Introduction
Loaded baked potatoes are a classic comfort food that never fails to impress. With fluffy russet potatoes filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, creamy sour cream, and melted cheddar cheese, this dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a fun get-together with friends. The addition of green onions adds a fresh touch, while optional toppings like bacon and hot sauce give it a personalized flair.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 2 large russet potatoes
– 1 cup cooked ground beef (seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder)
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (plus extra for topping)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped green onions or chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: crumbled bacon, hot sauce, or ranch drizzle
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 75–80 minutes
Total Time: 95 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
With its hearty filling and delectable flavors, this loaded baked potato recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy every comforting bite!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Bake the Potatoes
Preheat the oven to 400°F. Scrub the potatoes clean, pat them dry, and pierce each several times with a fork. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 50–60 minutes until the skins are crispy and the insides are tender.
2. Prepare the Filling
Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer to maintain the shell’s structure. In a bowl, mash the scooped-out potato with sour cream, butter, half of the shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and pepper until smooth.
3. Add Meat and Green Onions
Incorporate the cooked ground beef and chopped green onions into the mashed potato mixture. Mix thoroughly and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Stuff and Bake Again
Spoon the filling back into the potato shells, mounding slightly. Sprinkle the remaining cheddar cheese on top. Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.
5. Optional Toppings
Before serving, garnish with crumbled bacon, a drizzle of hot sauce, or ranch dressing if desired.
Notes
Potato Selection
Choose large russet potatoes for the best results as they have a good balance of starch and moisture, resulting in a fluffy interior.
Ground Beef Seasoning
Make sure the ground beef is well seasoned before mixing it into the potato filling. You can adjust the seasonings based on your flavor preference.
Cheese Variations
Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or mozzarella for a unique flavor profile.
Storage
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potatoes make a great side dish or a hearty main course. They pair well with a simple salad or steamed vegetables.
Cook techniques
Baking Potatoes
To achieve crispy skins and tender insides, the potatoes are baked at 400°F. Piercing the potatoes with a fork allows steam to escape, preventing them from bursting in the oven.
Mashing Potatoes
After baking, the potatoes are sliced and the insides scooped out. The flesh is mashed with sour cream, butter, and cheese, creating a creamy and flavorful filling. It’s essential to leave some potato in the skin for structure.
Mixing Fillings
To enhance flavor, cooked ground beef is added to the mashed potato mixture along with chopped green onions. Mixing ensures that the savory beef and fresh onions are evenly distributed throughout the filling.
Stuffing Potatoes
The mashed potato filling is spooned back into the potato shells, mounded slightly for a hearty portion. This technique ensures that each bite contains a balance of potato and filling.
Second Baking
The stuffed potatoes are baked again at 375°F to melt the cheese on top and achieve a golden brown finish. This second bake enhances the overall texture and flavor.
Optional Toppings
Garnishing the stuffed potatoes with options like crumbled bacon or drizzles of hot sauce or ranch dressing adds extra flavor and visual appeal, elevating the dish further.
FAQ
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, while russet potatoes are ideal for baking and stuffing due to their fluffy texture, other varieties like Yukon Gold can be used for a creamier filling.
How do I know when the potatoes are done baking?
Potatoes are done when they are soft inside and the skins are crispy. You can test by inserting a fork or knife; it should go in easily.
Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! The filling can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just stuff the potatoes and bake when ready to serve.
Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Yes! You can replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or black beans and add additional vegetables for a delicious vegetarian filling.
How do I store leftover stuffed potatoes?
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This loaded baked potato recipe is a delicious way to enjoy the hearty combination of creamy mashed potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and gooey cheese. It’s the perfect comfort food and can easily be customized with your favorite toppings for a delightful meal.
Beef and Broccoli Stuffed Potatoes
Transform your stuffed potatoes by adding steamed broccoli to the filling for a nutritious twist. Incorporate teriyaki sauce for a fun Asian-inspired flavor.
BBQ Chicken Loaded Potatoes
Swap the ground beef for shredded BBQ chicken. Top with mozzarella cheese and maybe some coleslaw for a refreshing crunch.
Vegetarian Tex-Mex Potatoes
Use black beans or lentils instead of meat, and add corn, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning to create a flavorful vegetarian filling. Serve with avocado slices on top.
Breakfast Loaded Potatoes
Start your day with a breakfast version by adding scrambled eggs, diced bell peppers, and breakfast sausage to the filling. Top with cheese and serve with salsa.
Buffalo Cauliflower Stuffed Potatoes
For a spicy twist, blend roasted cauliflower tossed in buffalo sauce into the filling. Add blue cheese crumbles for extra flavor.
Smoky Cheddar and Spinach Potatoes
Mix in sautéed spinach and smoked cheddar cheese for a rich and satisfying filling, perfect for a cozy night in.
