Loaded Beef and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes
These hearty stuffed potatoes feature tender baked potatoes generously filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and a fluffy potato mash. Topped with fresh avocado and served with crusty bread, it's a complete and satisfying meal.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly and prick them several times with a fork. Rub each potato with a little olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until very tender when squeezed.
- While the potatoes are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir the paprika, salt, and pepper into the cooked beef. Cook for another minute, then remove from heat.
- Once the potatoes are done, carefully slice each potato in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the fluffy potato flesh into a medium bowl, leaving a thin border of potato attached to the skin to maintain its shape. Mash the scooped-out potato flesh until smooth.
- Add the seasoned ground beef and 3/4 cup of the shredded cheese to the mashed potatoes. Mix well to combine.
- Spoon the potato and beef mixture back into the empty potato skins, mounding it slightly. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over the top of each stuffed potato.
- Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the filling is heated through.
- While the potatoes finish baking, slice the avocado. Serve the hot stuffed potatoes immediately, topped with fresh avocado slices and accompanied by slices of your favorite bread.
These Loaded Beef and Cheese Stuffed Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, perfect for a cozy evening at home. The combination of savory beef, creamy potato, and gooey cheese creates a truly satisfying experience. It’s a fantastic way to utilize simple ingredients to create a dish that feels both special and deeply comforting.