Chili Cheese Baked Potatoes Recipe

 There’s nothing quite like a warm, crispy baked potato smothered in rich, hearty chili and topped with gooey melted cheese. Chili Cheese Baked Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food — satisfying, customizable, and downright delicious. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea, an easy weeknight meal, or even a hearty snack for game day, this recipe checks all the boxes. Plus, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor! Here’s how you can whip up this irresistible dish.

Ingredients

For the Baked Potatoes:

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

For the Chili:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 ½ teaspoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Toppings:

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Sour cream (optional)
• Sliced green onions
• Chopped fresh cilantro
• Diced jalapeños (for a spicy kick)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep and Bake the Potatoes

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Scrub the potatoes thoroughly under water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Use a fork to poke a few holes in each potato to allow steam to escape while baking.
3. Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them evenly with salt and pepper. Place them directly on the oven rack or a baking sheet.
4. Bake for about 50-60 minutes, or until the outsides are crispy and the insides are tender. You can check doneness by inserting a knife or fork — it should glide through easily.

Step 2: Make the Chili

1. While the potatoes are baking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes, and drain any excess grease.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, tomato paste, chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
5. Lower the heat and allow the chili to simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the flavors meld together. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Assemble the Chili Cheese Baked Potatoes

1. Once the potatoes are out of the oven, use a knife to slice them open lengthwise. Be careful — they’ll be hot!
2. Fluff the inside of each potato with a fork to create space for the toppings.
3. Spoon a generous helping of chili into each potato. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top while the chili is still hot, letting it melt slightly.
4. Finish with your favorite toppings like sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeños.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Chili Cheese Baked Potatoes immediately while they’re warm and gooey. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a simple side salad or steamed veggies for a well-rounded meal.

Tips for Customization

1. Make It Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for plant-based meat or add extra beans like black beans or pinto beans for a protein boost.
2. Spice It Up: Add chopped jalapeños to the chili for extra heat or use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar.
3. Go Big on Toppings: Crumbled bacon, diced avocado, or a drizzle of hot sauce can take these potatoes to the next level.
4. Use Sweet Potatoes: For a twist, try using sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes. The natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the savory chili.

Final Thoughts

Chili Cheese Baked Potatoes are everything you want in a meal — warm, comforting, and filling. They’re easy to make, fun to customize, and a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to hit the spot. Give it a try, and don’t forget to play around with the toppings to make it uniquely yours!