If you’re looking for a unique and delicious way to enjoy ground beef and potatoes, this recipe is for you. Ground beef stuffed potatoes offer a delightful combination of savory beef and tender potatoes, all brought together with gooey melted cheese. This dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- 4 large potatoes
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
- Boil the Potatoes: Start by washing the potatoes thoroughly. Place them in a large pot of boiling water and cook until they are tender but still firm, about 20-25 minutes. You should be able to insert a fork easily but not have the potato fall apart.
- Cool and Hollow Out: Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the water and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the inside, leaving a sturdy shell about 1/4 inch thick. Reserve the scooped-out potato for another use, such as mashed potatoes.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they are fragrant and the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
- Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
Step 3: Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Fill the Potatoes: Place the hollowed-out potato halves in a baking dish. Spoon the ground beef mixture into each potato half, pressing it down slightly to ensure it fills the cavity well.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top of each stuffed potato.
Step 4: Bake and Serve
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the potatoes are heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Stuffed Potatoes:
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for this recipe because they hold their shape well when hollowed out and baked.
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Be careful not to overcook the potatoes during the initial boiling, as they need to remain firm enough to hold the filling.
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to customize the ground beef mixture with your favorite herbs and spices, or add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions:
- Salad: Serve the stuffed potatoes with a fresh green salad on the side to balance the richness of the dish.
- Bread: A slice of crusty bread or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the savory beef and cheese.
- Vegetables: Roasted or steamed vegetables, such as broccoli, carrots, or green beans, make a great accompaniment.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g
FAQ:
Q: Can I make these stuffed potatoes ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the stuffed potatoes up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them for up to a day. When ready to bake, simply remove them from the refrigerator and bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed to ensure they are heated through.
Q: Can I use a different type of cheese? A: Absolutely! While mozzarella cheese melts beautifully, you can use other cheeses such as cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegetarian? A: Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative or use a mixture of beans and vegetables for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
Ground beef stuffed potatoes are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the hearty flavors of seasoned beef and creamy potatoes with the gooey goodness of melted cheese. This recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household, offering a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Try it out and delight in the wonderful combination of textures and flavors!
