Looking for a dish that brings comfort and flavor together effortlessly? These Chili Loaded Potatoes are exactly what you need! Imagine crispy baby potatoes seasoned to perfection, loaded with a rich, hearty chili made without a single drop of oil. This dish delivers the satisfaction of classic comfort food with a lighter, healthier twist, all prepared conveniently in an air fryer. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is versatile enough to become a family favorite. It’s quick, uses common pantry ingredients, and packs enough flavor to please everyone at the dinner table.
Chili Loaded Potatoes
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Rate this RecipeEquipment
- Air Fryer Must have dual basket or stew pot attachment for convenience.
- 1 Mixing Bowl
- 1 Spatula For stirring at intervals.
- Stew Pot Used for the air fryer stew setting.
- 1 Serving Platter To assemble the final dish.
Ingredients
- 450 gram baby potatoes Approximately 1 lb.
- 2 tablespoon olive oil Use extra virgin for added flavor.
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic granules Can substitute with fresh garlic for stronger flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt Or adjust to taste.
- 250 gram ground beef Approximately 0.5 lb. Substitute with plant-based mince for vegetarian version.
- 1 small onion Finely chopped.
- 1 teaspoon garlic paste Can substitute with 2 cloves minced garlic.
- 250 milliliter tomato passata Approximately 1 cup.
- 125 milliliter water Approximately 1/2 cup.
- 200 gram kidney beans Approximately 7 oz, drained and rinsed.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon red chili powder Optional for extra heat.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt Or adjust to taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- To start, grab 450g (about 1 lb) of baby potatoes. You want to slice these in half to get that perfect balance of crispiness and soft texture. Add the sliced potatoes to a large mixing bowl, and drizzle them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Season the potatoes with 1 teaspoon paprika, 1 teaspoon garlic granules, 1 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt, or adjust as per your taste. Mix everything well to ensure each potato slice is coated in that delicious spice blend.
- Place the seasoned potatoes into one of the baskets of your air fryer. Set the temperature to 150°C (300°F) and let them cook for about 25 minutes. Stir the potatoes every 10-15 minutes to ensure they cook evenly, achieving a crispy exterior with a tender center. The air fryer will do most of the work for you, resulting in perfectly crispy, golden potatoes.
- While the potatoes cook, let’s get started on the hearty chili. In the second basket of the air fryer or in the stew pot attachment, add 250g (about 0.5 lb) of ground beef. Add in 1 small onion, finely chopped, and 1 teaspoon of garlic paste. Then, pour in 250 ml (1 cup) of tomato passata and 125 ml (1/2 cup) of water. To add more flavor, include 200g (7 oz) of kidney beans, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/2 teaspoon onion powder, 1 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder (optional for some heat), 1 teaspoon dried oregano, 1 teaspoon dried parsley, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon salt.
- Once both the potatoes and the chili are done, it’s time to load them up! Lay the crispy potato halves onto a serving platter, and generously spoon the hot chili over the top. To take it up a notch, sprinkle with some shredded mozzarella cheese. Let it melt slightly from the heat of the chili. Garnish with chopped spring onions, a few slices of red chili for an extra kick, and freshly chopped coriander for brightness. For a final touch, add dollops of sour cream and guacamole, which provide the perfect creamy contrast to the rich, spicy chili.
- Serve the Chili Loaded Potatoes immediately while they are hot. They pair wonderfully with a fresh green salad on the side, or even just on their own as a hearty, satisfying meal. Enjoy the blend of crispy potatoes, savory chili, and creamy toppings with every bite!
Notes
For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the chili during cooking. Make sure to stir regularly to prevent sticking.
Modifications for Dietary Restrictions
For a vegetarian version, use plant-based mince or lentils instead of beef. For extra crispiness, consider adding a bit more oil to the potatoes before air frying. Adjust the level of spice by adding or omitting red chili powder as desired.
Common Food Intolerances and Their Substitutions
| Ingredient | Potential Intolerance | Substitution |
|---|---|---|
| Beef (Ground beef) | Red Meat Intolerance | Plant-based mince or cooked lentils |
| Dairy (Mozzarella, Sour Cream) | Lactose Intolerance | Lactose-free cheese and coconut cream |
| Beans (Kidney Beans) | Legume Allergy | Omit beans or substitute with diced bell peppers |
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
These Chili Loaded Potatoes are a true comfort food delight—deliciously seasoned, filling, and packed with the goodness of wholesome ingredients. The use of the air fryer makes this dish both healthier and incredibly convenient, with minimal clean-up required. Whether you’re looking for a quick family dinner or an impressive dish for a casual gathering, this recipe hits all the marks. Loaded with protein, fiber, and flavor, it’s a meal that satisfies on every level.
FAQ’s
Can I Make This Recipe Without an Air Fryer?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake the potatoes in an oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 30-35 minutes or until crispy. For the chili, simply use a stovetop. Brown the beef, then add the rest of the ingredients, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes on low heat.
What Are Some Suggested Toppings for Chili Loaded Potatoes?
In addition to the mozzarella, spring onion, and guacamole, you can add toppings like diced jalapeños for extra spice, shredded cheddar cheese for more cheesy goodness, or even crumbled bacon for a smoky touch. Feel free to get creative and tailor it to your taste preferences!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the potatoes and chili separately in the air fryer or oven to keep the potatoes crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but the potatoes may lose some of their crunch.
Can I Use a Meat Substitute for a Vegetarian Version?
Yes! You can easily swap out the ground beef for plant-based mince or even cooked lentils to make this dish vegetarian. The cooking method and time will remain the same, and you’ll still get a delicious, hearty meal.