Crispy baked potato slices with cheesy filling
There’s something incredibly satisfying about turning simple ingredients into a delicious meal, especially when they come together as easily as these stuffed potato slices. This dish is not only hearty and flavorful, but it also makes for a great family dinner or even a crowd-pleasing appetizer. The potatoes get crispy on the outside while staying soft inside, and the cheesy meat filling takes it to the next level. You can customize the spices and herbs based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile recipe to keep in your rotation. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ingredients!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple ingredients come together for a comforting dish.
- Easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat.
- The combination of crunchy potatoes and savory filling is irresistible.
- Can be customized with different meats or spices.
- Kids and adult-friendly, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 large potatoes (about 2 pounds / 900 g)
- 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
- A pinch of salt
- 150 g (1 ½ cups) grated mozzarella cheese
- 350 g (¾ pound) minced meat (beef, poultry, or plant-based)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons (30 g) tomato sauce
- 6 sprigs of fresh coriander, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 100 g (1 cup) grated mozzarella cheese (for topping)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (392°F) with both top and bottom heat.
- Peel and wash the potatoes. Using a mandolin or a sharp knife, slice them thinly, about 1 mm thick.
- Season the potato slices lightly with a pinch of salt.
- Line a baking tray with parchment paper and sprinkle 150g of grated mozzarella evenly on it.
- Arrange the potato slices overlapping each other on top of the cheese to form a single layer.
- Drizzle 2 tablespoons of olive oil over the potatoes, ensuring each slice is coated lightly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes until the edges are golden and crispy.
- While the potatoes are baking, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic for about 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the minced meat to the pan, cooking until browned and cooked through. This should take around 5-7 minutes, depending on the meat.
- Stir in the tomato sauce, ½ teaspoon salt, black pepper, curry powder, paprika, and half of the chopped coriander. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Once the mixture is combined, remove from heat and mix in 100g of grated mozzarella, allowing it to melt slightly from the residual heat.
- Remove the potato slices from the oven. Spoon the meat mixture onto each slice and roll them up while still hot. Take care to keep the filling inside.
- Return the stuffed potato rolls to the oven for another 5 minutes, using only the top heat to melt the cheese further.
- Garnish with the remaining coriander leaves before serving hot. Enjoy your delicious stuffed potato slices with a side salad or dipping sauce!
Pro Tips
- For extra crispiness, try broiling the potatoes for the last few minutes of baking.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for a unique flavor, such as cheddar or feta.
- Letting the meat mixture cool slightly before filling the potatoes can make it easier to handle.
- If you have leftovers, they make for a tasty lunch the next day!
Common Mistakes
- Not slicing the potatoes thin enough can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overfilling the potato slices can cause them to burst during baking.
- Forgetting to grease the parchment can lead to sticking.
- Baking time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on the potatoes to prevent burning.
Variations
- Swap the minced meat for cooked lentils or beans for a vegetarian option.
- Add some diced bell peppers or mushrooms to the meat mixture for extra vegetables.
- Spice up the filling with some chopped jalapeños for a kick.
- Replace mozzarella with a combination of Swiss and Gruyère for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
These stuffed potato slices can be served as an appetizer, a main course, or even at a party as finger food. Pair them with a simple side salad or a tangy dipping sauce, such as sour cream or a zesty yogurt sauce, to enhance the flavors.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They can also be frozen before baking, making them a great make-ahead meal.
Reheating Tips
Reheat stuffed potato slices in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. This helps maintain the crispness of the potatoes.
Nutrition Estimate
Per serving (based on 6 servings): Approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbs, 18g fat.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Course: Appetizer/Main Course
Calories: 350
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato slices and filling in advance, then bake when ready to serve.
What type of potatoes should I use?
Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work well due to their texture.
Can I bake them without the meat?
Absolutely! You can fill them with roasted vegetables or just cheese for a lighter option.
What if I don’t have coriander?
Parsley or even chives can be used as a substitute for a fresh garnish.
Enjoy this delightful stuffed potato slices recipe, and watch your family gather around the table for seconds!
