Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe unmistakable aroma of Cheesy Taco Potatoes fills my kitchen, instantly transforming an ordinary evening into a delightful family gathering. These gem-like potatoes are a comforting twist on traditional tacos, combining fluffy russet potatoes with seasoned ground beef and a gooey layer of melted cheddar cheese. What I love most about this recipe is its customizable nature; you can easily make it vegetarian by swapping the beef for black beans or lentils. It’s the perfect blend of quick prep and heartwarming flavors, making it a go-to dish for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Just imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they dig into these cheesy, flavorful creations! Are you ready to dive into this comfort food adventure? Why are Cheesy Taco Potatoes irresistible? Satisfying Comfort: The combination of fluffy russet potatoes and savory ground beef creates a dish that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia. Customizable Goodness: Easily transform this recipe into a vegetarian delight by swapping beef for black beans or lentils, so everyone can enjoy. Effortless Preparation: Quick to assemble and bake, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: With gooey melted cheese and an array of toppings, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite at family gatherings, much like my Cheesy Ranch Potatoes. Texture Fusion: Experience the joy of soft potatoes topped with crunchy vegetables and creamy sour cream for a delightful contrast. Cheesy Taco Potatoes Ingredients For the Potatoes • Large Russet Potatoes – These fluffy beauties form the heart of the dish; be sure to scrub them clean for the best flavor. • Olive Oil – Rubbing the potatoes with this oil adds flavor and helps achieve that crispy skin we all love. For the Filling • Ground Beef – Provides a savory flavor and protein that makes the dish hearty; feel free to swap for black beans or lentils for a vegetarian version. • Taco Seasoning – This spice mix adds depth and exciting flavors to the meat; consider making your own blend for a personal touch! For the Toppings • Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Melts beautifully and provides rich creaminess; use Monterey Jack or vegan cheese if you prefer a different cheese. • Sour Cream – This creamy addition cools down the spices; Greek yogurt works well for a tangy alternative. • Chopped Green Onions – Adds a fresh crunch and mild onion flavor; omit if you’re not a fan of onions. • Diced Tomatoes – Provides a refreshing burst of acidity; pico de gallo is a great substitute for added texture. • Sliced Black Olives – Offers briny flavor and additional texture; feel free to leave them out if preferred. • Chopped Cilantro – A fresh herb that brightens up the dish; parsley is a perfect alternative if cilantro isn’t your thing. Essentials • Salt and Pepper – The dynamic duo of seasonings that enhance all flavors in this Cheesy Taco Potatoes dish! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Taco Potatoes Step 1: Preheat the Oven Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This is an essential step as it ensures the Cheesy Taco Potatoes will bake evenly, resulting in perfectly fluffy interiors with a crisp outer skin. As the oven warms up, you’ll feel the anticipation for the delightful aroma that will soon fill your kitchen. Step 2: Prep the Potatoes While the oven heats, scrub the large russet potatoes under cold running water to remove any dirt. Next, pierce each potato several times with a fork—this helps steam escape while baking. Rub the skins with olive oil and season them generously with salt and pepper, ensuring they’re coated for maximum flavor. Step 3: Bake the Potatoes Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes, until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork and the skins are golden. Keep an eye on them towards the end; you want them soft but not bursting open. Step 4: Cook the Ground Beef In a skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it browns. Cook for about 7-10 minutes until it’s thoroughly cooked and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat and sprinkle in taco seasoning, stirring well to combine. Simmer as directed on the seasoning packet for an even layer of flavor. Step 5: Assemble the Potatoes Once the potatoes are baked to perfection, carefully slice each potato lengthwise, creating an opening to fluff the insides with a fork. Fill each potato generously with the seasoned beef mixture, ensuring an equal distribution of flavor within each Cheesy Taco Potato. Step 6: Add Cheese and Melt Sprinkle a hefty amount of shredded cheddar cheese on top of each filled potato. Return them to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, monitoring closely until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden. This step is crucial to creating that gooey, cheesy finish that makes these tacos so irresistible. Step 7: Garnish and Serve