Stuffed Potatoes with Salsa & Beans

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Stuffed Potatoes are a delicious and comforting meal that’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for almost any occasion. The combination of baked potatoes, seasoned beans, and tangy salsa creates a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The dish is filling enough to be a main course but light enough to be enjoyed as a side or snack. It’s also great for meal prepping, as the filling can be made in advance and the potatoes baked ahead of time. Plus, this recipe is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 4 medium russet potatoes (or any potato of your choice)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 1 teaspoon chili powder

• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1 cup salsa (store-bought or homemade)

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

• Optional toppings: avocado, vegan sour cream, or shredded vegan cheese

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Bake the potatoes: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pierce them with a fork a few times. Rub each potato with a little olive oil and season with a pinch of salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are soft and easily pierced with a fork.

2. Prepare the bean filling: While the potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Season the beans: Add the black beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the beans are heated through and the spices are fragrant. If the mixture gets too dry, add a splash of water or vegetable broth.

4. Prepare the potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and scoop out the flesh, leaving a small border around the edges so the potato skin stays intact. Place the scooped-out potato flesh in a bowl and mash it lightly with a fork.

5. Stuff the potatoes: Mix the mashed potato with the seasoned bean mixture until combined. Carefully spoon the filling back into the potato skins, pressing it down gently to ensure it’s evenly distributed.

6. Top with salsa: Spoon a generous amount of salsa over the stuffed potatoes, and return them to the oven for an additional 10 minutes, just to warm everything through.

7. Serve: Remove the stuffed potatoes from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Optional toppings include avocado slices, vegan sour cream, or shredded vegan cheese.

8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 60 minutes (for baking potatoes)

• Total Time: 70 minutes

Variations

• Different Beans: You can substitute black beans with other beans like pinto beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas for a different flavor and texture.

• Add Veggies: Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or corn to the bean mixture for added texture and flavor.

• Cheesy Version: Top the stuffed potatoes with shredded vegan cheese and bake for an extra 5 minutes for a cheesy, melty topping.

• Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce to the salsa for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat the stuffed potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes work great in this recipe! They will add a slightly sweeter flavor and a different texture to the dish.

2. Can I use other types of beans?

Yes, you can use other beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or even chickpeas for a different taste and texture.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the potatoes and prepare the bean filling ahead of time. When you’re ready to serve, just stuff the potatoes, top with salsa, and bake for a few minutes to warm everything through.

4. Can I make this recipe spicier?

Yes, you can increase the amount of chili powder or cayenne pepper, or add fresh chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the bean mixture for more heat.

5. Can I add cheese to this recipe?

Yes, you can add vegan cheese to the stuffed potatoes. Simply sprinkle some shredded vegan cheese on top of the stuffed potatoes before baking for a cheesy twist.

6. Can I use store-bought salsa?

Yes, store-bought salsa works perfectly in this recipe, but you can also make your own for a fresh, homemade touch.

7. Can I freeze the stuffed potatoes?

Yes, you can freeze the stuffed potatoes before or after baking. Just let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil, and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.

8. Can I add other toppings to the potatoes?

Yes! You can top the potatoes with avocado slices, fresh herbs, vegan sour cream, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

9. Can I use russet potatoes or other potato varieties?

Yes, russet potatoes are perfect for this recipe, but you can also use Yukon gold or red potatoes if you prefer. Russets are ideal because they have a light, fluffy texture when baked.

10. Can I use canned potatoes?

Using canned potatoes is not ideal for this recipe, as fresh potatoes offer a better texture and flavor. Fresh potatoes also hold up better when stuffed.

Conclusion

Stuffed Potatoes with Salsa & Beans is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together hearty, nutritious ingredients in one satisfying meal. The combination of creamy potatoes, seasoned beans, and tangy salsa makes for a filling and delicious dish that is perfect for any time of day. Whether you enjoy it as a main course, snack, or side dish, it’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings and add-ins! Enjoy!