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Chopped Cheese Potato Bowls bring the best of classic New York street food into a cozy bowl at home. Crispy potatoes form the base instead of a roll, then everything gets piled high with seasoned beef, gooey cheese, and all the tasty fixings. It is family friendly comfort food that delivers plenty of flavor and fun to the dinner table.
The first time I tested this I could not believe how quickly the potatoes crisped up in the air fryer. This is now our go-to when we crave something comforting but want a twist on burgers and fries.
Ingredients
- Yukon gold potatoes or any potato you like: sliced into bite sized pieces for the crispiest results
- Olive oil: helps the potatoes brown evenly and keeps the beef juicy
- Fire and Smoke Society Onion Butter Seasoning or any all purpose blend: adds depth and makes the potatoes savory
- Paprika: gives both warmth and color to the potatoes
- Black pepper: for a gentle bite throughout
- Yellow onion: diced and cooked with the beef sweetens the meat topping
- Garlic powder and onion powder: a classic combo to amplify flavor
- Kinder's Buttery Burger Blend or your favorite burger seasoning: delivers that special dineresque taste
- American cheese slices: melt smoothly and create that signature chopped cheese texture
- Shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes: for freshness and crunch on top
- Ketchup and mayonnaise: for a creamy tangy finish that ties it all together
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prep the Potatoes:
- Chop your potatoes into bite sized pieces making sure they are similar in size for even cooking. Toss with olive oil and your chosen seasonings until every piece is coated and glistening.
- Air Fry the Potatoes:
- Set your air fryer to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit. Cook the seasoned potatoes for about twenty five minutes shaking the basket halfway so every side gets crisp and golden.
- Cook the Beef Mixture:
- Heat a skillet over medium. Add olive oil and diced onion then sauté until soft and sweet about five minutes. Crumble in ground beef and sprinkle with garlic powder onion powder black pepper and your favorite burger seasoning. Cook until browned breaking it up into small bits as it cooks.
- Finish with Cheese:
- Lower the heat and drape slices of American cheese over the beef. Let them melt into gooey pools before stirring lightly to mix with the beef.
- Assemble and Serve:
- Spoon crispy air fried potatoes into bowls. Pile on cheesy beef then sprinkle over lettuce and tomatoes. Drizzle with ketchup and mayo taking care not to skimp on the toppings.
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You Must Know
- Crispy air fried potato cubes hold up well to saucy toppings
- This dish is a fun family dinner or party bowl everyone can top their own
- A blend of seasonings in both beef and potatoes builds classic chopped cheese flavor
There is something about the creamy melted American cheese that makes this recipe irresistible for both kids and adults in my house. My son always asks for extra pickles on his which is now our little homemade tradition.
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Storage Tips
Store leftover bowls in separate containers. Keep the potatoes and beef in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat potatoes in the air fryer or oven to bring back that crispy edge before topping with leftover beef and fresh toppings. Avoid microwaving potatoes if you want them to stay crisp.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use sweet potatoes for extra sweetness or russets for a fluffy interior. Ground turkey or chicken works well in place of beef for a lighter twist. Swap out American cheese for cheddar if you like a bolder cheese flavor. Lettuce and tomato can be replaced with slaw or pickled onions for a new spin.
Serving Suggestions
Layer on avocado slices or chopped pickles for added texture. For a spicy version drizzle with hot sauce or include sliced jalapenos. Pair with sweet potato fries or a big green salad to round out the meal for a crowd.
Cultural and Historical Context
Chopped cheese sandwiches are a cornerstone of New York City bodegas especially in Harlem and the Bronx. The sandwich was originally made as an affordable hearty meal for locals and has become a symbol of neighborhood culture. This bowl version pays tribute by keeping the flavors but updating the form for easy family style sharing.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use different types of cheese?
Absolutely! While American cheese melts well, cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack are also delicious choices for extra flavor.
- → What's the best potato variety to use?
Yukon Golds offer a creamy interior with crisp edges, but russets or red potatoes also work well for air-frying.
- → How can I make it healthier?
Try using lean ground beef or turkey and opt for light mayo. Add extra veggies as toppings for more freshness.
- → Are there vegetarian alternatives?
Swap ground beef for seasoned plant-based crumbles or lentils and keep all the same toppings for a satisfying bowl.
- → Can these bowls be prepped ahead?
You can cook the potatoes and beef mixture in advance, reheating and assembling bowls just before serving for best texture.