Stuffed potatoes are a classic comfort food that offers both simplicity and indulgence in one dish. This particular recipe combines tender, hollowed-out potatoes with a savory filling of minced meat, fresh carrots, and gooey cheese, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weeknight meal, these stuffed potatoes are easy to prepare and offer a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner solution or a dish to impress guests, these stuffed potatoes with minced meat are sure to become a new favorite.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 4 large potatoes
• 500 g minced meat (beef, pork, or chicken)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, grated
• 80 g cheese, grated (for the filling)
• 100 g cheese, grated (for topping)
• 2 boiled eggs, grated
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
• 90 g cheese (additional, for mixing)
• 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
• Salt, black pepper, and Italian herb mix
• Fresh dill, chopped
• Vegetable oil (for frying and greasing)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potatoes:
   • Boil 4 large potatoes in salted water until tender. Once cooked, let them cool slightly, then cut them in half and carefully scoop out the middle, creating a hollow in each half.
2. Prepare the Minced Meat:
   • In a bowl, combine 500 g of minced meat with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of Italian herbs. Mix well.
3. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat a little vegetable oil in a pan. Add 1 chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes.
   • Add the grated carrots to the pan along with some salt, black pepper, and a pinch of basil. Simmer for 2 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Stuff the Potatoes:
   • Take the hollowed-out potatoes and fill them with the carrot mixture. Set them aside.
5. Prepare the Casserole Dish:
   • Grease a baking dish with vegetable oil and place the stuffed potatoes in the dish. Top each potato with a portion of the 80 g grated cheese.
6. First Bake:
   • Bake the stuffed potatoes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 7-10 minutes, just until the cheese melts and turns golden.
7. Make the Filling:
   • In a separate bowl, mix the grated boiled eggs, 90 g cheese, tomato slices, salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise. Spread this mixture over the baked potatoes.
8. Second Bake:
   • Place the potatoes back in the oven and bake for an additional 20 minutes at 180°C. After 20 minutes, sprinkle the remaining 100 g of grated cheese on top of the potatoes and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Finishing Touches:
   • Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven, sprinkle with fresh chopped dill, and serve with the cooked minced meat on the side.

Enjoy this heartwarming and savory dish with family!

 

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx. 4 Servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 35g (of which sugars: 5g)
• Fiber: 5g
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 120mg
• Sodium: 500mg
• Calcium: 300mg
• Vitamin A: 1500 IU
• Vitamin C: 20mg
• Iron: 3mg

FAQs:

1. Can I use other types of cheese in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the cheese with other varieties like cheddar, mozzarella, or gouda. Each cheese will bring a different flavor and melting quality, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite combination.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed potatoes and freeze them before baking. To do this, assemble the potatoes, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and freeze. When ready to cook, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed. You may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from frozen.

3. What can I serve with these stuffed potatoes?
These stuffed potatoes are a complete meal on their own, but they pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad, steamed vegetables, or a light soup. For a heartier meal, consider serving them with a side of garlic bread or a simple coleslaw.

4. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this dish vegetarian by substituting the minced meat with a plant-based alternative or sautéed mushrooms. You can also add more vegetables or beans for added protein and texture.

5. How do I prevent the potatoes from becoming too soggy?
To avoid soggy potatoes, make sure to bake them in a preheated oven and avoid overcooking the filling. Ensure that the potatoes are well-drained after boiling and use a thin layer of oil on the baking dish to help crisp up the potatoes.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover stuffed potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. If reheating in the oven, cover with foil to prevent the cheese from burning.
• Freezing: You can freeze the assembled but unbaked stuffed potatoes. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake according to the recipe instructions.

Cooking Tips:

• Potato Preparation: For the best results, choose starchy potatoes like Russets, as they become fluffy and easy to scoop out. Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked before hollowing them out to avoid undercooked centers.
• Filling Consistency: Be sure not to overcook the carrots and onions when preparing the filling. They should be tender but still have some texture. This helps them hold up better during baking and provides a better contrast to the creamy cheese.
• Seasoning: Taste the meat mixture before stuffing it into the potatoes. Adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure the filling is flavorful and well-balanced.

Conclusion:

These Stuffed Potatoes with Minced Meat, Carrots, and Cheese are a delightful and versatile dish that brings comfort and flavor to your dinner table. With a delicious combination of tender potatoes, savory meat, and melted cheese, this recipe is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a comforting meal, these stuffed potatoes are sure to please. The recipe can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences, making it a great addition to any meal plan. Enjoy the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite, and savor the ease and enjoyment of this classic dish.

Feel free to reach out if you have any more questions or need further adjustments to the recipe!