Description
Taco Potatoes are a delicious fusion of crispy baked potatoes and classic taco flavors. Fluffy on the inside and crispy on the outside, these potatoes are loaded with savory seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, fresh toppings, and a dollop of sour cream. Perfect for a hearty meal or a fun twist on taco night!
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 medium-sized Russet Potatoes (or Yukon Gold)
- 1 lb Ground Beef (or turkey/chicken)
- 2 tbsp Taco Seasoning
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Butter
- Salt & Pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup Shredded Cheese (cheddar, Mexican blend, etc.)
- ½ cup Sour Cream
- ½ cup Diced Tomatoes
- ¼ cup Green Onions, sliced
- Jalapeños (optional, to taste)
Instructions
Step 1: Bake the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry.
- Poke each potato a few times with a fork, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
- Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until they are fork-tender.
Step 2: Prepare the Taco Filling
- While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and ¼ cup water. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the seasoning is well absorbed.
Step 3: Assemble the Taco Potatoes
- Once the potatoes are done, let them cool for a few minutes. Slice each potato open lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork.
- Add a small pat of butter inside each potato and season with salt & pepper.
- Spoon the seasoned beef into each potato, then top with shredded cheese.
- Return to the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese is melted.
Step 4: Add Toppings & Serve
- Remove from the oven and top each potato with sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, and jalapeños (if using).
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For a crispy potato skin, bake the potatoes directly on the oven rack instead of a baking sheet.
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
- If short on time, microwave the potatoes for 10-12 minutes, then crisp them in a 425°F oven for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Taco Potato
- Calories: ~450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 65mg