Loaded Baked Potato with Spiced Ground Beef and Cheese – A Meal Under 500 Calories
Loaded Baked Potato with Spiced Ground Beef and Cheese
Ingredients (Serves 4)
– 4 medium-sized baking potatoes (about 200g each) – 160 calories each
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (112g) – 450 calories
– 1 pound lean ground beef (454g, 90% lean) – 800 calories
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped (110g) – 44 calories
– 2 cloves garlic, minced – 8 calories
– 1 teaspoon olive oil – 40 calories
– 1 teaspoon chili powder – 6 calories
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin – 8 calories
– 1 teaspoon paprika – 6 calories
– 1/2 teaspoon salt – negligible calories
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – negligible calories
– 1/2 cup low-fat sour cream (120g) – 80 calories
– 2 green onions, sliced – 10 calories
Total Calories: 1662
Calories per Serving: 415.5
Instructions
– Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Wash and dry the potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
– Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
2. **Cook the Ground Beef:**
– While the potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
– Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
– Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 8-10 minutes.
– Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. **Season the Ground Beef:**
– Stir in the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. **Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:**
– Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly.
– Cut a slit down the center of each potato and gently squeeze the ends to open them up.
– Fluff the inside of the potatoes with a fork and divide the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly among the potatoes.
– Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the beef-topped potatoes.
5. **Final Touches:**
– Return the potatoes to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
– Remove from the oven and top each potato with a dollop of low-fat sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced green onions.
Portion Size and Calorie Count
Each serving consists of one loaded baked potato with 1/4 of the spiced ground beef mixture, approximately 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of green onions. The total calorie count per serving is approximately 415.5 calories, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal under 500 calories.
Enjoy this delicious and balanced recipe that’s perfect for a filling lunch or dinner! IT’S SO GOOD!