Name: Cheesy Taco Potatoes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey); 1 packet taco seasoning mix; 1/4 cup water; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup sour cream (optional); 1/2 cup salsa; 1/4 cup chopped green onions; 1/4 cup chopped cilantro; 1/4 cup sliced jalapeños (optional); 1/2 cup diced tomatoes

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A savory, hearty Cheesy Taco Potatoes that blends crispy roasted potatoes with flavorful taco-seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. I love serving this for a comforting weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing snack for game day. It’s the kind of recipe that always disappears fast at the table.

Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

1 packet taco seasoning mix

¼ cup water

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

½ cup sour cream (optional)

½ cup salsa

¼ cup chopped green onions

¼ cup chopped cilantro

¼ cup sliced jalapeños (optional)

½ cup diced tomatoes

Directions

I preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

I toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer.

I bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping once, until the potatoes are golden and crispy.

While the potatoes are baking, I cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned, then drain the fat.

I stir in the taco seasoning and water, letting it simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

I remove the potatoes from the oven and top them with the beef mixture.

I sprinkle cheese on top and return the dish to the oven for 5–7 more minutes, until the cheese melts and bubbles.

I finish by adding sour cream, salsa, green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 45 minutes to cook, for a total of 55 minutes. Each serving is approximately 480 kcal.

Variations

Sometimes I swap the ground beef for ground turkey or even a plant-based crumble for a vegetarian option. I’ve also tried different cheeses like Monterey Jack or a spicy pepper jack for extra flavor. For a lower-carb version, I’ve even replaced the potatoes with roasted cauliflower florets.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I use the oven or an air fryer to keep the potatoes crispy. The microwave works too, but it softens the texture a bit.

FAQs

What kind of potatoes work best for this recipe?

I prefer russet potatoes because they get really crispy when roasted, but Yukon Golds also work well for a creamier texture.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, I sometimes roast the potatoes and cook the beef in advance. I just reassemble and bake when I’m ready to serve.

How can I make this spicier?

I like to add hot sauce, extra jalapeños, or a spicier cheese blend. You can also mix some cayenne pepper into the taco meat.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as the taco seasoning is gluten-free, the rest of the ingredients naturally are. I always double-check the packaging to be sure.

Can I freeze this recipe?

I don’t recommend freezing after assembly, as the potatoes can get mushy. But I’ve frozen the cooked beef separately and added it to fresh potatoes later.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Potatoes are one of those versatile comfort foods I keep coming back to. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun game night snack, this dish hits all the right notes: crispy, cheesy, flavorful, and satisfying. With a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a crowd-pleaser that everyone enjoys.

Recipe:

Cheesy Taco Potatoes

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Author: Cheryl
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a hearty and savory dish combining crispy roasted potatoes with taco-seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings. Perfect for a comforting dinner or a fun party snack.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
Bake for 30–35 minutes, flipping once, until golden and crispy.
While baking, cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.
Remove potatoes from oven and top with the beef mixture.
Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and return to oven for 5–7 minutes until cheese melts.
Top with sour cream, salsa, green onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and diced tomatoes before serving.