Save Fluffy baked potatoes topped with a hearty blend of beans, tomatoes, and warming spices make an irresistibly comforting meal. This satisfying dish is both budget-friendly and packed with wholesome goodness that will fill you up any day.
I first enjoyed chili-style baked potatoes on a chilly evening when comfort food was the answer. It quickly became a family favorite for weeknight dinners because everyone loves customizing their own toppings.
Ingredients
- Potatoes: 4 large russet potatoes, scrubbed
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 medium, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Bell pepper: 1, diced
- Ground cumin: 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Smoked paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Dried oregano: ½ teaspoon
- Chopped tomatoes: 1 can (400 g/14 oz)
- Kidney beans: 1 can (400 g/14 oz), drained and rinsed
- Black beans: 1 can (400 g/14 oz), drained and rinsed
- Salt: ½ teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Cayenne pepper: Pinch (optional)
- Shredded cheddar cheese: 60 g (½ cup, optional)
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt: 4 tablespoons (optional)
- Spring onions: 2, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh cilantro: Chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Bake the potatoes:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Prick potatoes several times with a fork, rub with a little salt, and place directly on the oven rack. Bake for 50–60 minutes, until tender when pierced with a knife.
- Prepare the chili:
- While potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell pepper for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add spices:
- Stir in cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Simmer chili mixture:
- Add chopped tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, salt, black pepper, and cayenne (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble the potatoes:
- When potatoes are ready, split them open and fluff insides with a fork. Spoon generous amounts of chili over each potato.
- Add toppings and serve:
- Add desired toppings and serve hot.
Save Sharing these potatoes around the dinner table brings everyone together, especially when each person chooses their favorite toppings. It's an easy way to connect and enjoy a heartwarming meal.
Required Tools
You'll need an oven, saucepan, wooden spoon, and a knife with cutting board for this recipe.
Allergen Information
The dish only contains dairy if you use cheese or sour cream. Double-check labels for all ingredients if you have sensitivities.
Nutritional Information
Each serving (without toppings) provides about 370 calories, 5 g fat, 66 g carbohydrates, and 14 g protein, making it a filling meal.
Save Serve these baked potatoes piping hot for maximum comfort, and let everyone enjoy their favorite toppings for a personalized touch.
Common Questions
- → How do I ensure the potatoes are perfectly baked?
Prick the potatoes a few times with a fork, rub them lightly with salt, and bake directly on the oven rack at 200°C (400°F) for 50-60 minutes until tender.
- → Can I use different beans in the topping?
Yes, pinto or cannellini beans can be substituted for kidney or black beans to vary the flavor and texture.
- → What spices give the chili its flavor?
The chili topping uses ground cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, and dried oregano to create a warm, layered flavor profile.
- → Are there options for vegan toppings?
For a vegan meal, skip the cheese and sour cream or replace them with plant-based alternatives like vegan cheese or coconut yogurt.
- → How can I make the topping thicker?
Simmer the chili uncovered for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to reduce excess liquid and thicken the mixture.