Step 1: Prepare the potato skins
Mash the potatoes: Boil the peeled potatoes until tender with a fork. Drain and allow to cool slightly before mashing in a large bowl until smooth.
Combine ingredients: Add the egg, grated parmesan, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, salt and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix well until well combined. The mixture should be firm enough to hold its shape when formed into shells.
Form into shells: Use your hands or a mold to form the potato mixture into shells, creating a well in the center of each shell for the beef filling. Place these shells on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the beef filling
Mix ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the ground beef with the finely chopped onion, salt, pepper and a pinch of chili to add some heat. Mix well until all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Form beef portions: Take small portions of the beef mixture and form them into balls or patties that fit into the wells of the potato skins.
Step 3: Assemble the skins
Fill the potato skins: Place the beef portions into the wells of the potato skins and press down slightly to ensure a snug fit. The beef should fill the wells without spilling over the sides of the skins.
Step 4: Prepare the topping
Mix ingredients for the topping: In a bowl, combine the shredded cheese, diced cherry tomatoes and mayonnaise. Stir well until the cheese is coated with the mayonnaise and the tomatoes are evenly distributed.
Add the topping: Spoon the cheese and tomato mixture over the beef in each potato skin and spread it lightly to cover the beef. This topping will melt and form a delicious, golden crust during baking.
Step 5: Bake the potato skins
Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).
Bake: Place the stuffed potato skins on the baking sheet in the preheated oven. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the beef is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Cool slightly before serving: After baking, let the skins cool on the sheet for a few minutes. This will help them to set and make them easier to handle.
Serve and enjoy: Transfer the potato skins to a serving platter and enjoy warm. They’re perfect as a side dish with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for perfect cheesy potato skins with ground beef:
Choose the right potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like russets for a fluffy mash that holds together well when you form the skins.
Customize fillings: Feel free to add extras like sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or shredded zucchini to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrients.
Cheese options: While mozzarella or cheddar are great, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gruyere, provolone, or a blend of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Prep ahead: You can make these skins ahead of time up until the baking step. Just cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready to serve.