Indulge in Cheesy Taco Potatoes for a Quick, Delicious Meal!

Prepare to embark on a delicious journey with our Cheesy Taco Potatoes! This irresistible dish combines the comfort of crispy potatoes with the bold flavors of tacos, creating a mouthwatering masterpiece that’s sure to become a new family favorite. Get ready to indulge in the perfect marriage of crispy, cheesy, and taco-infused goodness.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Potatoes

To whip up these Cheesy Taco Potatoes, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and small diced
• 3 to 4 tbsp oil (vegetable or canola)
• 1 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• Water (as directed on taco seasoning packet)
• 8 oz bag Mexican shredded cheese
• Optional toppings: pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream

How to Make Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Prepare the Potatoes

Begin by peeling and dicing the russet potatoes into small, uniform half-inch pieces. Toss the diced potatoes with oil until every piece is well coated, then season them with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix thoroughly to ensure an even coating.

Air Fry to Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 400°F. Add the seasoned potatoes to the basket in a single layer, working in batches if necessary. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes, shaking the basket vigorously 2 to 3 times during the cooking process. Your potatoes are ready when they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside, with a fluffy interior.

Brown the Ground Beef

While the potatoes are cooking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up as it browns, for about 6 to 8 minutes until no pink remains. Drain any excess grease.

Season and Simmer

To the browned beef, add the taco seasoning packet and the water as specified on the package directions. Stir to combine, bring the mixture to a simmer, and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce and the beef to become well-coated with the seasoning.

Assemble and Serve

Now, it’s time to bring it all together! Layer the crispy potatoes on individual plates or a large serving platter. Top them generously with the seasoned ground beef, then sprinkle the Mexican shredded cheese over the hot beef. Finish off your Cheesy Taco Potatoes with your choice of optional toppings, such as pico de gallo, guacamole, or sour cream.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Cheesy Taco Potatoes

For the best results, use fresh, high-quality russet potatoes. The air fryer is key to achieving the perfect crispy exterior and fluffy interior, but you can also bake the potatoes in a conventional oven. When browning the ground beef, be sure to drain any excess grease to avoid a greasy final dish. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different taco seasonings or spice blends to customize the flavor to your liking.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Cheesy Taco Potatoes contains approximately 510 calories, 23g of fat, 39g of carbohydrates, and 35g of protein. To make this dish a little healthier, you can consider using lean ground turkey or ground chicken instead of beef, and opt for reduced-fat or low-fat cheese.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Cheesy Chicken Bacon Ranch Sandwich
• Tater Tot Sloppy Joe Skillet
• Slow Cooker Taco Casserole
• Cheesy Campfire Potatoes

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen potatoes for Cheesy Taco Potatoes?

Yes, you can use frozen potatoes for Cheesy Taco Potatoes. However, it’s essential to ensure that the frozen potatoes are cooked thoroughly before adding the taco toppings. Follow the cooking instructions on the bag for the best results. You may want to adjust the seasoning slightly, as frozen potatoes can sometimes have a different texture and moisture content compared to fresh potatoes.

How can I make Cheesy Taco Potatoes spicier?

To make Cheesy Taco Potatoes spicier, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the ground beef while browning it. You can also incorporate spicy taco seasoning or hot sauce into the mixture. For an extra kick, top the dish with a spicy salsa or add crushed red pepper flakes before serving.

What is the best way to store leftovers of Cheesy Taco Potatoes?

To store leftovers of Cheesy Taco Potatoes, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3-4 days. When reheating, use an oven or air fryer to maintain the crispiness of the potatoes. If using a microwave, cover the dish with a microwave-safe lid to prevent drying out.

Can I make Cheesy Taco Potatoes without an air fryer?

Absolutely! If you don’t have an air fryer, you can bake Cheesy Taco Potatoes in a conventional oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the prepared potatoes on a baking sheet, and bake for about 25-30 minutes or until they are golden and crispy. Be sure to toss them halfway through for even cooking. After baking, proceed with adding the taco toppings as outlined in your recipe.

Indulge in the Ultimate Cheesy Taco Potato Experience

With the perfect blend of crispy potatoes, savory taco seasoning, and melted cheese, Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a dish that’s sure to become a household favorite. Whether you’re hosting a Taco Tuesday feast or simply craving a comforting, flavor-packed meal, this recipe is a must-try. Get ready to dive in and savor every delicious bite!

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