Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Here’s a bold, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, game day snack, or potluck crowd-pleaser:

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🧀🌮 Cheesy Taco Potatoes

🔥 Description:

A hearty mashup of loaded baked potatoes and taco night favorites—these cheesy taco potatoes feature seasoned ground beef, crispy roasted potatoes, melted cheese, and all your favorite toppings. Think of it as nachos… but with potatoes.

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📝 Ingredients

For the Potatoes:

• 4–5 medium russet potatoes, diced (skin on or off)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Taco Meat:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade — see below)

• ⅓ cup water

Homemade Taco Seasoning (optional):

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp smoked paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper (optional)

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup salsa or pico de gallo

• ¼ cup chopped green onions

• ¼ cup chopped cilantro

• Sliced jalapeños (optional)

• Diced avocado or guacamole (optional)

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🔪 Instructions

1. Roast the Potatoes

1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).

2. Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.

4. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy on edges.

2. Make the Taco Meat

1. While potatoes roast, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.

2. Add taco seasoning and water. Stir and simmer for 3–5 minutes until thickened.

3. Assemble

1. Once potatoes are done, transfer to a baking dish or leave on the sheet pan.

2. Top with cooked taco meat and shredded cheese.

3. Return to oven for 5 minutes, or until cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

4. Add Toppings

1. Remove from oven and top with sour cream, salsa, green onions, and any other toppings you like.

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🧂 Pro Tips:

• Shortcut: Use frozen diced potatoes (O’Brien style) or tater tots for a quicker version.

• Vegetarian Option: Swap in black beans, lentils, or crumbled tofu with taco seasoning.

• Extra Kick: Mix hot sauce or chipotle peppers into the meat or drizzle over the top.

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🎉 Serving Ideas:

• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.

• Turn into a loaded taco potato bowl by layering in individual bowls with rice or lettuce.

• Great for meal prep—just keep toppings separate until ready to eat.

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Would you like this formatted as a printable card or adapted for a crockpot, air fryer, or vegetarian version?