Chili-Cheese Jackets

INTRODUCTION

Chili-Cheese Jackets are a delicious and hearty dish that combines the comfort of baked potatoes with a spicy and savory chili topping. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal any time of the year. The combination of tender potatoes with a flavorful beef and bean chili creates a filling and satisfying dish that everyone will enjoy. Whether it’s for a family dinner or a gathering with friends, Chili-Cheese Jackets are sure to be a hit.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love making Chili-Cheese Jackets for many reasons. First, they are simple to prepare. With straightforward ingredients and easy steps, you can have a delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen. Second, they are customizable. You can adjust the spice level and toppings according to your taste. Third, they are nutritious! With potatoes, lean beef, beans, and healthy toppings, you get a balanced meal in one dish. Lastly, these jackets are great for gatherings. They are easy to serve and everyone can top their jacket as they like. This makes them perfect for parties or family get-togethers.

HOW TO MAKE Chili-Cheese Jackets

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Chili-Cheese Jackets, you will need some basic kitchen tools:

• Baking tray
• Large frying pan
• Knife and cutting board
• Fork
• Spoon for mixing
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients You’ll Need :

• 4 baking potatoes
• 3 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 500g beef mince (12 percent fat)
• 1 tsp fine sea salt
• 2 tbsp chipotle paste
• 2 tbsp Black Garlic Paste
• 3 tbsp tomato purée
• 50g pickled jalapeños, chopped
• 2 tbsp jalapeño brine
• 1 pinch sugar
• 400g can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 400g can chopped tomatoes
• 80g vintage Cheddar, grated
• 4 tbsp soured cream
• Half pack coriander, leaves picked

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the potatoes for 1 hour or until tender.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cumin seeds, cooking until the onion is soft.
3. Add the beef mince to the pan, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in the fine sea salt, chipotle paste, Black Garlic Paste, tomato purée, jalapeños, jalapeño brine, and sugar. Mix well.
5. Add the black beans and chopped tomatoes, cooking for about 20 minutes until heated through and flavors melded.
6. When the potatoes are done, cut them open and fluff the insides with a fork.
7. Spoon the chili mixture on top of the potatoes and sprinkle with grated Cheddar.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.
9. Serve with a dollop of soured cream and fresh coriander on top.

this Recipe

HOW TO SERVE Chili-Cheese Jackets

Chili-Cheese Jackets are best served hot right out of the oven. Place each baked potato on a plate, generously top with the chili mixture, and finish with a sprinkle of grated cheese, a scoop of soured cream, and fresh coriander. For a little extra zing, you can add more chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. These jackets can be enjoyed as a main dish, or paired with a crisp salad or some bread for a complete meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Chili-Cheese Jackets

If you have leftovers, you can store Chili-Cheese Jackets in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will last for about 3 to 4 days. When you’re ready to eat them, you can reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. If you want to freeze them, it’s best to freeze the chili mixture separately from the potatoes. You can freeze the chili in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw the chili, bake the potatoes, and assemble your meal.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

For serving, you can add a mixture of toppings to make your Chili-Cheese Jackets extra special. Consider adding fresh avocado slices, a squeeze of lime, or even some crispy bacon. A side of corn or a simple green salad can make the meal more complete. If you’re feeding a crowd, offer a toppings bar with various options like cheese, sour cream, diced onions, or even different types of salsa.

VARIATIONS

Chili-Cheese Jackets are versatile, so you can get creative with the ingredients. Here are some ideas for variations:

• Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or a meat substitute for the chili. Add more beans and vegetables.
• Spicy Option: Increase the amount of chipotle paste or add fresh chili peppers for extra heat.
• Cheesy Variation: Try mixing different types of cheese such as Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different flavor.
• Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika to the chili for a deep, smoky taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of potatoes for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of potatoes. However, baking potatoes like Russet or Idaho are best for this dish as they become fluffy when baked.

2. Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chili in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake the potatoes just before serving.

3. Can I make Chili-Cheese Jackets vegetarian?

Yes, simply replace the beef with a plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of meat.

4. How do I know when the potatoes are fully baked?

The potatoes are fully baked when they are soft when poked with a fork or knife.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Chili-Cheese Jackets

To save time, you can prepare the chili a day ahead. Store it in the fridge and then bake the potatoes when you are ready to serve. You can also bake the potatoes ahead of time and then reheat them with the chili on top to melt the cheese. This makes serving quick and easy, especially for busy weeknights or entertaining.

By following this simple recipe, you will have a delicious meal that is sure to please anyone at your table. Enjoy your Chili-Cheese Jackets!

Chili-Cheese Jackets

A delicious and hearty dish combining baked potatoes with spicy chili topping.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex

Calories: 650

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Jackets

• 4 pieces baking potatoes Best with Russet or Idaho potatoes

For the Chili

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil For cooking
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 tsp cumin seeds
• 500 g beef mince (12 percent fat) Lean beef for healthier option
• 1 tsp fine sea salt Adjust to taste
• 2 tbsp chipotle paste For spice
• 2 tbsp Black Garlic Paste For depth of flavor
• 3 tbsp tomato purée For richness
• 50 g pickled jalapeños, chopped
• 2 tbsp jalapeño brine From the jar of jalapeños
• 1 pinch sugar To balance flavors
• 400 g can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 400 g can chopped tomatoes For sauce base
• 80 g vintage Cheddar, grated For topping
• 4 tbsp soured cream For serving
• Half pack coriander, leaves picked For garnish

Method

 

Preparation

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Bake the potatoes for 1 hour or until tender.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cumin seeds, cooking until the onion is soft.
3. Add the beef mince to the pan, cooking until browned.
4. Stir in the fine sea salt, chipotle paste, Black Garlic Paste, tomato purée, jalapeños, jalapeño brine, and sugar. Mix well.
5. Add the black beans and chopped tomatoes, cooking for about 20 minutes until heated through and flavors melded.
6. When the potatoes are done, cut them open and fluff the insides with a fork.
7. Spoon the chili mixture on top of the potatoes and sprinkle with grated Cheddar.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Serving

1. Serve with a dollop of soured cream and fresh coriander on top.

Notes

If you have leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. Can be frozen, best to freeze chili separately from potatoes.