Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Taco potatoes are the perfect way to combine the comfort of baked potatoes with the bold, zesty flavors of tacos. Instead of a tortilla, a fluffy baked potato becomes the base for seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings. It’s hearty, filling, and customizable, making it a hit for both family dinners and casual gatherings. I first tried making these with sweet potatoes, and the natural sweetness paired with the spicy taco meat beautifully—it was an unexpected but delicious twist. Whether you stick with traditional russets or experiment with different potatoes, taco potatoes are a fun, creative way to shake up taco night while still delivering the flavors everyone loves.
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Taco Potatoes – A Hearty Twist on Taco Night
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A hearty twist on taco night featuring baked potatoes loaded with seasoned taco beef, cheese, and classic toppings for a filling and flavorful meal.
Ingredients
- 4 large russet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade)
- 2/3 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes, rub with olive oil, and pierce with a fork. Bake for 50-60 minutes until tender.
- Meanwhile, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add taco seasoning and water to beef. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
- Once potatoes are cooked, cut a slit down the center and fluff the insides with a fork.
- Fill each potato with taco beef and top with cheese, sour cream, salsa, lettuce, tomatoes, and green onions.
- Garnish with cilantro if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute ground turkey or chicken.
- Microwave potatoes for a quicker option (10-12 minutes, turning halfway).
- Customize toppings with jalapeños, guacamole, or black beans.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking and Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Each ingredient works together to make this dish flavorful, satisfying, and versatile.
Russet potatoes – Large, starchy potatoes that bake up fluffy and make the perfect base for toppings.
Ground beef (or turkey) – Seasoned with taco spices, it creates the hearty filling.
Onion – Adds savory depth to the taco meat.
Garlic – Enhances the beef with aromatic flavor.
Taco seasoning – A blend of spices that gives the beef its signature taco flavor.
Cheddar cheese – Melts into the potato for gooey, comforting richness.
Sour cream – Adds creaminess and balances the spices.
Lettuce – Brings freshness and crunch to the loaded potatoes.
Tomatoes – Juicy and slightly sweet, they brighten the flavors.
Jalapeños – Optional, for a spicy kick.
Cilantro – Freshens and finishes the dish beautifully.
Directions
Begin by baking the potatoes. Preheat the oven to 400°F, scrub the potatoes, prick them with a fork, and bake for about 50–60 minutes, or until fork-tender.
While the potatoes bake, prepare the filling. Heat a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef with onion until browned, then add garlic and taco seasoning. Stir well and add a splash of water to let the flavors meld. Simmer until thickened.
Once the potatoes are ready, slice them open lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Top each potato generously with the taco meat, followed by cheese, sour cream, lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, and cilantro. Serve immediately while hot and melty.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation takes 10 minutes, baking requires 60 minutes, and assembling takes another 10 minutes, for a total of about 1 hour and 20 minutes.
Storage/reheating
Store leftover taco meat separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Baked potatoes can also be stored for up to 3 days. Reheat potatoes in the oven and taco meat on the stovetop, then assemble fresh with toppings. Freezing is not recommended for fully assembled taco potatoes.
Variations and Customizations
Loaded nacho style – Top with queso, guacamole, and tortilla chips for a Tex-Mex spin.
Vegetarian version – Use black beans or lentils instead of beef for a meatless option.
Sweet potato swap – Use baked sweet potatoes for a sweet-savory flavor combination.
Chicken taco potatoes – Shredded chicken with taco seasoning makes a lighter option.
Breakfast twist – Add scrambled eggs, salsa, and avocado for a morning version.
Spicy upgrade – Mix chipotle peppers or hot sauce into the taco meat.
Cheese lover’s version – Add a layer of queso dip inside the potato before topping with beef.
FAQs
What type of potato is best for taco potatoes?
Russet potatoes work best since they bake up fluffy and hold toppings well.
Can I cook the potatoes faster?
Yes, you can microwave them for 10–12 minutes, but the oven gives better texture.
Can I make this with leftover baked potatoes?
Absolutely, just reheat the potatoes and add the toppings.
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Yes, but homemade seasoning allows you to control the spice level and salt.
What toppings work best?
Classic taco toppings like cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, sour cream, and salsa are ideal.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the potatoes and taco meat in advance, then assemble just before serving.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as your taco seasoning is gluten-free.
Can I use a different cheese?
Yes, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a Mexican blend also work well.
How do I keep the potatoes from drying out?
Rub them with a little oil before baking for a crispy skin and fluffy inside.
Are taco potatoes kid-friendly?
Yes, kids love them! You can customize the toppings to make them milder.
Conclusion
Taco potatoes are the ultimate comfort-meets-creativity dish. They bring together the warmth of baked potatoes with the bold, zesty flavors of tacos, resulting in a meal that’s hearty, versatile, and crowd-pleasing. Perfect for busy weeknights, game day, or when you just want something fun and filling, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Once you try taco potatoes, you’ll see just how easy it is to turn simple ingredients into something unforgettable.
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