These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a fun twist on your favorite flavors! Packed with seasoned ground beef, cheesy goodness, and topped with tasty toppings, they are sure to please everyone.
Honestly, who can resist warm, cheesy potatoes? I love to pile on the sour cream and salsa—it’s like a taco night in a potato! Perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick weeknight meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potatoes: Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes are great choices here. They roast well and have a creamy texture. If you want a lower-carb option, try using cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different flavor twist.
Ground Beef: I love using ground beef for its flavor, but you can switch it up! Ground turkey or chicken works well too for a lighter meal. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or a plant-based meat substitute!
Taco Seasoning: A packet of taco seasoning is super convenient, but I like to make my own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika for extra freshness. This way, you can control the spice level to suit your taste.
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar is classic for this dish! If you want to mix it up, Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack adds a nice zing. Vegan cheese or nutritional yeast can be used for a dairy-free option.
Sour Cream: While sour cream is a favorite topping, Greek yogurt is a healthy swap that adds creaminess. If you want a dairy-free substitute, try avocado or a cashew cream instead!
How Do You Roast Potatoes to Perfection?
Roasting potatoes may seem simple, but there are a few tips to ensure they come out perfectly crispy and tender. Start by pricking the potatoes; this allows steam to escape as they cook, preventing them from bursting.
- Preheat your oven to the right temperature; 400°F (200°C) is perfect.
- Rubbing olive oil is key! It helps achieve a crispy skin. Don’t skip the salt, as it enhances flavor.
- Cooking time can vary based on potato size. Test for doneness by sticking a fork in – they should be soft inside.
Once they’re roasted, you can get creative by adding toppings like cheese, sour cream, and fresh veggies!
How to Make Cheesy Taco Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 6 medium-sized potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Beef Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
For Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 1/2 cup sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 45-50 minutes to cook, including roasting and baking. You’ll have a total of about 55-60 minutes before you can savor your Cheesy Taco Potatoes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will get it nice and hot for roasting those potatoes perfectly!
2. Prepare the Potatoes:
Wash and scrub the potatoes thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt. Pat them dry with a towel, and then use a fork to prick each potato a few times. This helps the steam escape as they cook.
3. Roast the Potatoes:
Rub the potatoes with olive oil, then season them with salt and pepper. Place them on a baking sheet and roast in the preheated oven for 40-50 minutes. They should be tender when pierced with a fork. Keep an eye on them around the 40-minute mark!
4. Cook the Beef:
While the potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This takes about 5-7 minutes.
5. Season the Beef:
If there’s excess fat in the skillet, drain it. Now, add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the beef. Stir everything together and let it simmer until the sauce thickens, which should take about 5 minutes.
6. Prepare the Potatoes for Topping:
Once the potatoes are done roasting, take them out of the oven. You can cut them in half or create a shallow cut on top of each potato to open them up.
7. Assemble the Cheesy Taco Potatoes:
Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture evenly over each potato half. Don’t be shy—load it up! Then, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the beef.
8. Melt the Cheese:
Return the loaded potatoes to the oven for 5-7 more minutes or until the cheese is melty and bubbly. Yum!
9. Add the Toppings:
Once the cheese has melted, take the potatoes out of the oven. Top each with diced tomatoes and sliced green onions for freshness.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Finish off with a lovely dollop of sour cream right in the center of each potato. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Cheesy Taco Potatoes!
Can I Use Other Types of Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time as needed based on the type of meat you choose.
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Taco Seasoning?
No worries! You can easily make your own taco seasoning using common spices. Combine 1 tablespoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Adjust the spices to suit your taste!
Can I Make These Potatoes in Advance?
You can pre-cook the potatoes and even prepare the beef mixture a day ahead. Just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the potatoes briefly, assemble with the beef and cheese, and bake until everything is hot and the cheese is melted!
How Can I Store Leftover Cheesy Taco Potatoes?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them into the microwave or place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You may add a little extra cheese to make them even more delicious!