Once your Cheesy Taco Potatoes are beautifully melted, take them out and let them cool slightly. Drizzle with salsa, add dollops of sour cream, and sprinkle with chopped cilantro for a fresh finish. This final touch of garnishing elevates the dish, making it not only delicious but visually appealing for you and your family. What to Serve with Cheesy Taco Potatoes Transform your meal into a delightful feast by pairing these scrumptious Cheesy Taco Potatoes with complementary sides and drinks. Crispy Taco Salad: A fresh mix of lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado adds a crunchy contrast and enhances the meal with vibrant flavors. Creamy Guacamole: This smooth avocado dip brings a luscious texture that balances the hearty potatoes, making each bite even more heavenly. Zesty Corn Salsa: Bursting with sweetness and spice, this salsa elevates the flavor profile and adds a refreshing element to the dish. Chips and Fresh Salsa: A classic combination that offers a satisfying crunch; the zesty salsa will perfectly complement the cheesy potatoes. Mexican Street Corn: The creaminess of the corn, combined with lime and spices, echoes the flavors of the Cheesy Taco Potatoes and adds an exciting twist. Spanish Rice: Fluffy, flavorful rice acts as a great base for leftovers, ensuring that no bite goes to waste and that your meal is fully rounded. Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and acidity, perfectly contrasting the rich cheese and meat, enhancing the overall experience. Light Beer: Pairing with a crisp, light beer such as a pilsner will complement the rich flavors without overwhelming your palate. Brownies or Churros: For dessert, a slice of fudgy brownies or crispy churros drizzled with chocolate sauce provides a sweet finish after the savory main course. Make Ahead Options These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are ideal for meal prep enthusiasts! You can bake the russet potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, scrub, pierce, and season your potatoes as directed, then bake them until tender. Once cooled, simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the baked potatoes in the oven while preparing the ground beef filling. Simply assemble with cheese and toppings, then return to the oven for 10-15 minutes to melt the cheese before serving. This approach not only saves you time but ensures the Cheesy Taco Potatoes are just as delicious as when freshly made! Storage Tips for Cheesy Taco Potatoes Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Be sure to separate toppings if possible to keep everything fresh. Freezer: Freeze assembled but unbaked Cheesy Taco Potatoes in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking for best results. Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for quick meals, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Airtight Guidance: Always use airtight containers for storage to prevent moisture and keep your Cheesy Taco Potatoes tasting just as delicious as the day they were made! Expert Tips for Cheesy Taco Potatoes Perfectly Fluffy Potatoes: Bake until fork-tender; undercooking can lead to dense interiors. Aim for that melt-in-your-mouth texture! Even Seasoning: Mix taco seasoning thoroughly into the meat to avoid bland bites. A well-seasoned filling is key to flavor. Watch the Cheese: Keep an eye on the cheese as it melts; remove from oven once it’s bubbly and golden to prevent burning. Fresh Toppings: Add toppings right before serving to maintain their freshness and crunch; this enhances flavor and presentation. Meal Prep Option: Prepare the filling in advance and bake potatoes ahead; assemble the final dish for effortless mealtime enjoyment! Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re serving a crowd, keep sliced jalapeños on the side for those who enjoy extra heat in their Cheesy Taco Potatoes. Cheesy Taco Potatoes Variations & Substitutions Feel free to play with these ideas to make the Cheesy Taco Potatoes uniquely your own; the flavors are just waiting to burst with your personal touch! Vegetarian Option: Swap out ground beef for black beans or cooked lentils to create a hearty plant-based dish. This simple replacement brings a wholesome twist filled with protein and texture. Cheese Variants: Substitute shredded cheddar with pepper jack for a spicy kick or queso fresco for a lighter flavor. Explore different cheese options to tantalize your taste buds. Taco Bar: Set up a vibrant taco bar with additional toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, and fresh avocado, allowing everyone to customize their potatoes. This interactive meal transforms dining into a fun event. Dairy-Free: Use a vegan cheese shreds instead of traditional cheese and coconut yogurt or cashew cream as a substitute for sour cream. It’s a delicious way to keep everyone happy at the table! Add Some Heat: If you’re feeling adventurous, toss in diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for added spice. This extra layer of flavor will set your Cheesy Taco Potatoes apart! Nutty Crunch: For an unexpected crunch, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips or toasted pepitas on top before serving. This simple addition adds not only texture but also a delightful contrast to the creamy cheese. Chili Twist: Try adding a spoonful of your favorite chili to the meat mixture for a scrumptious combination of flavors that creates an entirely new dining experience! This is perfect for the chili lovers in your life. Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or cumin in the meat mixture for additional depth. Even a touch of smoked paprika can bring that Mexican flair to life! No matter how you choose to mix things up, these options will definitely enhance your Cheesy Taco Potatoes experience. And if you’re ever in the mood for something similar, you might also enjoy my Cheesy Ranch Potatoes or Garlic Butter Potatoes as delightful alternatives! Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe FAQs How do I choose the best potatoes for Cheesy Taco Potatoes? Absolutely! Opt for large russet potatoes, as they provide the fluffiness needed for this dish. Look for potatoes that are firm and free of dark spots or blemishes. Scrub them clean before use to ensure the best flavor. How should I store leftovers of Cheesy Taco Potatoes? Leftovers can be safely stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To enjoy them later, separate the toppings if possible to keep everything fresh. Just reheat in the microwave or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Potatoes, and if so, how? Yes, you can freeze Cheesy Taco Potatoes! I recommend assembling but not baking them first. Place the potatoes in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. To bake, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then bake as directed for delicious results! What if my cheese doesn’t melt properly? The cheese melting can sometimes be a bit tricky. Make sure to keep an eye on it as it melts; aim for bubbly and golden. If it’s not melting well, you might want to tweak your oven temperature slightly or cover the potatoes loosely with aluminum foil during baking to help it melt more evenly. Are Cheesy Taco Potatoes suitable for a vegetarian diet? Very! Simply swap the ground beef for black beans or cooked lentils to create a hearty and satisfying vegetarian option. Also, ensure to choose vegetarian-friendly toppings like cheese or plant-based alternatives which are easily available nowadays. Can I customize the toppings on Cheesy Taco Potatoes? The more the merrier! Feel free to add your favorite toppings like diced jalapeños for a kick, or sliced avocados for a creamy texture. With so many options available, you can make each serving uniquely delicious and tailored to your taste! Cheesy Taco Potatoes: Your New Favorite Comfort Food Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a comforting twist on traditional tacos, combining fluffy russet potatoes with seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 1 hour hrTotal Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins Servings: 4 potatoesCourse: DinnerCuisine: AmericanCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Potatoes4 large Russet Potatoes Scrubbed clean2 tablespoons Olive Oil For rubbing on potatoesFor the Filling1 pound Ground Beef Can substitute with black beans or lentils1 packet Taco Seasoning Store-bought or homemadeFor the Toppings2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese Or Monterey Jack or vegan cheese1 cup Sour Cream Can use Greek yogurt as an alternative1/2 cup Chopped Green Onions Optional1 cup Diced Tomatoes Pico de gallo can be a substitute1/2 cup Sliced Black Olives Optional1/4 cup Chopped Cilantro Can substitute with parsleyto taste Salt and Pepper For seasoning Equipment OvenSkilletBaking sheetForkSpatula Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).Scrub the large russet potatoes under cold running water. Pierce each potato several times with a fork and rub with olive oil, seasoning generously with salt and pepper.Place the prepared potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes until tender.In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks for about 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning.Slice each potato lengthwise, fluff the insides with a fork, and fill with the seasoned beef mixture.Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top of each filled potato and return to the oven for 10-15 minutes to melt.Garnish with salsa, sour cream, and chopped cilantro before serving. Nutrition Serving: 1potatoCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 42gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gTrans Fat: 1gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 1000mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg NotesStore leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For freezing, assemble but do not bake, and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!