Twice Baked Potatoes with Meat and Cheese Filling

When it comes to comfort food, nothing beats a warm, cheesy, and hearty dish that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. Twice-baked potatoes are a classic favorite, but when you take them to the next level with a savory meat and cheese filling, they transform into a complete meal all on their own. This recipe for Twice-Baked Potatoes with Meat and Cheese Filling combines fluffy potato, seasoned meat, gooey melted cheese, and tangy sour cream for the ultimate side dish or main course.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just craving something cozy and indulgent, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to win hearts at the dinner table.

Why This Recipe Works

The beauty of twice-baked potatoes is in the layering of flavors and textures. Baking the potatoes once allows the skins to crisp up and the insides to become perfectly tender. Scooping out the flesh and combining it with flavorful add-ins creates a creamy, savory filling that’s then baked again until bubbly and golden.

Here’s why this version is extra special:

Ground meat adds protein – turning this from just a side dish into a hearty, satisfying meal.

Cheese and sour cream bring creaminess and tang, creating a filling that’s smooth and flavorful.

Green onions and garlic powder add freshness and depth, so every bite bursts with flavor.

The “twice-baked” step ensures the cheese melts perfectly and the tops get beautifully golden and irresistible.

It’s a recipe that feels indulgent but is simple to make with everyday ingredients.

What You’ll Need for This Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up these delicious twice-baked potatoes:

4 large russet potatoes – Their starchy texture makes them perfect for baking and holding up to the filling.

1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey – Use whichever protein you prefer. Beef gives a rich flavor, while turkey is lighter.

1 cup shredded cheese – Cheddar is a classic choice, but feel free to use mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend.

1/2 cup sour cream – Adds tanginess and creaminess to balance the richness.

1/4 cup milk – Helps make the filling smooth and fluffy.

1/4 cup green onions, chopped – Brings freshness and a pop of color.

1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the overall flavor.

Salt and pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning.

Optional toppings: more shredded cheese, crumbled bacon, chives, or even a dollop of extra sour cream.

How to Make Twice-Baked Potatoes with Meat and Cheese Filling

Step 1: Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub your russet potatoes clean and poke holes in them with a fork to let steam escape. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for 45–60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork. This first bake ensures the skins crisp up and the insides get fluffy.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

Once baked, let the potatoes cool slightly so they’re easier to handle. Slice each potato lengthwise and carefully scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a thin layer inside the skins for structure.

Step 3: Mix It All Together

Add the cooked ground beef (or turkey), shredded cheese, sour cream, milk, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the bowl of scooped potato. Mash and mix until smooth, creamy, and fully combined. The filling should be rich and cheesy with a nice balance of flavors.

Step 4: Stuff the Skins

Spoon the filling back into the potato skins, piling it high and evenly. If you’d like, sprinkle extra cheese on top for a gooey finish.

Step 5: Bake Again

Place the stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for another 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tops are golden brown.

Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite.

Tips + Tricks for Recipe Success

Pick the right potatoes: Russets work best because their skins are sturdy and their insides are fluffy.

Don’t over-scoop: Leave a thin layer of potato inside the skin so it doesn’t collapse.

Pre-cook the meat: Make sure your ground beef or turkey is fully cooked and well-seasoned before mixing it in.

Make it extra cheesy: Stir in different cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness or pepper jack for a little spice.

Meal prep friendly: You can make these ahead of time, refrigerate, and simply reheat when ready to serve.

Serving Suggestions

Twice-baked potatoes with meat and cheese can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or as a side dish. Here are some great pairings:

As a main course: Serve with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

As a side dish: Pair with grilled steak, roasted chicken, or even barbecue ribs.

Game day favorite: Cut them into halves or quarters for hearty appetizers that guests can grab easily.

Family dinner: Add a side of garlic bread and steamed broccoli for a cozy and filling meal.

Variations to Try

This recipe is versatile, so don’t be afraid to get creative:

Tex-Mex style: Add taco seasoning to the meat and top with salsa, jalapeños, and sour cream.

Loaded potato: Mix in bacon bits and extra cheese for a restaurant-style loaded baked potato.

Veggie twist: Swap meat for sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for a vegetarian version.

Spicy kick: Add hot sauce or crushed red pepper flakes to the filling for extra heat.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Freezer: Freeze unbaked stuffed potatoes (after the first bake and stuffing) for up to 2 months. Wrap individually in foil for best results.

Reheating: Bake refrigerated potatoes at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For frozen ones, bake straight from the freezer, adding extra time as needed.

Timing Information

Prep time: 15 minutes

First bake: 45–60 minutes

Mixing & stuffing: 10 minutes

Second bake: 15–20 minutes

Total time: About 1 hour 30 minutes

Final Thoughts

These Twice-Baked Potatoes with Meat and Cheese Filling are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, hearty, and satisfying. They can easily stand alone as a meal or serve as the ultimate side dish for a family dinner or special occasion. With endless ways to customize them, this recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

So next time you’re looking for a cozy dish that everyone will love, bake up a batch of these stuffed potatoes—you won’t regret it!

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