Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes

Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes are the perfect fusion of comfort food and taco night. These baked potatoes are stuffed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and topped with fresh, vibrant ingredients for a satisfying and irresistible dish. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight meal or a fun dish to share with friends and family, these loaded potatoes hit the spot every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes bring together the best of both worlds—creamy, fluffy baked potatoes and the bold, savory flavors of tacos. The seasoned ground beef is rich and flavorful, while the melted cheddar cheese adds that perfect creamy texture. Toppings like sour cream, green onions, and diced tomatoes provide a fresh, zesty contrast to the rich filling. Plus, this recipe is super simple and requires minimal ingredients, making it an ideal meal for busy nights or casual get-togethers.

Ingredients

For the Main Ingredients:

1 pound lean ground beef
4 to 6 medium Russet potatoes
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning
½ cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped green onions
½ cup diced tomatoes

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

Directions

1. Wash and scrub the potatoes, then pierce them with a fork. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 45-50 minutes, or until fork-tender.

2. While the potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess grease.

3. Stir in the taco seasoning and ½ cup of water. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens.

4. Once the potatoes are cooked, slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork.

5. Spoon the seasoned beef mixture over the baked potatoes.

6. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, and diced tomatoes.

7. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 60 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute for a delicious vegetarian option.

• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce on top for some extra heat.

• Cheese Lovers: Use a combination of cheeses like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even crumbled queso fresco for a cheesy twist.

• Toppings: Customize your toppings with items like avocado slices, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for added freshness.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftover Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Freezing: You can freeze the beef mixture separately for up to 2 months. Reheat and serve with fresh baked potatoes.

• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or place the potatoes back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes?

Yes, sweet potatoes work wonderfully in this recipe, adding a slightly sweeter flavor that complements the savory toppings.

2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the beef mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, bake the potatoes and assemble the dish.

3. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for a leaner version of this dish. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly before adding the taco seasoning.

4. How do I know when the potatoes are fully cooked?

The potatoes are fully cooked when they are fork-tender. You should be able to easily pierce the potato with a fork.

5. Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even a Mexican cheese blend.

6. How do I make the potatoes crispier?

If you want a crispier skin, brush the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt before baking.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use a gluten-free taco seasoning mix.

8. Can I make this with leftover meat?

Yes, leftover taco meat works perfectly for this recipe! Just reheat it before spooning it over the baked potatoes.

9. How do I prevent the potatoes from getting too dry?

Be sure to bake the potatoes until they are fork-tender, but avoid overbaking them. You can also add a little extra sour cream or cheese on top to keep them moist.

10. Can I add other vegetables to the beef mixture?

Yes, feel free to add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even corn to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes are a fun and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos in a new, comforting form. With seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, they’re an easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize with your favorite toppings and enjoy this savory dish that brings the best of comfort food and taco night together!

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