp taste, feel free to experiment with other types of cheese like mozzarella for a milder flavor or a smoked gouda for a bit of intrigue.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes with a side of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added creaminess. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette will balance the richness of the dish and add a refreshing element to your meal.

Pairing with Drinks

These stuffed potatoes pair wonderfully with a variety of beverages. For a casual dinner, a light beer or a glass of crisp white wine complements the richness of the cheese and beef perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lime or a homemade iced tea can be just as refreshing.

Expand Your Menu

If you’re thinking about hosting a dinner and want to build a menu around these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes, consider complementary dishes that can enhance the dining experience. Start with a light appetizer like bruschetta or a simple arugula salad. For dessert, something light and fruity, like a lemon sorbet or berry parfait, would provide a sweet finish without overpowering the main course.

By integrating Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes into your cooking routine, you not only get a dish that’s versatile and flavorful but also one that can adapt to any dining occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a show-stopping centerpiece for a dinner party, this dish promises to deliver both comfort and taste with each bite. Enjoy the adventure of tweaking and perfecting it to suit your taste and make it a staple in your culinary repertoire!