Name: Best Chili Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 15 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes; 1 lb ground beef; 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed; 1 onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tbsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/4 cup sliced green onions

Best chili stuffed baked potatoes always remind me of a cozy night at home when I wanted something hearty and fun without making a big mess and I remember baking some big russet potatoes until they were perfectly fluffy on the inside and crisp on the outside and then filling them with a rich, meaty chili I had simmering on the stove and as I added the cheese, sour cream, and green onions on top I felt so excited to dig in and that first loaded bite was pure comfort and totally satisfying.

Now I make these best chili stuffed baked potatoes whenever I want a meal that feels like a treat but is still easy to put together and I love how the soft potato pairs with the bold, spicy chili and all the fun toppings make each bite extra delicious and it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even game day because everyone can customize their own potato just the way they like it.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Russet potatoes – Big and fluffy, the perfect base for all the chili goodness.
Ground beef – Makes the chili hearty and satisfying.
Kidney beans – Add creaminess and extra protein to the chili.
Onion – Adds savory depth to the chili base.
Garlic – Brings warmth and rich flavor.
Bell pepper – Adds sweetness and color.
Crushed tomatoes – Create a rich, hearty sauce for the chili.
Tomato paste – Deepens the flavor and thickens the chili.
Chili powder – Adds that signature bold, spicy kick.
Ground cumin – Brings warmth and earthiness.
Olive oil – For cooking the beef and veggies.
Salt and black pepper – Essential seasonings to bring it all together.
Cheddar cheese – Melts perfectly on top.
Sour cream – Adds a cool, creamy contrast.
Green onions – Fresh and crisp for garnish.

Tools You’ll Need

Baking sheet – To roast the potatoes evenly.
Large pot or Dutch oven – For simmering the chili.
Knife – For chopping veggies and slicing the potatoes.
Cutting board – Keeps prep work tidy and safe.
Spoon – To scoop out and serve the toppings.

Instructions

Step 1: Bake the potatoes

I scrub the potatoes, poke a few holes with a fork, rub them with olive oil and salt, and bake at 400°F for about 50 to 60 minutes until tender.

Step 2: Cook the chili

In a large pot, I heat olive oil and brown the ground beef, breaking it up as it cooks. I add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic and cook until softened.

Step 3: Add spices and tomatoes

I stir in chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, followed by tomato paste and crushed tomatoes. I add the kidney beans and let the chili simmer for about 30 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 4: Prepare the potatoes

Once baked, I cut a slit down each potato and gently fluff the insides with a fork to make room for the chili.

Step 5: Assemble

I spoon a generous amount of chili into each potato, then top with shredded cheddar, a dollop of sour cream, and sliced green onions.

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Tips

I always choose large russet potatoes so there’s plenty of room for the fillings. You can make the chili ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve. For a spicier kick, I sometimes add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the chili.

Ways to Serve

I love serving these with a crisp side salad or some roasted veggies for a complete meal. You can also set up a toppings bar so everyone can customize their own potato with things like avocado, hot sauce, or extra cheese.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make best chili stuffed baked potatoes ahead of time?

Yes! Bake the potatoes and make the chili in advance, then assemble and reheat when ready to serve.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes?

Definitely! They add a delicious sweet contrast to the savory chili.

What other toppings can I add to best chili stuffed baked potatoes?

Avocado, diced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, or crispy bacon bits are all amazing options.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you try these best chili stuffed baked potatoes soon! They’re cozy, fun, and totally satisfying a meal that feels special but is so easy to make. Let me know how yours turn out and don’t forget to save this recipe for your next comfort food craving.

Happy Cooking!