Taco Potatoes

Taco Potatoes are a satisfying fusion of crispy baked potatoes and flavorful taco toppings. This hearty dish combines the comfort of a baked potato with the zesty, savory elements of a taco, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Loaded with ground beef, cheese, and all your favorite toppings, these potatoes are endlessly customizable and family-friendly.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

russet potatoesground beeftaco seasoningcheddar cheese (shredded)sour creamgreen onions (chopped)tomatoes (diced)lettuce (shredded)olive oilsalt and pepperoptional toppings: jalapeños, avocado, salsa, hot sauce

directions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, poke them with a fork a few times, rub with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt. Bake for 45-60 minutes until fork-tender.

While the potatoes bake, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat and stir in the taco seasoning with a bit of water. Simmer until thickened.

Once the potatoes are cooked, slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork.

Top each potato with a generous scoop of taco meat, shredded cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, green onions, and any other desired toppings.

Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 4 stuffed taco potatoes.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 45-60 minutes
Assembly time: 5 minutes
Total time: 60-75 minutes

Variations

Use sweet potatoes instead of russet for a slightly sweeter base.

Swap ground beef with ground turkey, shredded chicken, or black beans for a lighter or vegetarian option.

Add nacho cheese sauce or queso for an extra indulgent touch.

Top with crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a healthier alternative.

storage/reheating

Store leftover taco potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Add fresh toppings after reheating for best texture.

FAQs

Can I make the potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the potatoes in advance and reheat them just before serving. Store them without toppings for best results.

Can I use leftover taco meat?

Absolutely! This is a great way to repurpose leftover taco filling.

Are taco potatoes spicy?

They can be, depending on your seasoning and toppings. Adjust to your preference.

Can I freeze taco potatoes?

The potatoes themselves can be frozen, but it’s best to add fresh toppings after reheating.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend all work wonderfully.

Do I have to use russet potatoes?

Russets are ideal because of their size and fluffiness, but other large potatoes can work too.

Can I serve these as a party dish?

Yes! Try making mini versions with smaller potatoes for a fun appetizer.

Is this kid-friendly?

Definitely! Kids can choose their own toppings, making it a fun meal.

Can I make them vegan?

Yes, use plant-based meat or beans and vegan cheese and sour cream.

Do I need to peel the potatoes?

No, the skin adds structure and nutrients—just make sure to scrub them clean.

Conclusion

Taco Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food mashup—easy to make, customizable, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting a casual get-together, these loaded potatoes offer the perfect blend of hearty, zesty flavors with minimal effort. Add them to your dinner rotation for a fun and filling twist on taco night!

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