Taco Potatoes
A Family-Favorite Twist on Classic Baked Potatoes
Introduction
If you love tacos and baked potatoes, you’re about to fall head over heels for Taco Potatoes. This fun and hearty recipe combines crispy, fluffy Russet potatoes with savory taco-seasoned beef and melty cheddar cheese. It’s the perfect easy weeknight dinner that’s loaded with flavor, and it’s fully customizable with your favorite taco toppings. Whether you’re cooking for the family or meal-prepping for the week, this dish is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser and a repeat recipe in your rotation.
Ingredients
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 4 to 6 medium Russet potatoes
- 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Bake the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, then poke a few holes in each with a fork. Place directly on the oven rack and bake for 45–60 minutes, or until tender.
- Cook the taco meat: While the potatoes are baking, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Season the meat: Add the taco seasoning and ½ cup water to the skillet. Stir to combine and simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.
- Prepare the toppings: While the meat simmers, shred your cheddar cheese, dice the tomatoes, and chop the green onions for fresh, colorful toppings.
- Assemble the taco potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly, then slice each one open lengthwise. Fluff the insides with a fork.
- Fill them up: Spoon a generous amount of the taco meat into each potato. Top with cheddar cheese, a dollop of sour cream, tomatoes, and green onions.
- Serve and enjoy: These loaded taco potatoes are ready to enjoy immediately. Serve as a main dish with a side salad or chips and salsa for the full taco night experience!
Why You’ll Love Taco Potatoes
This dish is a great alternative to traditional tacos and a creative way to use up leftover potatoes or ground beef. It’s a budget-friendly dinner idea that delivers all the flavors of taco night in a cozy, satisfying format. Plus, each potato can be customized—perfect for picky eaters or big families.
Optional Add-Ons
- Spicy kick: Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce
- Avocado boost: Top with diced avocado or guacamole
- Extra crunch: Crumble tortilla chips over the top
- Healthier version: Use ground turkey or black beans instead of beef
Storage & Reheating
- Refrigerate: Store leftover potatoes and toppings separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days
- Reheat: Warm potatoes and meat in the microwave or oven. Add fresh toppings after reheating
- Freeze: You can freeze the taco meat for up to 2 months. Potatoes are best fresh
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 430 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
Final Thoughts
These loaded taco potatoes bring together the best of both worlds—comforting baked potatoes and flavorful taco fillings. It’s a kid-friendly recipe, perfect for casual dinners, meal prep, or game day gatherings. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked!