Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Here’s a comfort food mashup that never disappoints: Cheesy Taco Potatoes — crispy or roasted potatoes topped with seasoned taco meat, melty cheese, and all your favorite toppings. It’s like loaded nachos, but heartier. Perfect for dinner, parties, or game night!

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🌮🧀 Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Serves: 4–6 | Total Time: ~45 mins

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🛒 Ingredients:

For the Potatoes:

• 4–5 medium russet or Yukon gold 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 (450g) ground beef (or turkey)

• 1 packet (or 2 tbsp) taco seasoning

• ⅓ cup water

Toppings:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese

• Sour cream

• Green onions, sliced

• Diced tomatoes or salsa

• Jalapeños (fresh or pickled)

• Avocado or guacamole

• Hot sauce (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 & pepper.

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

4. Roast for 30–35 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy and golden.

🔧 Shortcut option: Use frozen diced potatoes or hash browns — just bake or fry until crisp.

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2. Cook the Taco Meat:

1. In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat.

2. Drain excess grease if needed.

3. Add taco seasoning + water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until thickened.

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3. Assemble & Bake:

1. Once potatoes are crispy, transfer to a casserole dish or keep on the tray.

2. Top with taco meat and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

3. Return to oven for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.

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4. Load it Up:

Top with your favorite taco fixings:

• A dollop of sour cream

• Chopped green onions

• Diced tomatoes or salsa

• Jalapeños for heat

• Avocado slices or guac

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🧠 Tips & Variations:

• Vegetarian version: Use black beans or lentils instead of meat.

• Breakfast twist: Top with scrambled eggs and salsa.

• Make it spicy: Mix chipotle or hot sauce into the taco meat.

• Cheesy overload? Mix nacho cheese or queso in instead of shredded.

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Would you like a one-skillet stovetop version, or a make-ahead casserole version for meal prep or potlucks?