Cook potatoes with meat this way next time, and you will not regret it. This delicious recipe combines tender baked potatoes with a flavorful ground meat filling, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Follow these steps to make a dish that your whole family will love.
Ingredients:
- 4 potatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for greasing the pan)
- Salt to taste
- 1 onion, chopped
- 350 grams ground meat
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- Parsley to taste
- 50 milliliters water
- 50 grams mozzarella cheese, grated
- Optional: Parmesan cheese, grated
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Begin by cutting off the tops of four potatoes. Use a sharp knife to carefully slice off the top third of each potato. This will create an opening for the filling.
- Place the potatoes in a pan and set aside.
- Season the Potatoes:
- In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well until smooth.
- Using a kitchen brush, spread the tomato paste mixture inside each potato. This adds a rich flavor and helps to season the potatoes.
- Sprinkle salt to taste inside the potatoes.
- Preheat your oven to 356°F (180°C).
- Place the seasoned potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 40 minutes, or until they are tender.
- Prepare the Filling:
- While the potatoes are baking, heat a pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add 350 grams of ground meat to the pan. Break the meat apart with a spatula and cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
- Season the meat with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, 1 teaspoon of paprika, and 3 chopped garlic cloves. Stir to combine.
- Add chopped parsley to taste and mix well.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a separate container, combine 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and 50 milliliters of water. Stir until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency. This sauce will be used to add moisture and flavor to the filling.
- Fill the Potatoes:
- Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly.
- Use a spoon to carefully hollow out the center of each potato, creating a cavity for the filling.
- Spoon the prepared meat mixture into each potato, packing it tightly.
- Top each filled potato with a little mozzarella cheese. You can also add Parmesan cheese if desired for an extra cheesy flavor.
- Bake the Stuffed Potatoes:
- Drizzle the prepared tomato paste and water mixture over the stuffed potatoes.
- Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve and Enjoy:
- Once the stuffed potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
- Serve the stuffed potatoes hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese for the topping. Cheddar, gouda, or even a spicy pepper jack can add unique flavors.
- Vegetable Additions: Add other vegetables to the meat mixture, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach, for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Herbs and Spices: Customize the seasoning by adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or oregano to the meat mixture for additional flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair the stuffed potatoes with a side of steamed vegetables, a fresh salad, or a light soup to make a complete meal.
This stuffed potatoes with ground meat recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty and flavorful meal with minimal effort. The combination of tender potatoes, savory ground meat, and melted cheese creates a dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or looking for a satisfying meal to share with friends, this recipe is a winner.
Share Your Experience:
I hope you enjoy making and eating these delicious stuffed potatoes. Share this recipe with friends and family, and let me know how it turned out for you. If you have any favorite variations or tips, I’d love to hear about them. Enjoy this comforting dish, and see you in the next recipe adventure!
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