Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe
Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a flavorful and hearty dish combining crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with smoky spices, topped with savory taco-seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese. Finished with a dollop of sour cream and fresh green onions or cilantro, this easy, family-friendly recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
- Author: Emma
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Potatoes and Seasoning
- 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
Taco Meat
- 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
- Prepare the potatoes: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the cubed potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Spread the potatoes in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
- Roast the potatoes: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast the potatoes for 25–30 minutes, flipping them halfway through the cooking time to ensure they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Cook the taco meat: While the potatoes are roasting, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat. Stir in the taco seasoning packet and water, then simmer the mixture for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
- Assemble the dish: After the potatoes have finished roasting, transfer them to a large oven-safe skillet or casserole dish. Evenly spread the seasoned taco meat over the roasted potatoes.
- Melt the cheese: Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese (or cheddar and Monterey Jack mix) evenly over the meat and potato layer. Return the assembled dish to the oven for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.
- Serve and garnish: Remove the dish from the oven and top with sour cream, chopped green onions or cilantro, and any optional extras like diced tomatoes, jalapeños, or avocado slices. Serve immediately while warm and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra crispiness, soak the cubed potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and roasting, then pat dry thoroughly.
- Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
- Adjust seasoning and spice levels to taste by adding more chili powder or jalapeños.
- Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture and more complex flavor.
- This dish pairs well with a side of fresh salad or guacamole for a complete meal.
Keywords: cheesy taco potatoes, taco recipe, roasted potatoes, ground beef recipe, comfort food, easy dinner, Mexican-inspired