Melty Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Potato Skins are the ultimate comfort food mashup! They combine the crispy, cheesy goodness of potato skins with the savory flavors of a bacon cheeseburger. Perfect for game day, parties, or a fun dinner idea. Here’s how to make them:
Ingredients
- 4 medium russet potatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1/2 lb (225g) ground beef
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup cooked bacon, crumbled (about 6-8 slices)
- 1/4 cup diced pickles (optional, for that classic burger flavor)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion (optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp mustard
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the potatoes clean, pat them dry, and prick them all over with a fork.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender. Let them cool slightly.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the potatoes are baking, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Season with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
- Prepare the Potato Skins:
- Once the potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut them in half lengthwise. Scoop out most of the flesh, leaving about 1/4-inch of potato attached to the skin. (Save the scooped-out potato for another use, like mashed potatoes or hash browns.)
- Brush the inside and outside of the potato skins with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place them skin-side down on a baking sheet.
- Assemble the Skins:
- Fill each potato skin with a layer of cooked ground beef.
- Top with shredded cheddar cheese and crumbled bacon.
- Add diced pickles and red onion if desired.
- Bake:
- Return the stuffed potato skins to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Prepare the Burger Sauce:
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, ketchup, and mustard.
- Serve:
- Drizzle the burger sauce over the potato skins or serve it on the side for dipping.
- Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Success:
- For extra crispy potato skins, broil them for 1-2 minutes after baking.
- Customize the toppings with your favorite burger ingredients, like sliced tomatoes, jalapeños, or even a fried egg.
- Use ground turkey or plant-based meat as a substitute for ground beef if desired.
- Make sure to let the potatoes cool slightly before handling to avoid burning your hands.
Nutritional Values (Per Serving, assuming 8 skins):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~300-350 kcal |
| Total Fat | ~18-20 g |
| – Saturated Fat | ~7-8 g |
| Cholesterol | ~50-60 mg |
| Sodium | ~500-600 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | ~20-25 g |
| – Dietary Fiber | ~2 g |
| – Sugars | ~2 g |
| Protein | ~15-18 g |
Why You’ll Love These:
- They’re a fun and creative twist on two classic favorites: potato skins and cheeseburgers.
- The combination of melty cheese, crispy bacon, and savory beef is irresistible.
- They’re perfect for sharing or enjoying as a hearty snack or meal.
Enjoy these Melty Bacon Cheeseburger Stuffed Potato Skins at your next gathering or as a special treat! 🥔🍔🧀