Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter version)
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or chicken broth as an alternative)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes clean, dry, and prick with a fork. Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place on a baking sheet or directly on the rack. Bake for 50–60 minutes until skins are crisp and insides are soft.
- While potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for one minute.
- Add ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in tomato paste, mixing well. Add peas and carrots, followed by the broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Remove potatoes from oven. Let cool slightly, then slice lengthwise without cutting through completely. Gently scoop out most of the potato flesh into a bowl, leaving sturdy shells.
- Mash the scooped potato flesh with butter and warm milk until creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
- Fill potato shells with the meat and vegetable mixture. Top each with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
- Return filled potatoes to the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, until cheese melts and topping turns golden.
- Remove from oven, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
Use ground turkey instead of ground beef for a lighter version.
Lentils or plant-based protein can make this dish vegetarian.
Add corn, green beans, or mushrooms for extra vegetables.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt can make mashed potatoes extra creamy.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes