Stuffed Potatoes with Minced Meat and Cheese

These Stuffed Potatoes with Minced Meat and Cheese are a delicious and hearty dish that’s perfect for a satisfying meal. The creamy, baked potatoes are stuffed with a flavorful mixture of minced meat, garlic, onions, and peppers, then topped with melted cheese. Baked to perfection, this dish combines comforting potatoes with savory meat and cheese for a dish that’s sure to please the whole family.

Preparation, Cook, and Total Times

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4 people

Cuisine

This recipe is inspired by Mediterranean and European flavors, with roasted potatoes, savory minced meat, and a mix of aromatic spices like paprika, herbs, and garlic. It’s a filling, flavorful dish that works well as a main course for lunch or dinner.

Full List of Ingredients

• 800 g potatoes, peeled and halved
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 1 tomato, chopped
• Hot water
• 500 g minced meat
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 red pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow pepper, chopped
• Salt, to taste
• Black pepper, to taste
• Provencal herbs, to taste
• Sweet paprika, to taste
• 70 g cheese, grated (any cheese of your choice)

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

1. Prepare the Potatoes
   Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F). Peel the potatoes and cut them in half. Place them in a pot of hot water and cook until tender, about 10-15 minutes. Once cooked, drain the potatoes and set them aside to cool slightly.

2. Prepare the Meat Mixture
   In a large pan, heat some vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook until browned. Once the meat is cooked, add the garlic, chopped onion, and peppers to the pan. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add salt, black pepper, Provencal herbs, and sweet paprika, and mix well. Add the chopped tomato and cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and becomes aromatic.

3. Stuff the Potatoes
   Cut a small portion from the center of each potato half to create a hollow. Place the cooked potatoes in a baking dish and fill each potato with the meat mixture.

4. Top with Cheese
   Sprinkle the grated cheese on top of each stuffed potato, ensuring they’re evenly covered.

5. Bake
   Place the stuffed potatoes in the preheated oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

6. Serve
   Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, filling meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 8 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 50 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Stuffed potatoes are a popular dish in many cuisines worldwide, where vegetables or meat are used to fill tender potato halves. This version is inspired by Mediterranean and European flavors, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that combines comforting ingredients like potatoes, meat, cheese, and spices.

Reasons Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Hearty and Filling: The combination of potatoes and minced meat makes for a filling meal, perfect for lunch or dinner.
2. Flavorful: The mix of garlic, onions, peppers, and spices gives the meat a rich, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy potatoes.
3. Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this dish is easy to prepare and bake.
4. Customizable: You can adjust the seasoning to your liking or add different vegetables and cheeses to the filling.
5. Comforting: This dish is ideal for cold nights when you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal.

Health Benefits

1. Potatoes: Potatoes are a great source of carbohydrates, fiber, and vitamin C, promoting energy and supporting digestion.
2. Minced Meat: Minced meat is rich in protein and iron, helping build muscle and support overall health.
3. Bell Peppers: Bell peppers are high in vitamin C, which supports immune health and skin health.
4. Cheese: Cheese adds protein and calcium, which are essential for muscle and bone health.

Serving Suggestions

1. With a Side Salad: Serve these stuffed potatoes with a light green salad or coleslaw for added freshness.
2. With Rice or Quinoa: Add some rice or quinoa on the side to make the meal more filling.
3. As a Side Dish: These stuffed potatoes make a great side dish to grilled meats or roasted vegetables.

Cooking Tips

1. Ensure the Potatoes Are Soft: Boil the potatoes until they are tender but not falling apart, so they hold up when stuffed.
2. Season the Meat Well: Taste the meat mixture before stuffing to make sure it’s well-seasoned. Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices as needed.
3. Use a Strong Cheese: A strong cheese like cheddar or gouda will add more flavor to the dish.
4. Don’t Overstuff: Be careful not to overstuff the potatoes, so the filling stays in place during baking.

Variations to Try

1. Add More Veggies: You can add other vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the meat mixture for more flavor and nutrition.
2. Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or fresh chili to the meat filling for a spicy kick.
3. Vegetarian Version: Replace the minced meat with a plant-based protein or beans for a vegetarian version.
4. Cheese-Free Option: If you prefer a dairy-free dish, you can skip the cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Conclusion

These Stuffed Potatoes with Minced Meat and Cheese are a delicious and hearty meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. The combination of creamy potatoes, savory meat, and melted cheese makes this dish both comforting and satisfying. Whether served as a main course or a side, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

10 Comprehensive FAQ Section

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the stuffed potatoes ahead of time and store them in the fridge. Just bake them when ready to serve.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, you can substitute minced chicken, turkey, or even a plant-based protein for a different option.

3. Can I bake these in an air fryer?
   Yes, you can cook these stuffed potatoes in an air fryer for about 15-20 minutes at 190°C (375°F) for a crispy finish.

4. Can I freeze these potatoes?
   Yes, you can freeze the stuffed potatoes before baking. Just thaw them in the fridge and bake as usual when ready.

5. How do I store leftovers?
   Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.

6. Can I add other vegetables to the stuffing?
   Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition.

7. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, simply replace the minced meat with a vegetable mixture or beans for a vegetarian version.

8. How do I know when the potatoes are done?
   The stuffed potatoes are done when the cheese is melted and golden, and the filling is hot.

9. Can I use a different cheese?
   Yes, you can use cheddar, gouda, or any cheese of your choice. Try different types for varied flavors.

10. Can I make this dish spicier?
    Yes, add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or fresh chopped chili to the filling for extra heat.