Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
Large Russet Potatoes: 4
Ground Beef or Turkey: 1 pound
Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded
Sour Cream: 1/2 cup
Green Onions: 3, chopped
Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon
Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Paprika: 1 teaspoon (optional for flavor)
Optional Toppings:
Bacon Bits: For added crunch
Fresh Parsley or Chives: Chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Potatoes: Scrub the potatoes clean and pierce them several times with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 45-60 minutes, or until they are tender when pierced with a fork.
Cook the Filling: While the potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat and season with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Remove from heat and stir in half of the shredded cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
Stuff the Potatoes: Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out a portion of the flesh, creating a hollow shell. Mix the scooped-out potato with sour cream and the meat mixture until well combined.
Fill and Top: Spoon the filling back into the potato halves, packing them generously. Top with the remaining shredded cheddar cheese.
Final Bake: Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Garnish with bacon bits and fresh parsley or chives before serving.