Name: Cheesy Taco Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 medium russet or Yukon gold potatoes; 1 lb ground beef or turkey; 1 packet taco seasoning; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup sour cream; 1/2 cup chopped green onions; 1/2 cup sliced olives (optional)

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Get ready for a fiesta with Cheesy Taco Potatoes! These loaded spuds are bursting with flavor, making them the perfect crowd-pleaser. Imagine crispy potatoes topped with zesty taco seasoning, gooey cheese, and your favorite toppings—it’s a dish that’s sure to impress everyone at the table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite is a harmonious blend of savory, cheesy, and spicy flavors.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on your dietary needs or taste preferences.
Great for Groups: Perfect for gatherings, parties, or a simple family meal.
Kid-Friendly: The cheesy goodness is a hit with kids and adults alike!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Cheesy Taco Potatoes lies in their simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a unique role in creating a dish that’s not just delicious but also visually appealing.

Potatoes: Choose russet or Yukon gold for a fluffy interior and crispy skin.
Ground Beef or Turkey: This adds protein and a hearty flavor to your dish.
Taco Seasoning: A blend of spices that brings that classic taco flavor to the potatoes.
Cheddar Cheese: The star of the show, melting beautifully over the potatoes.
Sour Cream: A creamy topping that balances the spices and adds richness.
Green Onions: Fresh and crunchy, they add a pop of color and flavor.
Olives: Optional, but they bring a briny contrast that works wonderfully.

Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Variations for Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Feel free to get creative with your Cheesy Taco Potatoes! This dish is incredibly versatile, allowing for adjustments based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.

Vegetarian Version: Substitute ground meat with black beans or lentils for a hearty vegetarian option.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce for an extra layer of heat.
Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese for a different flavor profile.
Additional Toppings: Top with guacamole, fresh salsa, or diced tomatoes for freshness.
Sweet Potatoes: Use sweet potatoes for a naturally sweet twist on this classic dish.

Cheesy Taco Potatoes That Everyone Will Love

How to Make Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash, peel, and dice the potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Place them in a bowl, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 2: Roast the Potatoes

Spread the potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Meat

While the potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, then stir in the taco seasoning and a splash of water. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 4: Combine

Once the potatoes are done roasting, remove them from the oven and lower the temperature to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, combine the roasted potatoes with the seasoned meat. Mix well to ensure each potato is coated.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese generously over the potato and meat mixture. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Pro Tips for Making Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Uniform Size: Cutting the potatoes into uniform sizes ensures even cooking.
Don’t Skip the Roasting: Roasting the potatoes first gives them a wonderful texture.
Experiment with Seasoning: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the meat for an extra flavor boost.
Make it Ahead: Prepare the potatoes and meat in advance for a quick weeknight dinner.
Use a Cast Iron Skillet: If you have one, it retains heat well and promotes even cooking.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Garnishes

Top your Cheesy Taco Potatoes with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of lime juice for added brightness and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a refreshing salad, Mexican street corn, or tortilla chips with salsa for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Cheesy Taco Potatoes in individual bowls or cups, allowing guests to customize their toppings as they please.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Freezing

If you want to prepare Cheesy Taco Potatoes in advance, you can freeze the potato and meat mixture after baking. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Reheating

To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but the texture may not be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat?

Absolutely! Ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat alternatives work wonderfully in this recipe.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free taco seasoning, your Cheesy Taco Potatoes can be gluten-free!

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Of course! Simply replace the ground meat with black beans, lentils, or any other meat substitute you prefer.

What toppings do you recommend?

Some popular toppings include sour cream, guacamole, diced avocado, or fresh pico de gallo for a refreshing kick.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you like it hot, add diced jalapeños, crushed red pepper, or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

Final Thoughts

Now that you have the scoop on how to make these fantastic Cheesy Taco Potatoes, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home, just like it is in mine. Enjoy every cheesy, flavorful bite!