Introduction:
If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dinner that’s easy to whip up and totally satisfying, say hello to these Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes. We're talking about baked potatoes with fluffy centers, crisp skins, and a gooey, meaty, cheesy filling that hits every craving—salty, savory, creamy, and just a little indulgent.
Perfect for busy weeknights, weekend gatherings, or game day eats, this stuffed potato recipe takes your humble spud and turns it into the main event. With a rich beef filling, melty cheese, and your favorite toppings, these loaded potatoes are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You'll Love These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes
-
🧡 Budget-friendly and made with pantry staples
-
🧡 Perfectly satisfying for lunch or dinner
-
🧡 Endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings
-
🧡 Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
-
🧡 Gluten-free and hearty enough for meat-lovers
Ingredients You'll Need
Here’s what goes into this cheesy, beefy stuffed potato deliciousness:
-
4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed and baked
-
1 lb ground beef
-
1 small onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or more—go wild)
-
1/2 cup sour cream
-
1/4 cup milk or cream (to make it creamy)
-
1 tablespoon butter
-
1/2 teaspoon paprika
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
-
Optional toppings: green onions, bacon bits, hot sauce, extra cheese
How to Make Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes
Step 1: Bake the potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Poke each potato with a fork, rub with a little oil and salt, then bake for 45–60 minutes until tender inside and crispy outside.
Step 2: Cook the beef filling
While the potatoes are baking, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Drain excess grease, then stir in salt, pepper, and paprika.
Step 3: Scoop out the potatoes
Once your baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides into a bowl—leave a little edge so the skins hold their shape.
Step 4: Make the cheesy filling
Mash the scooped-out potato with butter, sour cream, milk, and shredded cheese. Fold in the cooked beef mixture until everything is creamy and combined.
Step 5: Fill and bake again
Spoon the beefy, cheesy filling back into the potato skins. Top with a little extra cheese and pop them back in the oven at 375°F for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Step 6: Add toppings and serve!
Top with green onions, sour cream, or crispy bacon bits. Dig in while they’re hot and melty.
Tips and Variations
-
🔁 Swap the beef: Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles all work great.
-
🧀 Try different cheeses: Pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack add fun twists.
-
🥦 Sneak in veggies: Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
-
🌶️ Spice it up: Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef filling.
What to Serve with Stuffed Potatoes
These cheesy beef stuffed baked potatoes are super satisfying on their own, but if you want a full meal, pair them with:
-
🥗 A simple green salad or Caesar salad
-
🥦 Steamed broccoli or roasted vegetables
-
🍞 Garlic bread or dinner rolls
-
🧃 A cold drink or glass of wine for date night
Make-Ahead and Storage
-
🧊 Make ahead: Prep the stuffed potatoes up to a day in advance. Cover and refrigerate before the final bake.
-
🔥 Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes or microwave until hot.
-
❄️ Freeze: Wrap individually in foil and freeze. Reheat from frozen for an easy dinner!
Final Thoughts
These Cheesy Beef Stuffed Potatoes are a weeknight dinner hero, a game day go-to, and a freezer-friendly meal prep idea all in one. Packed with bold flavor, comforting textures, and cheesy goodness, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
So the next time you're staring at a bag of potatoes wondering what to do, this is it. Grab your cheese, cook up some beef, and treat yourself to a loaded spud worth savoring!
Comments
Post a Comment