Cajun Stuffed Potatoes

Ingredients

In this adaptation, the traditional Lithuanian Cepelinai is transformed into Cajun Stuffed Potatoes by incorporating the vibrant flavors of New Orleans. The original dish, which consists of potato dumplings filled with meat, is modified to feature hollowed-out potatoes stuffed with a mixture of ground meat, vegetables, and Cajun spices. This adaptation infuses the dish with the bold and spicy flavors characteristic of Cajun cuisine, giving it a unique twist that pays homage to the culinary traditions of New Orleans. We alse have the original recipe for Cepelinai, so you can check it out.

• 4 large potatoes 4 large potatoes
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 1 bell pepper, finely chopped 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil 1/4 cup (60ml) vegetable oil
• Chopped green onions, for garnish Chopped green onions, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 25g, 8g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 30g, 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. 2.
   Wash the potatoes thoroughly and pierce them with a fork. Place them on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
3. 3.
   While the potatoes are baking, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté until they become soft and translucent.
4. 4.
   Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat.
5. 5.
   Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. 6.
   Remove the baked potatoes from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut each potato in half lengthwise and carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving a thin layer of potato intact.
7. 7.
   Mash the scooped-out potato flesh and combine it with the cooked ground beef mixture.
8. 8.
   Stuff each potato shell with the beef and potato mixture, pressing it down gently.
9. 9.
   Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet and bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.
10. 10.
    Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Potatoes — Choose starchy potatoes like Russet or Idaho potatoes for the best texture and flavor.
• Cajun seasoning — If you can't find Cajun seasoning, you can make your own by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried thyme, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra kick of heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the ground beef mixture.
• Serve the Cajun Stuffed Potatoes with a dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy remoulade sauce for added creaminess and flavor.
• Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables like corn or celery for added texture and flavor.
• Make a vegetarian version by substituting the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils.
• Leftover Cajun Stuffed Potatoes can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave for a quick and delicious meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Cajun Stuffed Potatoes as a main course accompanied by a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. They can also be served as a hearty appetizer or party snack.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Cajun Stuffed Potatoes on a platter, garnish with chopped green onions, and serve them piping hot. The golden brown crust and the vibrant colors of the filling will make for an enticing presentation.