Cheeseburger-Style Stuffed Potatoes with Meatballs

Cheeseburger-Style Stuffed Potatoes with Meatballs are a fun and hearty twist on the classic baked potato. Featuring fluffy potato filled with a cheesy, tangy mixture and topped with juicy homemade meatballs, this dish combines all the flavors of a cheeseburger in a satisfying and creative presentation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe brings together the best of two comfort food favorites—cheeseburgers and baked potatoes. The creamy, flavorful potato filling pairs perfectly with tender, savory meatballs, while classic toppings like cheddar cheese, pickles, and ketchup add familiar, delicious notes. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s easy to prepare and great for casual dinners or gatherings.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 large russet potatoes

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1/2 pound ground beef

• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 egg

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1/4 cup ketchup

• 2 tablespoons mustard

• 1/4 cup diced pickles

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the potatoes: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes and prick each one several times with a fork. Rub with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and bake directly on the oven rack for 45–60 minutes, or until fork-tender. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Make the meatballs: In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, egg, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined. Form into 1-inch meatballs.

3. Cook the meatballs: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 10–12 minutes. Set aside.

4. Prepare the potato filling: Cut the baked potatoes in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a 1/4-inch shell. Mash the scooped potato in a bowl.

5. Mash and mix: Stir cheddar cheese, ketchup, mustard, diced pickles, green onions, salt, and pepper into the mashed potatoes until creamy.

6. Stuff the potatoes: Spoon the filling evenly into the potato shells. Place on a baking sheet.

7. Top with meatballs: Arrange 2–3 meatballs on top of each stuffed potato. Sprinkle with any remaining cheddar cheese if desired.

8. Finish in the oven: Return the potatoes to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese is melted.

9. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes (includes potato baking time)
Total time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Calories: Approximately 550 kcal per serving

Variations

• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños to the potato mixture or a dash of hot sauce.

• Bacon addition: Stir cooked crumbled bacon into the potato filling.

• Mini version: Use small potatoes and make mini meatballs for appetizer portions.

• Vegetarian option: Use plant-based ground meat or veggie meatballs in place of beef.

Storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Can I bake the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the potatoes a day in advance. Reheat slightly before scooping and filling.

Can I use pre-made meatballs?

Yes, store-bought cooked meatballs can be used for convenience.

What other cheese works well in this recipe?

Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a cheese blend all work nicely.

Can I freeze stuffed potatoes?

It’s possible, but the texture may change slightly. Freeze before the final bake and thaw before reheating.

How can I make this dish lighter?

Use lean ground beef or turkey, low-fat cheese, and skip or reduce the added condiments.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet?

Yes, but the flavor profile will be sweeter. Adjust toppings as desired.

How do I prevent the potato shells from tearing?

Scoop carefully with a spoon, leaving enough potato flesh along the sides for structure.

What sides go well with stuffed potatoes?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make excellent accompaniments.

Can I grill the meatballs instead of pan-cooking?

Yes, grilling the meatballs adds extra flavor.

How do I make the filling extra creamy?

Add a splash of milk or a bit of sour cream when mashing the potato flesh.

Conclusion

Cheeseburger-Style Stuffed Potatoes with Meatballs are a fun, satisfying dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to customize. With their hearty potato base, tangy filling, and juicy meatball topping, they make for a crowd-pleasing meal that brings a fresh twist to classic comfort food.