Donegal Potatoes
Hearty Donegal Potatoes feature seasoned ground beef, sautéed vegetables, and melted cheese over baked potatoes, offering comforting flavors perfect for a satisfying family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large (10 to 12-inch) frypan, heat olive oil.
- In the heated oil, sauté chopped onion and green pepper until the onion is transparent, but not brown.
- Remove the sautéed onion and green pepper from the pan and keep warm.
- Add lean ground beef to the pan and cook until browned.
- Stir in drained sliced mushrooms.
- In a separate pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil.
- Add beef bouillon packets and Kitchen Bouquet to the boiling water, then stir in cornstarch to thicken.
- Pour the gravy over the cooked beef and vegetables.
- Bake the baking potatoes until tender, then cut in half and scoop out some flesh.
- Fill the potato shells with the beef mixture, top with slices of white American cheese.
- Place the stuffed potatoes in the oven until the cheese melts.
- Serve hot, garnished if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider substituting turkey or chicken instead of lean ground beef for a lighter option. You can also use a mix of bell peppers for added color and flavor. If you don't have Kitchen Bouquet, a splash of soy sauce can serve as a substitute to enhance the gravy. For a creamier texture, add a dollop of sour cream to the beef mixture before stuffing the potatoes.
Serving Suggestions
These Donegal Potatoes are delightful served alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of chives on top can enhance the presentation and flavor. For a heartier dinner, pair with a slice of crusty bread. They also make a great side dish to accompany beef recipes for a comforting feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them for quicker reheating, but the oven will help keep the cheese melted and the potatoes crispy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Donegal Potatoes contains roughly 575 calories, with 10g protein, 105g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin D (33% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and protein (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture and bake the potatoes in advance. Store the beef mixture in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the beef and fill the potatoes, then bake until the cheese is melted. This is a great option for meal prep!
What type of cheese can I use instead of white American cheese?
You can substitute white American cheese with cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Each cheese will impart a different flavor, so choose according to your preference. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to achieve that delightful topping.
What can I serve with Donegal Potatoes?
These potatoes are versatile and pair well with a variety of sides, such as a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. For a more substantial meal, consider serving them alongside a hearty soup like Borscht Dr. or a simple side of garlic bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).