Description
Cheesy Taco Potatoes combine crispy roasted russet potatoes with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, and flavorful toppings for a hearty and delicious meal perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
Potatoes
- 1 ½ lbs russet potatoes (scrubbed and cut into small cubes)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Meat and Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- ⅓ cup water
Toppings
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and Monterey Jack)
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup chopped green onions or cilantro
- Optional: diced tomatoes, jalapeños, avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). In a large bowl, toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread the potatoes out on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer.
- Roast the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25 to 30 minutes. Flip them halfway through the cooking time to ensure even browning and crispiness. The potatoes should become golden and crispy when done.
- Cook the taco meat: While the potatoes roast, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning packet and ⅓ cup water, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the mixture to thicken and the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the dish: Once the potatoes are roasted, transfer them to a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish. Spread the seasoned ground beef evenly over the top of the potatoes.
- Add cheese and melt: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or cheese blend) evenly over the beef and potatoes. Place the skillet or dish back into the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and top with dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions or cilantro, and any optional toppings like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado slices. Serve warm and enjoy your cheesy taco potatoes!
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground beef to make a leaner version.
- Adjust spices according to your heat preference by adding more chili powder or jalapeños.
- To keep potatoes crispy, avoid overcrowding on the baking sheet during roasting.
- Use parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven for best results.
Keywords: taco potatoes, cheesy potatoes, ground beef recipe, baked potatoes, taco seasoning recipe, family dinner, easy weeknight meal