In the heart of my kitchen, the aroma of freshly baked potatoes always takes me back to simpler days—meals shared with family, laughter echoing off the walls, and the joyous anticipation of digging into that first bite. Enter my Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes, a delightful mash-up that brilliantly combines cheesy goodness with the satisfying flavors of a beloved cheeseburger. These tasty gems are a dream come true for any comfort food lover, offering a hearty meal that’s not only quick to whip up but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With options for customization, these loaded potatoes can become your go-to family favorite, giving you plenty of reasons to step away from takeout. So, could this comforting dish be the cozy dinner you’ve been craving? Why Will You Love These Potatoes? Hearty Comfort Food: When you’re craving something cozy and filling, these Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes deliver! Loaded with Flavor: Imagine the rich taste of seasoned ground beef perfectly blended with creamy mashed potatoes and gooey cheddar cheese. Quick and Easy: This recipe is straightforward—perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re entertaining friends. Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in different proteins or add toppings like jalapeños or avocado for a unique twist. Family-Friendly Treat: Everyone will love these tasty potatoes, making them the ideal choice for dinner. Check out my Baked Stuffed Shrimp for another family favorite! Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes Ingredients For the Potatoes • Baked Potatoes – 8 baking potatoes; use russet for the best fluffy texture. • Canola Oil – 3 tablespoons; helps achieve a crispy skin. Feel free to swap in olive oil for a different flavor. • Kosher Salt – 1 tablespoon; enhances the overall flavor. Reduce if using table salt. For the Filling • Ground Beef – 2 pounds; brings that classic cheeseburger flavor. Substitute with ground turkey or a plant-based option if you prefer. • Yellow Onion – ½ cup, finely diced; adds sweetness and depth to the filling. • Ketchup – 1 cup; essential for that delicious cheeseburger taste. • Yellow Mustard – 2 tablespoons; provides a tangy contrast to the richness of the filling. • Hamburger Seasoning – 2 tablespoons; infuses the mixture with spice and complexity. Try a homemade blend with garlic and smoked paprika. • Seasoned Salt – 1 teaspoon; simplifies seasoning while delivering great taste. • Garlic Powder – 1 teaspoon for filling; adds depth of flavor. • Heavy Whipping Cream – ½ cup; ensures a creamy mashed potato texture. Opt for milk for a lighter version. • Unsalted Butter – ¼ cup (½ stick); boosts creaminess in the potatoes. • Black Pepper – ¼ teaspoon; season with a hint of spice. For the Topping • Sharp Cheddar Cheese – 1 cup shredded, divided; adds rich flavor and gooeyness. Mozzarella serves as a milder substitute. • Dill Pickles – ½ cup diced for garnish; adds refreshing crunch and zing. Green olives are a nice alternative. • Tomatoes – Diced for garnish; brightens up the dish with a fresh touch. Dive into this comforting dish and savor the joy of family meals made easy with these Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Potatoes Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it heats up, scrub the baking potatoes under cold water to clean them thoroughly. Using a fork, pierce each potato several times to prevent them from bursting in the oven. Then, rub the potatoes with canola oil and sprinkle them generously with kosher salt to enhance their flavor. Step 2: Bake the Potatoes Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for approximately 1 hour. You’ll know they’re ready when they feel fork-tender and the skin is slightly crisp. To ensure uniform cooking, rotate the potatoes halfway through the baking time. Once done, carefully remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly. Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and diced yellow onion. Cook while stirring occasionally for about 7-10 minutes, or until the beef is browned and the onions are translucent. Be sure to drain any excess fat from the skillet before proceeding to the next step, as you want a savory, not greasy, filling for your Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes. Step 4: Add Flavor to the Filling Stir in the ketchup, yellow mustard, hamburger seasoning, seasoned salt, and garlic powder into the beef and onion mixture. Allow everything to simmer together for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently to combine the flavors. This step is crucial as it helps to infuse the filling with that classic cheeseburger taste, which makes these twice baked potatoes irresistible. Step 5: Scoop Out the Potatoes Once the baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice off the tops of each potato carefully. Use a spoon to scoop out the insides into a mixing bowl, leaving a sturdy shell behind. Be gentle while hollowing them out to avoid tearing the skins, which are essential for holding the savory filling of your Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes. Step 6: Prepare the Potato Filling In the mixing bowl with the potato flesh, add the heavy whipping cream, butter, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and half of the sharp cheddar cheese. