Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a hearty, flavor-packed dish that layers crispy roasted potatoes with seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for weeknight dinners, game day spreads, or casual get-togethers. Think of it as a taco casserole meets loaded potato skins—easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to disappear fast.
Ingredients:
- 6 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tablespoons homemade)
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Optional toppings: sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, avocado, salsa
Instructions:
1. Roast the Potatoes
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fork-tender.
2. Cook the Taco Beef
- While the potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink—about 5–7 minutes.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the beef.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Transfer the roasted potatoes to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Spoon the taco beef evenly over the potatoes.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.
4. Bake Until Bubbly
- Return the dish to the oven and bake for 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Add Toppings and Serve
- Let the casserole cool for a few minutes.
- Top with your favorite taco fixings—sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, or avocado.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
- Pair with a crisp green salad or corn on the cob.
- Add tortilla chips on the side for scooping.
Tips & Variations:
- Make it spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning.
- Swap the protein: Use ground turkey, shredded chicken, or black beans for a different twist.
- Add veggies: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Make it a skillet meal: Cook everything in an oven-safe skillet and bake directly in it for fewer dishes.
Cheesy Taco Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up—crispy, cheesy, and bursting with taco flavor. Want a breakfast version with eggs and chorizo or a vegetarian twist with black beans and roasted peppers? I’d love to help you whip it up!