Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes with Savory Beef Filling

Preparation Time

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Difficulty Level

• Intensity: Medium

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 1/2 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 green onions, sliced (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pierce each potato several times with a fork. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 1 hour, or until tender.
2. Prepare the Beef Filling: While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3. Cook the Onions and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Prepare the Potato Shells: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4-inch thick shell. Place the potato flesh in a bowl.
6. Mix the Potato Filling: Mash the potato flesh with the sour cream, butter, and 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Stuff the Potatoes: Spoon the beef mixture into the potato shells, then top with the mashed potato mixture. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
8. Bake the Stuffed Potatoes: Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 550
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 100mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 5g

Tips

• For a lighter version, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.
• Add some cooked vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition.

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Enjoy your Cheesy Stuffed Potatoes with Savory Beef Filling! This comforting dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special gathering.