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Baked Potato Bowls Filled With Savory Ground Beef - A Cozy, Satisfying Dinner

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients
  

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 pound ground beef (85–90% lean)
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional for mild heat)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack
  • Sour cream, for serving
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
  • Butter or a splash of milk (optional, for fluffing potato centers)

Method
 

  1. Prep and bake the potatoes: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Scrub the potatoes, dry them, then rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil and a pinch of salt. Prick each potato a few times with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack and bake 45–60 minutes, until skins are crisp and a knife slides in easily.
  2. Start the beef filling: While potatoes bake, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Brown the beef: Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Season with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
  4. Build flavor: Stir in tomato paste, smoked paprika, chili powder, and oregano. Cook 1 minute to toast the spices.
  5. Simmer: Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Reduce heat and simmer 3–5 minutes until thick and saucy. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Make the potato bowls: When potatoes are done, let cool 5 minutes. Cut each lengthwise. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving a 1/4-inch border so the skins hold their shape. Place the scooped potato in a bowl.
  7. Fluff the insides (optional but great): Mash the scooped potato with a pat of butter, a splash of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spoon a little back into each skin for a fluffy base.
  8. Fill and top: Divide the beef mixture among the potato bowls. Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
  9. Melt and finish: Return the filled potatoes to the oven for 5–7 minutes until the cheese melts and edges crisp slightly. Top with sour cream, green onions, and herbs.
  10. Serve: Serve hot with a simple green salad or steamed veggies.