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Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe

Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe

5.3 from 23 reviews

Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a delicious and satisfying twist on classic loaded baked potatoes. These hearty potatoes are stuffed with flavorful seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and topped with fresh sour cream, green onions, tomatoes, black olives, and cilantro, making for a perfect family-friendly meal packed with Tex-Mex flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 large russet potatoes
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Beef Filling

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • Water as per taco seasoning packet instructions

Toppings

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions
  • 1/4 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup sliced black olives
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the potatoes.
  2. Prep Potatoes: Scrub the russet potatoes thoroughly and pat them dry. Pierce each potato several times using a fork to allow steam to escape.
  3. Season Potatoes: Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle them evenly with salt and pepper to enhance flavor and help crisp the skin.
  4. Bake Potatoes: Place the prepared potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Cook Beef: While the potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef, and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
  6. Add Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning and the amount of water recommended on the seasoning packet. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5 minutes until the flavors meld. Then remove from heat.
  7. Prepare Potatoes for Filling: When the potatoes are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool slightly. Cut a slit down the top of each potato and gently squeeze the sides to open it up.
  8. Fill Potatoes: Spoon the seasoned ground beef mixture into each potato cavity, filling them generously.
  9. Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef-stuffed potatoes.
  10. Melt Cheese: Return the stuffed potatoes to the oven for 5 more minutes, or until the cheese has fully melted and is bubbly.
  11. Top and Serve: Remove the potatoes from the oven and top each with dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, and chopped cilantro. Serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

  • Russet potatoes are ideal for baking because of their starchy texture which yields a fluffy interior.
  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • Adjust the amount of taco seasoning according to your taste preference, especially if you prefer milder or spicier flavors.
  • Feel free to add other toppings like jalapeños or avocado for extra flavor variations.
  • To save time, potatoes can be pre-cooked in the microwave, then finished in the oven for a crispier skin.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy Taco Potatoes, baked potatoes, taco stuffed potatoes, Tex-Mex recipes, ground beef potato recipe, easy weeknight dinner