Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and surprisingly healthy? Look no further! This baked potato with spicy sausage crumble recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend supper. Forget boring baked potatoes – this recipe elevates the classic to a whole new level of flavor and texture. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, providing a delicious and nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
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For the Potatoes:
- 2 large russet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For the Spicy Sausage Crumble:
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
Preparing the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly. Pierce each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.
- Rub the potatoes with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces the center.
Making the Sausage Crumble:
- While the potatoes are baking, prepare the sausage crumble. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the sausage to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the onion and bell pepper to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chili powder, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro.
Assembling the Dish:
- Once the potatoes are cooked, carefully remove them from the oven.
- Cut each potato in half lengthwise.
- Spoon the spicy sausage crumble generously over the baked potato halves.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to your loaded baked potatoes.
- Cheese lovers: Sprinkle shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite cheese over the sausage crumble before serving.
- Vegetarian option: Substitute the sausage with crumbled vegetarian sausage or a mixture of sauteed mushrooms and vegetables.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sausage crumble for an extra kick.
- Make it a meal prep: Prepare the sausage crumble ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for a quick and easy weeknight meal.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 (depending on toppings and sausage type) Protein: 25-30g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This baked potato with spicy sausage crumble recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that are both flavorful and convenient. It's a recipe that easily adapts to your preferences, making it a versatile addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual get-together. Enjoy!