Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes

There are some recipes that just become instant family favorites, and Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes are definitely one of those in our household. I stumbled upon this recipe years ago while looking for creative ways to serve mashed potatoes, beyond the usual side dish. The idea of combining creamy, comforting mashed potatoes with the juicy tang of tomatoes was intriguing, and let me tell you, the result was absolutely delightful! From the first bite, my family was hooked. The kids, who can sometimes be picky eaters, devoured them, and my husband declared them a “genius” creation. What I love most about this dish is its versatility. It’s elegant enough to serve as a unique appetizer at a dinner party, yet simple and satisfying enough for a weeknight meal alongside a salad or other vegetables. The combination of textures and flavors is just perfect – the smooth, rich mashed potatoes complementing the slightly acidic and refreshing tomato. Over the years, I’ve tweaked the recipe to perfection, experimenting with different herbs and cheeses to elevate the flavors even further. Now, it’s a staple in our kitchen, and I’m so excited to share this recipe with you, hoping it becomes a beloved dish in your home too. Get ready to experience a comforting classic with a vibrant and delicious twist!

Ingredients: Simple Goodness from Your Pantry

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry and refrigerator. Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture in our Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes.

• Large Tomatoes: (6-8, ripe but firm) The star of the show! Choose large, ripe tomatoes that are firm enough to hold their shape when scooped out and baked. Roma or beefsteak tomatoes work particularly well. Their slight acidity provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy mashed potatoes.
• Potatoes: (2 lbs, Russet or Yukon Gold) The creamy base of our filling. Russet potatoes are great for fluffy mashed potatoes, while Yukon Golds offer a slightly buttery and denser texture. Feel free to use your favorite type of potato for mashing.
• Milk: (1/2 cup, whole or 2%) Adds richness and creaminess to the mashed potatoes. Whole milk will result in a richer flavor, but 2% works perfectly well too. You can also use plant-based milk alternatives like almond milk or soy milk for a dairy-free version, though the creaminess might be slightly different.
• Butter: (4 tablespoons, unsalted) Essential for flavor and richness in the mashed potatoes. Unsalted butter allows you to control the saltiness of the dish. For a vegan option, you can use a good quality plant-based butter.
• Shredded Cheese: (1 cup, cheddar, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack) Adds a cheesy, melty goodness to the stuffing. Cheddar provides a sharp, classic flavor, mozzarella offers a mild and stretchy melt, and Monterey Jack gives a creamy and smooth texture. Feel free to experiment with your favorite cheese blends or use a vegan cheese alternative.
• Garlic Powder: (1 teaspoon) A touch of garlic powder enhances the savory flavor of the mashed potatoes. Fresh garlic can also be used (see “Additional Tips” section).
• Onion Powder: (1/2 teaspoon) Adds a subtle oniony depth to the mashed potato mixture, complementing the garlic.
• Dried Herbs: (1 tablespoon, Italian blend, parsley, or thyme) Fresh or dried herbs elevate the flavor profile. Italian blend, parsley, or thyme are excellent choices that pair well with both potatoes and tomatoes. Fresh herbs will offer a brighter flavor, while dried herbs are more convenient and have a more concentrated taste.
• Salt: (To taste) Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients. Start with a teaspoon and adjust to your preference.
• Black Pepper: (To taste) Adds a touch of spice and depth. Freshly ground black pepper is always recommended for the best flavor.
• Olive Oil: (2 tablespoons) Used for drizzling over the tomatoes before baking, adding a touch of richness and aiding in browning.
• Fresh Parsley: (For garnish, optional) Adds a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.

Instructions: Step-by-Step Guide to Delicious Stuffed Tomatoes

Follow these detailed instructions to create perfectly Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes every time. Each step is designed to be easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, ensuring a successful and delicious outcome.

Step 1: Prepare the Tomatoes

• Wash and Dry: Begin by gently washing the tomatoes under cool water to remove any dirt or residue. Pat them completely dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Ensuring the tomatoes are dry will help them roast better in the oven.
• Slice the Tops: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice off the top portion of each tomato, about ½ inch from the stem end. This will create a “lid” that you can use later for presentation, if desired, or discard. Set the tomato tops aside.
• Scoop out the Pulp: Using a spoon, carefully scoop out the pulp and seeds from inside each tomato, leaving a hollow shell. Be gentle to avoid tearing the tomato walls. You want to create a cavity large enough to hold a generous amount of mashed potato filling.
• Drain Excess Moisture: Place the hollowed-out tomato shells upside down on a paper towel-lined plate or baking sheet. This allows any excess moisture to drain out, preventing the stuffed tomatoes from becoming soggy during baking. Let them drain for at least 15-20 minutes while you prepare the mashed potatoes. This step is crucial for achieving the best texture.
• Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Preheating the oven ensures even cooking and prevents the tomatoes from becoming mushy before the mashed potatoes are heated through.

