Name: Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potato: A Delicious & Easy Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 75 min
Total time: 95 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 large baking potatoes (Russet or Idaho preferred); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend recommended); 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped; 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained; 1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained; 1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided; 1/2 cup sour cream, plus more for topping; 1/4 cup chopped green onions, plus more for topping; Salt and pepper to taste

Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potato: Prepare to experience a weeknight dinner revolution! Imagine sinking your teeth into a fluffy, perfectly baked potato, overflowing with a savory, seasoned hamburger filling. It's comfort food elevated, a delightful twist on two classic favorites that will have your family begging for seconds. Forget boring baked potatoes – this is a complete meal in one satisfying package.

While the exact origins of stuffing baked potatoes are a bit murky, the concept of using potatoes as a vessel for delicious fillings has been around for centuries. Potatoes themselves, originating in the Andes, have become a global staple, adapted and embraced by countless cultures. This particular combination, the Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potato, likely emerged as a creative way to utilize leftover hamburger meat, transforming it into something truly special.

What makes this dish so irresistible? It's the perfect marriage of textures and flavors. The creamy, soft potato provides a comforting base, while the seasoned hamburger adds a hearty, savory punch. The customizable toppings – think shredded cheese, sour cream, chives, or even a dollop of salsa – allow everyone to personalize their own culinary masterpiece. Plus, it's incredibly convenient! This Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potato recipe is relatively quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you crave a delicious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to transform your dinner routine!

Ingredients:

4 large baking potatoes, Russet or Idaho preferred
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef (80/20 blend is great for flavor)
1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (15 ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
1 (1 ounce) packet taco seasoning
1/2 cup beef broth
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese, divided
1/2 cup sour cream, plus more for topping
1/4 cup chopped green onions, plus more for topping
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional toppings: bacon bits, jalapenos, avocado, salsa

Preparing the Potatoes:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This higher temperature will help the potatoes bake quickly and develop a nice crispy skin.
Wash the potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Use a scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris. We want clean potatoes!
Dry the potatoes completely with a clean kitchen towel. This helps the olive oil adhere better and promotes crisping.
Prick each potato several times with a fork. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing them from exploding (and making a mess!).
Rub each potato with olive oil. Make sure to coat the entire surface of each potato. The olive oil helps the skin crisp up beautifully.
Sprinkle the potatoes generously with salt and pepper. Don't be shy! This adds flavor to the skin.
Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack. This allows for even heat circulation and maximum crisping. If you're worried about drips, you can place a baking sheet on the rack below to catch any potential messes.
Bake for 60-75 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork. The baking time will vary depending on the size of your potatoes. You want them to be soft and fluffy inside.
Once baked, remove the potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before handling. They'll be hot!

Making the Hamburger Filling:

While the potatoes are baking, prepare the hamburger filling. In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Drain off any excess grease from the skillet. Nobody wants greasy stuffed potatoes!
Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. The onions should be translucent and the peppers slightly tender.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), kidney beans (rinsed and drained), taco seasoning, and beef broth to the skillet.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remember, taco seasoning can be salty, so taste before adding more salt.

Assembling the Stuffed Potatoes:

Carefully cut each baked potato lengthwise, almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through! You want to keep the potato intact.
Gently fluff the inside of each potato with a fork. This creates more room for the filling and makes the potato even fluffier.
Stir 1/2 cup of the shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of sour cream into the hamburger filling. This adds creaminess and cheesy goodness to the filling.
Spoon the hamburger filling generously into each potato pocket. Don't be shy! We want these potatoes to be fully loaded.
Top each stuffed potato with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
Place the stuffed potatoes back in the oven (or under the broiler) for a few minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning!

Serving and Enjoying:

Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
Top with additional sour cream, green onions, bacon bits, jalapenos, avocado, or salsa, if desired. Get creative with your toppings!
Serve immediately and enjoy! These Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potatoes are best enjoyed hot.

Tips and Variations:

Potato Choice: While Russet or Idaho potatoes are classic, you can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a slightly creamier texture.
Meat Options: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the ground beef.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of taco seasoning to your liking. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapenos to the filling.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the ground beef and add more beans or vegetables, such as corn, black beans, or zucchini.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the hamburger filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Simply reheat it before stuffing the potatoes.
Freezing: While you can freeze these, the texture of the potato might change slightly. If you do freeze them, wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then in foil. Thaw completely before reheating in the oven.

Serving Suggestions:

These Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potatoes are a complete meal on their own, but you can also serve them with a side salad or some steamed vegetables.

Nutritional Information (approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.

Calories: Approximately 600-800 per potato
Protein: 30-40 grams
Fat: 30-40 grams
Carbohydrates: 60-80 grams

Enjoy your delicious and satisfying Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potatoes!

Conclusion:

And there you have it! This Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potato recipe is truly a game-changer for weeknight dinners or even a fun weekend treat. I know, I know, it sounds almost too good to be true – the comforting familiarity of a baked potato, elevated with the savory goodness of a perfectly seasoned hamburger filling. But trust me, once you take that first bite, you'll understand why I'm so enthusiastic about it. Why is this a must-try? Well, beyond the incredible flavor combination, it's incredibly versatile and customizable. It's a complete meal in one neat package, offering a satisfying balance of carbohydrates, protein, and (depending on your toppings!) plenty of vegetables. Plus, it's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum deliciousness. Forget complicated recipes with endless ingredients lists – this one is straightforward and approachable, even for novice cooks. But the real magic lies in the adaptability. Feel free to experiment with different ground meats. Ground turkey or chicken would work beautifully, offering a leaner alternative. Or, for a vegetarian option, try using crumbled plant-based burger patties or even a hearty lentil filling. The possibilities are truly endless! Speaking of possibilities, let's talk toppings! While I've suggested some of my favorites in the recipe, don't be afraid to get creative. A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds a tangy coolness. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese melts into gooey perfection. Diced tomatoes, green onions, or even a scoop of guacamole bring a fresh, vibrant element. And for those who like a little heat, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes will kick things up a notch. For serving suggestions, these Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potatoes are fantastic on their own as a complete meal. However, if you're looking to round out the meal, consider serving them with a simple side salad or some steamed vegetables. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette would provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the potatoes. Or, some steamed broccoli or green beans would add a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals. Another fun variation is to use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes. The sweetness of the sweet potato pairs surprisingly well with the savory hamburger filling, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. You could also try using different types of cheese, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick or Gruyere for a more sophisticated flavor. I truly believe this recipe will become a staple in your household. It's quick, easy, delicious, and endlessly customizable. It's the perfect solution for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a fun and satisfying lunch. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your potatoes, your ground beef, and your favorite toppings, and get cooking! I'm confident you'll love this Hamburger Stuffed Baked Potato as much as I do. And most importantly, I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe as is, or did you put your own spin on it? What were your favorite toppings? What did your family think? Share your photos and comments below – I can't wait to see your creations! Happy cooking!