There’s nothing better than a dish that combines two delicious comfort foods—tacos and baked potatoes.

That’s exactly what Taco Potatoes are: a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal that brings together crispy baked potatoes, seasoned taco meat, melted cheese, and fresh toppings.

This dish is perfect for a casual family dinner, game day, or whenever you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and packed with bold taco flavors.

Here’s Why You’ll Love Taco Potatoes

Taco Potatoes are incredibly easy to make, requiring just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal prep work.

They’re also highly customizable, allowing you to add your favorite taco toppings like guacamole, jalapeños, or extra cheese to make them just the way you like.

This dish is family-friendly, making it a hit with both kids and adults who love the comforting combination of baked potatoes and bold taco flavors.

If you enjoy meal prepping, Taco Potatoes are a great choice since you can prepare the taco meat in advance and quickly assemble everything when you’re ready to eat.

Plus, they’re budget-friendly, using inexpensive, easy-to-find ingredients that make for a satisfying and affordable meal.

What Kind of Potatoes Are Best for Taco Potatoes?

The best potatoes for Taco Potatoes are Russet potatoes. They have a fluffy interior and a crispy skin when baked.

You can also use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamier texture or red potatoes for a slightly firmer bite. If you prefer bite-sized portions, use baby potatoes and turn this into a fun appetizer!

Tips for the Best Taco Potatoes

  • Bake the potatoes until crispy – A crispy skin makes for the best texture.
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  • Season well – Don’t forget to season the potatoes and meat generously.
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  • Melt the cheese properly – Add the cheese while the potatoes are still hot so it melts beautifully.
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  • Add toppings just before serving – Fresh toppings like tomatoes, scallions, and sour cream taste best when added last.

What To Serve With Taco Potatoes

Taco Potatoes are a satisfying meal on their own, but you can serve them with:

  • Mexican Rice – A great side dish to soak up all the flavors.
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  • Refried Beans or Black Beans – Adds extra protein and creaminess.
    .
  • Side Salad – A fresh green salad with lime vinaigrette balances the richness.
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  • Tortilla Chips & Salsa – A crunchy side option to round out the meal.
Taco Potatoes
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Taco Potatoes

Recipe by JoanneCourse: MainCuisine: Tex-MexDifficulty: Easy
Servings

4

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking time

1

hour
Calories per serving

500

kcal

Ingredients

  • 4 large Russet potatoes

  • 1 pound ground beef

  • 1 small onion, diced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning

  • 1/2 cup water

  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

  • 1/4 cup chopped green onions

  • 1/2 cup sour cream

  • 1/2 cup shredded lettuce (optional)

  • 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

  • 1/4 cup taco sauce or salsa (optional)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

  • Prepare the Potatoes:
  • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pierce them with a fork several times.
  • Rub each potato with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
  • Place on a baking sheet and bake for 50-60 minutes until soft and crispy.
  • Cook the Taco Meat:
  • Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
  • Add the diced onion and cook for 2 minutes until softened.
  • Stir in the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
  • Drain excess grease, then add the garlic, taco seasoning, and 1/2 cup water.
  • Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat absorbs the flavors.
  • Assemble the Taco Potatoes:
  • Cut each baked potato in half and fluff the inside with a fork.
  • Spoon taco meat evenly over each potato.
  • Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top and allow it to melt.
  • Add diced tomatoes, green onions, and any additional toppings of your choice.
  • Finish with a dollop of sour cream and a drizzle of taco sauce or salsa if desired.

Notes

  • Swap ground beef for ground turkey, shredded chicken, or black beans for a different twist.
  • Use Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
  • Add guacamole or avocado slices for a creamy contrast.

    Storage and Warming Leftovers

    • Refrigeration: Store leftover taco meat and potatoes separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
      .
    • Reheating: Warm the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave for 2 minutes.
      .
    • Freezing: Freeze cooked taco meat for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

    Nutritional Information

    The nutritional content of Taco Potatoes can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving:

    NutrientAmount per Serving% Daily Value
    Calories500 kcal–
    Carbohydrates45 g16%
    Protein30 g60%
    Fat22 g28%
    Saturated Fat10 g50%
    Cholesterol60 mg20%
    Fiber6 g21%
    Sugar4 g–
    Sodium800 mg35%
    Potassium950 mg20%
    Vitamin A–15%
    Vitamin C–20%
    Calcium–25%
    Iron–18%

    Taco Potatoes