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy, ensuring there are no lumps. This will create a delightful, flavorful base that complements the rich cheeseburger filling perfectly. Step 7: Stuff the Potato Shells Carefully spoon the mashed potato mixture back into the potato shells, filling them generously. Next, top each filled potato with the seasoned ground beef mixture, ensuring an even distribution. Finally, sprinkle the remaining sharp cheddar cheese over the top of each potato, allowing it to melt beautifully while baking. Step 8: Bake Again Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the stuffed potatoes back onto a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and the cheese is melted. For an extra bubbly and crispy top, you can broil them on high for an additional 1-2 minutes. Keep a close eye on them to prevent burning. Step 9: Garnish and Serve Once out of the oven, let the Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes cool slightly. Garnish each potato with diced dill pickles and fresh tomatoes for an added crunch and freshness. Serve them warm and enjoy the heartwarming flavors of a cherished family recipe that everyone will love! What to Serve with Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes Imagine the flavors of a backyard BBQ shining through your dinner table, making every bite a celebration of comfort and delight. Crispy Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the potatoes beautifully. Homemade Coleslaw: The crunch and creaminess of coleslaw add a refreshing contrast, enhancing the overall meal experience. Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread adds a comforting touch and is perfect for mopping up any leftover cheesy goodness on the plate. Roasted Veggies: Try a medley of seasonal roasted vegetables for a nutrient-packed side dish that balances the meal with vibrant colors and textures. Spicy Jalapeño Poppers: For those who love a little kick, these poppers introduce a fun, spicy element alongside the hearty potatoes. Chilled Beer or Lemonade: Pair with a cold craft beer or a refreshing homemade lemonade for a delightful drink option that heightens the dining experience. Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note! Warm chocolate chip cookies bring nostalgia and comfort to round out this hearty dinner. Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes Variations Feel free to personalize your Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes with these delightful twists that inspire creativity and flavor! Ground Turkey: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey for a lighter option that still packs a punch. Vegetarian Delight: Swap meat for black beans or lentils, and add more spices for a hearty vegetarian version. Spicy Kick: Mix in some finely diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to add an exciting kick to your cheeseburger filling. Cheese Variety: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for heat or a cheese blend for extra ooey-gooey goodness. Flavor Boost: Enhance the filling by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted garlic, bringing depth of flavor to every bite. Healthier Swap: Use Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream and butter to lighten up the mashed potato base without sacrificing creaminess. Crunchy Topping: Top with crispy bacon bits or fried onions for a delightful crunch that complements the soft interior. Garnish Variations: Instead of pickles, try fresh avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream to add a creamy finish to each potato. For more cheesy adventures, check out my scrumptious Baked Cod Coconut or indulge in Garlic Butter Potatoes as perfect side dishes! How to Store and Freeze Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes Fridge: Store your Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Freezer: For longer storage, these potatoes can be frozen for up to 2 months. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen potatoes overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy. Assembly Tip: If you plan to freeze them, consider baking just the potato shells first. Then, prepare the filling and stuff them right before you’re ready to bake for the first time! Make Ahead Options These Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a hearty dinner with minimal effort on busy nights! You can prepare the filling and stuff the potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the instructions until the end of Step 7, then cover the assembled potatoes and refrigerate. To maintain their quality, avoid topping with cheese until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to serve, just preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), sprinkle with remaining cheese, and bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through. This way, you’ll have a comforting, delicious meal ready in no time! Expert Tips for Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes • Cooling Time: Allow baked potatoes to cool slightly before scooping; this prevents burns and makes handling easier. • Gentle Hollowing: Be careful when scooping out the potato insides to avoid tearing the shells; keep them sturdy for filling. • Crispy Top: For a delightful crunch, broil your stuffed potatoes for 1-2 minutes after baking to achieve that perfect golden finish. • Flavor Boosts: Don’t hesitate to customize flavors! Add spices or different toppings to elevate your Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes. • Storage Success: Leftovers can be refrigerated for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 2 months—just reheat in the oven for best results. Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes Recipe FAQs What kind of potatoes should I use for Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes? I recommend using russet potatoes for the best fluffy texture, as they hold up well when baked twice and offer that classic, hearty taste. How long can I store Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes in the refrigerator? These delicious potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Just make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup. Can I freeze Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes? Absolutely! You can freeze these tasty potatoes for up to 2 months. Wrap each potato tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven for 20-25 minutes at 350°F (175°C). What should I do if my potatoes are too soft or fall apart when scooping? If your baked potatoes are too soft, it often means they might have been overcooked. To maintain structure next time, keep an eye on them during baking; they should be fork-tender but still firm. Additionally, when scooping out the insides, use a gentle touch and make sure to leave enough potato to form a sturdy shell. Are Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes suitable for special diets? These potatoes are quite versatile! To make them gluten-free, ensure that all your condiments, like ketchup and mustard, are gluten-free. You can also substitute ground beef for turkey or plant-based protein alternatives, making it a great choice for different diets. Just check that any toppings or sides you serve with also meet your dietary needs! What toppings can I add to customize my Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes? You can get creative with toppings! Try adding diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, crispy bacon bits for crunch, or fresh avocado for creaminess. I also love adding a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives. The more the merrier—experiment and find your perfect combination! Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss Cheeseburger Twice Baked Potatoes are a delightful mash-up of cheesy goodness and classic cheeseburger flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 potatoesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes8 pieces baking potatoes use russet for best texture3 tablespoons canola oil feel free to swap in olive oil1 tablespoon kosher salt reduce if using table saltFor the Filling2 pounds ground beef substitute with ground turkey or plant-based option0.5 cup yellow onion finely diced1 cup ketchup essential for cheeseburger taste2 tablespoons yellow mustard provides a tangy contrast2 tablespoons hamburger seasoning try homemade with garlic and smoked paprika1 teaspoon seasoned salt1 teaspoon garlic powder for filling0.5 cup heavy whipping cream opt for milk for lighter version0.25 cup unsalted butter boosts creaminess0.25 teaspoon black pepperFor the Topping1 cup sharp cheddar cheese shredded, divided0.5 cup dill pickles diced for garnishtomatoes diced for garnish Equipment OvenMixing bowlSkilletbaking sheet Method PreparationPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and scrub the baking potatoes under cold water. Pierce each potato several times with a fork, rub with canola oil, and sprinkle with kosher salt.Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for about 1 hour, rotating halfway through. Allow to cool slightly after baking.Cooking the FillingIn a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and diced onion for 7-10 minutes until browned. Drain excess fat.Stir in ketchup, yellow mustard, hamburger seasoning, seasoned salt, and garlic powder. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes.Assembling PotatoesSlice off the tops of the cooled baked potatoes and scoop out the insides into a bowl, leaving a sturdy shell.Mix potato flesh with heavy whipping cream, butter, garlic powder, kosher salt, black pepper, and half the cheddar cheese until smooth.Spoon the mixture back into the potato shells, top with the beef mixture, and sprinkle remaining cheddar cheese.BakingPreheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place stuffed potatoes on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes until heated through.Optional: Broil on high for 1-2 minutes for a crispy top.Garnish with diced pickles and fresh tomatoes before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1potatoCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg NotesAllow baked potatoes to cool slightly before handling. Be gentle when hollowing them out to keep the skins intact. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