Step 2: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

• Peel and Chop Potatoes: While the tomatoes are draining, peel the potatoes and cut them into uniform chunks, about 1-2 inches in size. Uniform pieces will cook evenly.
• Boil Potatoes: Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water. Add a generous pinch of salt to the water. Bring the water to a boil over high heat and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce them with a fork.
• Drain Potatoes: Once the potatoes are cooked, drain them thoroughly in a colander. Make sure to remove as much water as possible to prevent watery mashed potatoes.
• Return to Pot and Mash: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter, milk, garlic powder, onion powder, dried herbs, salt, and black pepper. Using a potato masher or an electric mixer (on low speed), mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Be careful not to over-mash if using an electric mixer, as this can make the potatoes gluey. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, herbs, or even a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
• Stir in Cheese: Stir in the shredded cheese until it is melted and incorporated into the mashed potatoes. The cheese adds flavor and helps to bind the mashed potatoes together, making them easier to stuff into the tomatoes.

Step 3: Stuff and Bake the Tomatoes

• Fill Tomatoes: Turn the tomato shells right side up and spoon the mashed potato mixture into each tomato cavity, mounding it slightly on top. Be generous with the filling! You want each tomato to be packed with creamy mashed potatoes.
• Drizzle with Olive Oil: Lightly drizzle the tops of the stuffed tomatoes with olive oil. This will help them brown beautifully in the oven and add a touch of richness.
• Bake: Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or foil for easier cleanup. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the tomatoes are heated through, the mashed potato topping is lightly golden brown, and the tomatoes are tender but still hold their shape. Keep an eye on them to prevent over-browning.
• Garnish and Serve: Once baked, carefully remove the baking sheet from the oven. Garnish the Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes with fresh parsley, if desired. Let them cool slightly before serving. They are best served warm.

Nutrition Facts: A Wholesome and Satisfying Dish

(Per serving, approximate values – may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes)

• Servings: 6
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 kcal
• Total Fat: 12-15g
• Saturated Fat: 7-9g
• Cholesterol: 30-40mg

Note: These values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods. For more precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator and input the exact ingredients and amounts you use.*

Preparation Time: Quick and Easy to Prepare

This recipe for Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes is surprisingly quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a delicious dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The active preparation time, which includes peeling and chopping potatoes, scooping tomatoes, and making the mashed potatoes, is approximately 30-40 minutes. The baking time is an additional 20-25 minutes. Therefore, from start to finish, you can have these delightful stuffed tomatoes on your table in about 1 hour. Much of the time is hands-off baking time, allowing you to focus on other tasks while the oven works its magic.

How to Serve: Versatile and Delicious in Many Ways

Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways, making them suitable for different occasions and meals. Here are some serving suggestions:

• Side Dish: Serve them as a comforting and flavorful side dish alongside your favorite main courses. They pair wonderfully with:
  • Grilled or roasted vegetables (like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans)
  • Lentil loaf or vegetarian burgers
  • Quinoa or couscous dishes
  • Salads with vinaigrette dressings to complement the richness of the tomatoes and potatoes.
• Appetizer: These stuffed tomatoes make an elegant and unique appetizer for dinner parties or gatherings.
  • Arrange them beautifully on a platter garnished with fresh herbs.
  • Serve them warm as a starter before a main course.
  • Consider making smaller stuffed tomatoes using cherry or grape tomatoes for bite-sized appetizers.
• Light Lunch or Vegetarian Main Course: For a lighter meal, Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes can be the star of the show.
  • Serve 2-3 stuffed tomatoes per person for a satisfying vegetarian lunch or dinner.
  • Pair them with a side salad or a light soup for a complete and balanced meal.
  • Add a sprinkle of extra cheese or a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for added richness and flavor.
• Holiday Side: They are a fantastic addition to holiday feasts, especially Thanksgiving or Christmas, offering a vegetarian and gluten-free option that everyone will enjoy.
  • They provide a welcome alternative to traditional heavy side dishes.
  • Their vibrant color and presentation make them visually appealing on a holiday table.
• Brunch Dish: Serve them as a savory brunch option.
  • They pair well with other brunch favorites like eggs, frittatas, or breakfast pastries.
  • Consider adding a poached egg on top of each stuffed tomato for an extra touch of brunch indulgence.

Additional Tips: Elevate Your Stuffed Tomatoes to the Next Level

Here are 8 additional tips to help you customize and perfect your Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes, ensuring they are always a crowd-pleaser:

