Stuffed Potato Cups with Savory Meat and Cheese Filling

Transform ordinary potatoes into an extraordinary dish that looks restaurant-quality but requires only simple ingredients you likely have at home. These golden potato cups filled with seasoned meat, vegetables, and melted cheese create the perfect combination of crispy exterior and creamy, flavorful interior that will have your family asking for seconds.

Ingredients

  • 5-6 large potatoes (about 1.2 kg / 2.5 lbs)
  • 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (45 ml / 3 tbsp)
  • 250g minced meat (8.8 oz / ½ lb)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped (150g / 5 oz)
  • 1 medium carrot, finely diced (100g / 3.5 oz)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon salt (5g / 1 tsp)
  • 1 teaspoon Italian herbs (5g / 1 tsp)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (2.5g / ½ tsp)
  • 1 teaspoon paprika (5g / 1 tsp)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (30g / 2 tbsp)
  • 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
  • 100g cheese, grated (3.5 oz / 1 cup)
  • 2 spring onions, chopped (30g / 2 tbsp)
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (30ml / 2 tbsp)
  • 50g Parmesan cheese, grated (1.8 oz / ½ cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the potatoes: Wash and peel the large potatoes. Place them in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook for exactly 5 minutes to partially soften.
  2. Pan-fry the potatoes: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the partially cooked potatoes and fry until golden brown on all sides, turning frequently for even browning.
  3. Create potato cups: Allow potatoes to cool slightly, then carefully hollow out the center of each potato using a spoon or small knife, leaving about 1cm walls. Finely chop the removed potato flesh and set aside.
  4. Prepare the filling: In the same skillet, cook the minced meat until browned. Add chopped onions, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Season with salt, Italian herbs, black pepper, and paprika. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8-10 minutes.
  5. Combine filling ingredients: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped potato flesh, fresh dill, chopped hard-boiled eggs, grated cheese, spring onions, and mayonnaise. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  6. Stuff and bake: Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F). Fill each potato cup generously with the meat and vegetable mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
  7. Final baking: Place stuffed potatoes on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until the tops are golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 5-6 people

Nutrition (per serving):
Calories: 420 | Protein: 18g | Carbohydrates: 35g | Fat: 24g | Fiber: 4g

Why This Recipe is Perfect for You

These stuffed potato cups offer exceptional nutritional value while delivering incredible taste. Potatoes provide essential potassium and vitamin C, supporting heart health and immune function. The protein-rich minced meat and eggs help build and repair muscles, while the vegetables add vital vitamins and fiber for digestive health. The combination of herbs and spices not only enhances flavor but also provides antioxidants that support overall wellness. This balanced meal satisfies hunger while delivering nutrients your body needs, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or special occasions when you want to impress guests with both presentation and nutrition.