Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe

Introduction

These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are the perfect easy weeknight dinner that combines two family favorites into one delicious meal. Loaded baked potatoes get a flavorful upgrade with seasoned taco meat and melted cheese. For an extra flavor boost, try using This Easy Homemade Taco Seasoning Recipe. This simple dish comes together quickly for a satisfying comfort food everyone will love.

Ingredients

These savory ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering Cheesy Taco Potatoes dish with layers of seasoned beef, tender potatoes, and gooey melted cheese.

• 1 lb ground beef
• ½ cup diced onions
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup green onions, chopped (plus more for garnish)
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)
• ¼ cup water
• 1 10 oz can Rotel or ½ cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp all-purpose chicken seasoning
• 1 tsp Yo Who’s Hungry seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese (or 2 cups Mexican blend)
• Pickled jalapeños, sliced (optional for garnish)

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	45 minutes
Total Time	1 hour

Context: These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are ready about 20% faster than similar loaded potato recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prep Your Potatoes

Start by scrubbing 4 large russet potatoes clean under running water. Pat them dry thoroughly with a kitchen towel. Prick each potato several times with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking.

Rub the potatoes lightly with olive oil and sprinkle with coarse salt. This will help create a crispy skin as they bake.

Step 2 — Bake the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, depending on size.

Your potatoes are done when the skins are crisp and you can easily pierce them with a fork. The internal temperature should reach about 210°F when fully cooked.

Step 3 — Cook the Taco Filling

While potatoes bake, brown 1 pound of ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess grease once fully cooked.

Add 1 packet of taco seasoning and ¾ cup of water to the skillet. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the liquid reduces and the mixture thickens.

Step 4 — Prepare Potato Shells

Once potatoes are cool enough to handle, slice them in half lengthwise. Carefully scoop out most of the potato flesh, leaving about ¼-inch border to maintain structure.

Place the hollowed potato shells on a baking sheet. Lightly brush the insides with melted butter or oil to prevent drying out.

Step 5 — Mix the Cheesy Potato Filling

In a medium bowl, combine the scooped potato flesh with 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, ¼ cup of sour cream, and 2 tablespoons of butter. Mash until smooth and well combined.

Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, you can mix in ¼ cup of chopped green onions or cilantro.

Step 6 — Assemble Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Divide the taco meat mixture evenly among the potato shells, pressing it gently into the bottom. Top with the cheesy potato mixture, spreading it to cover the meat completely.

Sprinkle an additional ½ cup of shredded cheese over the top of each potato half for that extra cheesy finish.

Step 7 — Bake Until Golden and Bubbly

Return the assembled potatoes to a 375°F oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Watch for the cheese to melt completely and become bubbly around the edges.

For a golden brown top, broil for the final 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. The potatoes are ready when heated through and beautifully golden.

Step 8 — Add Fresh Toppings and Serve

Remove your Cheesy Taco Potatoes from the oven and let them rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the fillings to set slightly for easier eating.

Top with fresh diced tomatoes, sliced olives, chopped lettuce, jalapeños, and a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for the ultimate taco experience.

Nutritional Information

Calories	420
Protein	22g
Carbohydrates	38g
Fat	18g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	890mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Lean Ground Turkey — A lighter protein option that still absorbs taco seasoning beautifully.
• Lentils or Black Beans — A plant-based, high-fiber alternative to ground meat.
• Sweet Potatoes — Swap regular potatoes for a nutrient-dense, lower-carb base.
• Nutritional Yeast or Vegan Cheese — Dairy-free options that provide a cheesy flavor.
• Low-Sodium Taco Seasoning — Control salt intake by using a homemade or reduced-sodium blend.
• Greek Yogurt or Cashew Cream — A tangy, protein-rich substitute for sour cream.
• Cauliflower Rice — Mix into the filling for extra veggies and fewer carbs.
• Corn Tortilla Strips — A gluten-free topping alternative to flour tortilla chips.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair these Cheesy Taco Potatoes with a crisp side salad or fresh pico de gallo to balance the richness.
• Serve as a fun, interactive meal for taco Tuesdays or casual family dinners.
• Top with extra shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of sour cream for added freshness.
• Offer alongside warm tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a complete Tex-Mex experience.
• Perfect for game day gatherings or potlucks—easy to transport and always a crowd-pleaser.
• Garnish with sliced jalapeños and fresh cilantro for a vibrant, restaurant-style presentation.

For a heartier meal, consider adding a side of seasoned black beans or Spanish rice. These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are versatile enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive for entertaining.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Using waxy potatoes that don’t get fluffy. Fix: Choose starchy Russet or Idaho potatoes for a light, fluffy interior that soaks up the taco flavors.
• Mistake: Overloading potatoes with toppings, making them soggy. Fix: Layer toppings strategically, starting with a cheese base to create a moisture barrier.
• Mistake: Underseasoning the taco meat and potatoes. Fix: Season the potato skins with oil and salt before baking, and taste your taco meat for seasoning.
• Mistake: Rushing the potato baking process. Fix: Bake potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 45-60 minutes until fork-tender for the perfect texture.
• Mistake: Using pre-shredded cheese that doesn’t melt smoothly. Fix: Shred block cheese yourself for superior meltability and creaminess.
• Mistake: Adding cold toppings that cool the dish down. Fix: Bring sour cream and other cold toppings to room temperature before serving.
• Mistake: Not creating a stable base for the potato. Fix: Slice a small portion off the bottom of each potato so they sit flat and don’t tip over.
• Mistake: Skipping the potato fluffing step after baking. Fix: Gently fluff the inside of the potato with a fork before adding fillings to create more surface area.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Taco Potatoes in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: Reheat in the oven or microwave until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

For best results, thaw frozen Cheesy Taco Potatoes in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Conclusion

We hope you enjoy making these delicious Cheesy Taco Potatoes! If you try this recipe, please leave a comment or rating below. For more easy dinner ideas like our Taco Spaghetti Recipe or Brisket Elote Tacos Recipe, be sure to subscribe for updates.

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FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Taco Potatoes ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble Cheesy Taco Potatoes ahead of time. Prepare all the components, then store them covered in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven before serving for the best texture.

What are the best potatoes to use for Cheesy Taco Potatoes?

Russet potatoes work best for Cheesy Taco Potatoes because they bake up fluffy. Their thick skin also holds the taco filling well, making them a sturdy base for this delicious recipe.

How can I make Cheesy Taco Potatoes spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the taco meat. You can also use a spicier taco seasoning blend to easily increase the heat in your Cheesy Taco Potatoes.