Baked potatoes with chili combine two comfort foods into one hearty, satisfying meal. The crispy potato skin paired with fluffy, steamy insides, topped with a rich, flavorful chili makes for a dish that pleases the palate and warms the soul. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or an easy game-day snack, this recipe will hit the spot. Let’s dive into the details and tips to make this dish a standout.

Ingredients

Before starting, gather all the ingredients to save time:

For the Baked Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper

For the Chili:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Toppings (Optional):

• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped green onions
• Jalapeño slices
• Fresh cilantro

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly, scrubbing off any dirt. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Poke a few holes in each potato with a fork, which allows steam to escape as they bake.

Next, coat the potatoes in olive oil and sprinkle them with salt and pepper. This step helps create a crispy skin. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces through. While the potatoes are baking, it’s the perfect time to prepare the chili.

2. Cook the Chili

In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute, being careful not to burn it.

Next, add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once the beef is browned and fully cooked, drain any excess fat from the pan. Stir in the tomato paste, chili powder, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, ensuring the beef is well coated with spices. This step enhances the flavor of the chili.

Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, and broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The chili should thicken slightly and develop a rich flavor.

3. Assemble the Dish

Once the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut a slit down the center of each potato and fluff the insides with a fork. Be careful not to break the skin.

Spoon a generous amount of chili over each potato. The contrast between the fluffy potato and hearty chili is what makes this dish so satisfying. Add your favorite toppings for an extra burst of flavor and texture. Shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully over the hot chili, while a dollop of sour cream adds creaminess. Fresh green onions or cilantro provide a refreshing finish.

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Tips for the Best Baked Potatoes with Chili

1. Use Russet Potatoes: Their starchy texture ensures a fluffy interior and crispy skin when baked.
2. Don’t Skip the Oil: Coating the potatoes in olive oil before baking gives them that desirable crispy skin.
3. Simmer the Chili: Allowing the chili to simmer gives the flavors time to meld and deepen. For an even richer taste, make the chili a day ahead.
4. Customize the Toppings: Feel free to get creative with the toppings. Avocado slices, hot sauce, or even crushed tortilla chips can add unique flavors and crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is versatile and easy to adapt. You can make the chili vegetarian by using plant-based meat or simply omitting the meat and adding more beans or vegetables. Additionally, this meal is budget-friendly and great for meal prepping. Simply bake extra potatoes and store the chili separately for quick reheating throughout the week.

Creative Topping Ideas for Chili Baked Potatoes

When it comes to topping your chili baked potatoes, the possibilities are endless. Adding the right toppings can elevate your dish from simple to spectacular. Whether you prefer something cheesy, creamy, crunchy, or fresh, there’s a combination to suit every palate. Let’s explore some creative topping ideas to inspire your next meal.

1. Cheesy Goodness

To start, cheese is a classic choice. While shredded cheddar is a favorite, consider trying other cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even crumbled blue cheese. These options melt beautifully over hot chili, creating a rich, gooey layer that complements the potatoes and chili. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle nacho cheese sauce on top.

2. Creamy Additions

Next, adding creamy toppings enhances the overall texture of your dish. Sour cream is a traditional favorite, but you can also experiment with Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Another idea is to add guacamole or sliced avocado, which brings a buttery, refreshing flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a dollop of crema or a drizzle of ranch dressing.

3. Fresh and Zesty

Fresh toppings bring balance to the richness of the chili and potatoes. Chopped green onions add a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, while diced tomatoes or pico de gallo offer a burst of freshness. For a zesty kick, sprinkle on fresh cilantro or add pickled jalapeños. A squeeze of lime juice can also brighten up the flavors.

4. Crunchy Elements

For those who love a bit of crunch, consider adding crushed tortilla chips, corn chips, or crispy fried onions. These toppings add a satisfying texture contrast to the soft potatoes and hearty chili. If you want something unique, try toasted breadcrumbs or even crushed pretzels.

5. Spicy Heat

If you enjoy spice, there are plenty of ways to turn up the heat. Besides jalapeños, you can add hot sauce, chili flakes, or sliced serrano peppers. Another option is to drizzle spicy sriracha mayo over the top for a creamy yet fiery finish.

6. Protein Boosts

For a protein-packed meal, you can top your chili baked potatoes with additional cooked ingredients. Think crispy bacon bits, grilled chicken, or even sautéed mushrooms. These toppings not only add flavor but also make the dish even more filling.

7. Unique and Fun Options

Lastly, don’t be afraid to get creative. Add a fried egg for a breakfast twist, or sprinkle everything bagel seasoning for a fun flavor boost. Another idea is to top the potatoes with coleslaw, adding a crunchy, tangy contrast to the chili.

Conclusion

Baked potatoes with chili offer a comforting, hearty meal that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of textures—from the crispy potato skin to the hearty chili—makes each bite a delight. Try this recipe for your next cozy night in, and don’t forget to customize it with your favorite toppings!