Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe – Perfect Weeknight Meal

Looking for the best Cheesy Taco Potato recipe? You’ve come to the right place! This dish combines two of everyone’s favorite comfort foods: cheesy potatoes and taco-flavored ground beef. It’s a quick, easy, and budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing cheesy taco bake that’s packed with bold flavors and creamy textures. Plus, it’s easy to customize and can be served as a main dish or a hearty side. Let’s dive into this irresistible recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 50 minutes from start to finish.
  • Loaded with Flavor: Cheddar cheese, taco seasoning, and beef make every bite irresistible.
  • Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like guacamole or salsa.
  • Family Favorite: Ideal for weeknight dinners or game-day parties.
  • Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and reheat for a quick meal.

Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Potato

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Substitutions and Variations:

  • Ground Beef Alternatives: Try ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
  • Cheese Options: Swap cheddar for Monterey Jack, Colby, or a Mexican blend.
  • Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper.
  • Low-Carb Option: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets.
Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe - Perfect Weeknight Meal
Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe – optimalrecipes.com

How to Make Cheesy Taco Potato – Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a crispy, roasted potato base.

Step 2: Cook the Onions and Beef

  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Add diced onions and cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
  • Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it browns.
  • Cook until no pink remains. Drain excess fat.

Step 3: Season the Beef

  • Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes.
  • Simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes

  • Toss diced potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
  • Spread potatoes evenly in a baking dish.

Step 5: Bake the Potatoes

  • Roast in the oven for 20 minutes, stirring halfway through for even cooking.

Step 6: Combine and Finish Baking

  • Remove the potatoes from the oven.
  • Layer the cooked beef mixture on top.
  • Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar cheese.
  • Bake for another 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

  • Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
  • Top with sour cream and fresh cilantro before serving.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Cheesy Taco Potato

  • Extra Crispy Potatoes: Toss potatoes with a bit of cornstarch before roasting for added crunch.
  • Perfect Beef Texture: Cook the beef until fully browned to avoid a greasy dish.
  • Layering Tip: Always layer cheese on top of the beef mixture for the best melted texture.
  • Make It a Casserole: Add a layer of refried beans under the beef for a more filling dish.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Taco Potato

  • Main Dish: Pair with a fresh salad and warm tortillas.
  • Side Dish: Serve alongside grilled chicken or Mexican rice.
  • Toppings: Try pico de gallo, guacamole, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
  • Game Day Option: Serve as loaded nacho-style potatoes with toppings in separate bowls.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Servings: 4

Storage & Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze individual portions in sealed containers for up to 2 months.
  • Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes or microwave until warm.

FAQs for Cheesy Taco Potato

Can I make Cheesy Taco Potato ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the beef mixture a day in advance and store it separately. Assemble and bake when ready.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a hint of sweetness that pairs well with taco seasoning.

What’s the best cheese for this recipe?
Cheddar is classic, but a blend of cheddar and pepper jack works great for a spicy twist.

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe is your new go-to for a satisfying, flavor-packed meal. Whether you’re making it for family dinner or a casual get-together, it’s sure to be a hit. Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out!

What’s your favorite way to make cheesy potatoes? Leave a comment below and share your tips! Plus, don’t forget to share this recipe with friends who love cheesy, taco-inspired dishes.

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Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe - Perfect Weeknight Meal

Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe – Perfect Weeknight Meal


  • Author: Patricia
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Halal

Description

This Cheesy Taco Potato recipe combines hearty potatoes, seasoned beef, and gooey cheddar cheese for a delicious, easy-to-make comfort food dish perfect for weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 4 cups diced potatoes
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup diced onions
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté onions until soft.
  3. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
  4. Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Meanwhile, in a large bowl, toss diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  6. Spread the seasoned potatoes in a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes.
  7. Remove from the oven, add the beef mixture on top, and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
  8. Return to the oven and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
  10. Serve topped with sour cream and fresh cilantro.

Notes

  • For extra crispy potatoes, toss with a pinch of cornstarch before roasting.
  • To add a spicy kick, include diced jalapeños when layering the beef mixture.
  • Substitute ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter version.
  • Serve with a side of Mexican rice or fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 680 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 25 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 20 g
  • Cholesterol: 65 mg

Keywords: Cheesy Taco Potato Recipe, Taco Potato Casserole, Cheesy Beef and Potato Bake, Loaded Taco Potatoes, Easy Cheesy Potato Dish

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