🥔 Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes 🌮🧀
These Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes are a fun twist on a classic dish—crispy baked potatoes loaded with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh toppings. The ultimate comfort food with a taco flair!
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4-6):
For the Potatoes:
4 to 6 medium Russet potatoes, scrubbed clean 🥔
For the Taco Filling:
1 pound lean ground beef 🥩
1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning 🌮
1/2 cup water 💧
For the Toppings:
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 🧀
1/2 cup sour cream 🍦
1/4 cup chopped green onions 🌱
1/2 cup diced tomatoes 🍅
📝 Instructions:
1. Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prep the Potatoes: Poke a few holes in each Russet potato with a fork to allow steam to escape during baking. This will help the potatoes bake evenly and prevent them from bursting.
Bake the Potatoes: Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork. You can also test by squeezing gently—if the potato gives, it’s ready. Once done, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly.
2. Prepare the Taco Filling:
Brown the Ground Beef: While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it’s browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
Add Seasoning and Simmer: Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Stir to combine and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the seasoning is fully incorporated. Set the skillet aside once done.
3. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
Cut the Potatoes: Once the baked potatoes are cool enough to handle, cut a slit down the center of each one and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
Add the Taco Filling: Spoon the prepared taco meat into the center of each potato, filling them generously.
Top with Cheese: Sprinkle each loaded potato with shredded cheddar cheese. If you prefer a melty cheese topping, pop the loaded potatoes back into the oven for 5-7 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
4. Add the Toppings:
Finish with Toppings: Once the cheese has melted, remove the potatoes from the oven. Top each one with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped green onions, and a few diced tomatoes for freshness.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve Hot: Serve the taco loaded baked potatoes immediately while they’re warm and the cheese is melted. Enjoy them as a hearty dinner, or pair them with a side of Mexican rice or salad for a complete meal.
🍴 Serving Suggestions:
Add Extra Toppings: Feel free to add more toppings like jalapeños, guacamole, or salsa for extra flavor and spice.
Make It Spicy: For a spicier kick, add some hot sauce or diced green chilies into the taco filling.
Serve with a Side Salad: A fresh side salad with avocado and a tangy lime dressing would complement the flavors nicely.
🌟 Why You’ll Love Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes:
A Meal in One: This dish combines everything you love about tacos and baked potatoes into one delicious, hearty meal.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings to fit your family’s preferences. Add more veggies, swap the cheese, or top with your favorite salsa.
Quick and Easy: Although they bake for a while, the prep time is minimal, and the result is a satisfying dinner that’s sure to please everyone.
🧑🍳 Tips for Success:
Use a Potato Scrubber: Scrub your potatoes well to remove any dirt and prevent the skins from being gritty after baking.
Cook the Beef in Batches: If using a large skillet, you may want to cook the beef in batches to ensure it browns evenly and doesn’t steam.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the taco filling ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before adding it to the potatoes.
🍽️ Final Thoughts:
These Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes are a fun, filling, and flavorful meal that’s sure to satisfy your taco cravings in a new and exciting way. The combination of crispy baked potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and creamy toppings is a winner for any night of the week.
Give these a try for a twist on your regular taco night—you won’t regret it! 😋