1. Roast the Garlic for Extra Flavor: Instead of using garlic powder, roast a head of garlic and add a few cloves of roasted garlic to your mashed potatoes. Roasted garlic has a mellow, sweet, and incredibly flavorful profile that will elevate the dish significantly. Simply roast a whole head of garlic drizzled with olive oil in foil until soft and caramelized, then squeeze out the cloves and mash them into the potatoes.
2. Add Fresh Herbs to the Mashed Potatoes: While dried herbs are convenient, fresh herbs will bring a brighter and more vibrant flavor to your mashed potatoes. Consider adding finely chopped fresh chives, rosemary, thyme, or basil to the potato mixture. Add them towards the end of the mashing process to preserve their fresh flavor.
3. Spice it Up with Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese to create unique flavor combinations. Try using Gruyere for a nutty and complex flavor, Parmesan for a salty and savory kick, or pepper jack for a spicy and cheesy twist. A combination of cheeses can also be delicious.
4. Incorporate Vegetables into the Mashed Potatoes: Sneak in extra nutrients and flavor by adding finely chopped cooked vegetables to your mashed potatoes. Sautéed onions, caramelized shallots, spinach, or roasted red peppers would all be delicious additions. Make sure the vegetables are cooked and drained well before adding them to the potatoes.
5. Breadcrumb Topping for Texture: For a crispy topping, sprinkle breadcrumbs over the mashed potato filling before baking. Use panko breadcrumbs for extra crunch or Italian breadcrumbs for added flavor. You can also toss the breadcrumbs with melted butter and herbs before sprinkling them on top for even more flavor and browning.
6. Use Different Types of Tomatoes: While large tomatoes are ideal for stuffing, you can experiment with different varieties for unique flavors and presentations. Roma tomatoes are meaty and hold their shape well. Beefsteak tomatoes are large and juicy. Heirloom tomatoes offer a variety of colors and flavors. You can even use smaller tomatoes like cherry or grape tomatoes for bite-sized appetizers.
7. Make Ahead for Convenience: You can prepare the mashed potatoes and stuff the tomatoes ahead of time. Assemble the stuffed tomatoes and store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they are heated through. This is a great tip for meal prepping or for dinner parties.
8. Veganize the Recipe Easily: This recipe can be easily adapted to be vegan. Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives for the mashed potatoes. Substitute nutritional yeast for cheese to add a cheesy flavor, or use a good quality vegan shredded cheese. Ensure your breadcrumbs (if using) are also vegan-friendly.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered About Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes

Here are 8 frequently asked questions about Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes, along with detailed answers to help you make this recipe perfectly.

Q1: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes, absolutely! Sweet potatoes would make a delicious and slightly sweeter variation of this recipe. They will provide a different flavor profile and a beautiful orange color to the mashed potato filling. Follow the same cooking and mashing instructions as with regular potatoes. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes pairs surprisingly well with the tanginess of the tomatoes.

Q2: Can I freeze Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes?
A: It is not recommended to freeze fully assembled and baked Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes. The texture of the tomatoes and mashed potatoes may change upon thawing and reheating, becoming watery or mushy. However, you can freeze the mashed potato filling separately. Prepare the mashed potatoes as instructed, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw the mashed potatoes in the refrigerator overnight and then proceed with stuffing and baking the tomatoes as per the recipe instructions.

Q3: How do I prevent the tomatoes from becoming too watery?
A: Draining the scooped-out tomato shells upside down on paper towels for at least 15-20 minutes is crucial for removing excess moisture. You can also lightly sprinkle the inside of the tomato shells with salt after scooping them out. Salt helps to draw out moisture. Another tip is to bake the tomato shells briefly (about 5-10 minutes) in the oven before stuffing them. This will help to dry them out further and concentrate their flavor.

Q4: Can I make this recipe without cheese?
A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe without cheese. Simply omit the cheese from the mashed potato mixture. To add extra flavor in place of the cheese, you can increase the amount of herbs, garlic powder, or onion powder. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also add a cheesy, savory flavor without using dairy cheese.

Q5: What if I don’t have dried herbs? Can I use fresh herbs instead?
A: Yes, fresh herbs are a wonderful substitute for dried herbs, and often provide a brighter flavor. Use about three times the amount of fresh herbs as you would dried herbs. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 tablespoon of dried herbs, use 3 tablespoons of finely chopped fresh herbs. Add fresh herbs towards the end of the mashing process to preserve their flavor and aroma.

Q6: Can I use pre-made mashed potatoes to save time?
A: While it is possible to use pre-made mashed potatoes to save time, homemade mashed potatoes will generally result in a better flavor and texture. If you do use pre-made mashed potatoes, make sure they are of good quality and not too watery. You may need to adjust the seasonings to your liking. It’s still recommended to warm them up and stir in the cheese and herbs to enhance their flavor before stuffing the tomatoes.

Q7: How long do Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes last in the refrigerator?
A: Cooked Mashed Potato Stuffed Tomatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them gently in the oven or microwave until heated through before serving. Keep in mind that the texture of the tomatoes might soften slightly upon reheating.

Q8: Can I add meat to the mashed potato filling?
A: While this recipe is designed as a vegetarian dish, you could add cooked and crumbled meat to the mashed potato filling if you prefer. Cooked and crumbled bacon, sausage, or ground beef would be options. However, keep in mind that adding meat will change the nutritional profile and make it no longer a vegetarian dish. Ensure any meat is thoroughly cooked and drained of excess fat before adding it to the mashed potatoes.

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