Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the potatoes clean and prick them all over with a fork. Rub them generously with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack for about an hour, or until they are fork-tender.
- While the potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning mix with the cooked beef; set aside.
- After baking, let the potatoes cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the insides, leaving a thin shell of potato.
- In a large bowl, combine the scooped potato with the beef mixture, cheddar cheese, bacon, ranch dressing, salt, and pepper.
- Fill each potato skin with the hearty beef and cheese mixture, packing it in tightly.
- Arrange the stuffed potato halves on a baking sheet and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
How to serve Crispy Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Stuffed Potato Bombs
These stuffed potato bombs are as delicious as they are versatile. Serve them alongside a fresh side salad or crispy coleslaw to balance the richness. For an extra kick, drizzle a bit of hot sauce or extra ranch dressing over them just before serving. Don’t forget napkins—they’re going to get messy and delicious!
Keeping leftovers fresh
To store any leftovers, allow the stuffed potato bombs to cool completely. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Just wrap each stuffed potato in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. They will stay fresh for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until heated through to maintain that crispy texture.
Pro chef tips
To ensure your bacon stays crispy, crumble it into pieces right after cooking while it’s still warm. This technique also guarantees even distribution throughout the filling. If you’re in a rush, you can opt for pre-cooked bacon; just make sure to use thick-cut for the best flavor. Want to elevate your dish? Add finely chopped green onions or jalapeños into the potato mixture for an extra burst of flavor!
Creative twists
Feel adventurous? Try adding toppings such as sautéed onions or mushrooms for an umami boost. You could even experiment by swapping out ranch seasoning for taco seasoning for a zesty Mexican-inspired flavor. Vegetarian? Just use black beans or chickpeas in place of ground beef, and consider adding diced bell peppers for texture.
FAQs
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Prep time is about 20 minutes, but you’ll need about an hour for baking the potatoes. Overall, expect to spend around 1.5 hours from start to finish.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffed potatoes a day ahead, refrigerate, and simply bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for ranch dressing?
If you’re looking to experiment, consider using garlic aioli or a spicy chipotle mayo for a different flavor profile.
Enjoy these Crispy Bacon Ranch Cheeseburger Stuffed Potato Bombs at your next get-together, and let the flavors do the talking!
