Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Taco Potatoes combine the hearty comfort of baked potatoes with the bold flavors of a classic taco. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

Ingredients

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean, prick them a few times with a fork, rub with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Place them directly on the oven rack and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
2. Step 2: While the potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
3. Step 3: Stir in the taco seasoning along with 2/3 cup of water. Simmer until the sauce thickens and the beef is fully coated, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat.
4. Step 4: When the potatoes are done, carefully slice each one open lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff the insides slightly, creating a small pocket.
5. Step 5: Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly over the opened potatoes. Top each with shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt slightly from the heat of the potatoes.
6. Step 6: Add dollops of sour cream on top, then garnish with chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped cilantro. Serve warm for a delicious, hearty meal.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans or lentils and season with the taco mix.
• Add jalapeños or hot sauce for an extra spicy kick.
• Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese instead of cheddar for a creamier, slightly spicy flavor.
• Microwave potatoes for 8-10 minutes before baking to reduce cooking time.

Storage

Store leftover cheesy taco potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. To retain crispness, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes instead of microwaving.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare these potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the potatoes in advance and store them separately from the beef mixture. Reheat both components and assemble just before serving for best texture and flavor.

What can I use if I don’t have taco seasoning?

You can make a simple homemade taco seasoning by combining chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Adjust the quantities to taste.

Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 480 reviews

Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a delicious and family-friendly recipe featuring crispy baked russet potatoes loaded with seasoned ground beef and topped with melted cheddar cheese and fresh taco-inspired toppings. This comforting dish combines the savory flavors of taco seasoning with creamy sour cream, fresh veggies, and a hint of cilantro for a satisfying and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner.

• Author: Isabella
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 55 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Potatoes and Seasonings

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Beef Mixture

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning

Toppings

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/4 cup sliced black olives
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and dry the russet potatoes thoroughly. Prick each potato several times with a fork, rub them with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes until tender and the skins are crispy.
2. Cook the Ground Beef: While the potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary. Stir in the taco seasoning along with the recommended amount of water specified on the seasoning packet, and simmer until the seasoning is fully absorbed and meat is well coated.
3. Assemble the Potatoes: When the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool briefly. Slice each potato lengthwise without cutting all the way through, then gently squeeze the ends to open them up to create a pocket for the filling.
4. Fill and Top Potatoes: Spoon the seasoned ground beef evenly into each opened potato. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese on top of the beef in each potato, then return the potatoes to the oven for 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese melts.
5. Add Fresh Toppings and Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each one with dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your cheesy taco potatoes!

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.
• To make it spicier, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the taco beef mixture.
• For a vegetarian version, replace ground beef with cooked black beans or a meat substitute.
• Leftover potatoes can be reheated in the oven or microwave but are best enjoyed fresh.
• Adjust the amount of cheese and sour cream according to your dietary preference.

Keywords: taco potatoes, cheesy potatoes, baked potatoes, ground beef recipe, taco seasoning recipe, easy dinner, family-friendly meal