Easy Taco-Stuffed Baked Potatoes Recipe

Imagine a delightful twist on two classic comfort foods, and you’ve got easy taco-stuffed baked potatoes. This recipe seamlessly combines the crispy goodness of a baked potato with the savory explosion of taco flavors. Ready in under an hour, it’s an irresistible dish that will make your weeknight dinners exciting and delicious without much hassle.

My family loves taco nights, but it was my grandmother who first introduced us to the fusion of tacos and baked potatoes. During one of her visits, we were out of tortillas, and she casually suggested using potatoes instead. Her spontaneity sparked a tradition, and ever since, this has been a go-to family favorite, especially during cooler months when warm comfort foods are most appreciated.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a game changer for several reasons:

• Quick Preparation: Perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.
• Flavor Fusion: Combines two comforting classics into one scrumptious and satisfying dish.
• Customization: It’s easy to adapt to your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Ingredients Notes

Let’s talk about what you’ll need to make this dish special:

• Potatoes: Russet potatoes work best for their size and fluffiness. You can also use sweet potatoes for a unique twist.
• Ground Beef: Opt for lean ground beef, but you can substitute with turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter option.
• Taco Seasoning: Store-bought is convenient, but homemade blends can be tailored to your taste.
• Cheese: Cheddar cheese is classic, but pepper jack adds a bit of spice if you prefer.
• Fresh Toppings: Think diced tomatoes, avocado, and cilantro to bring freshness to your tacos.

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean, pierce them with a fork, and bake for about 45 minutes until tender and crispy outside.

Step 2

While potatoes are baking, cook the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess fat, then add taco seasoning and a touch of water. Stir until well combined.

Step 3

Once the potatoes are baked, allow them to cool slightly. Carefully slice them open and fluff the insides with a fork.

Step 4

Fill the potato with the seasoned beef mixture and top generously with shredded cheese. Return to the oven for 5 minutes until the cheese melts.

Step 5

Garnish with your preferred toppings such as sour cream, diced tomatoes, and cilantro. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Storage Options

These stuffed potatoes are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For freezing, wrap each stuffed potato in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations & Substitutions

For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with black beans or lentils. You can also swap the cheese with a plant-based option for a vegan twist. To bring extra heat, throw in some diced jalapeños or use spicy salsa as a topping.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is perfect as a standalone meal for lunch or dinner. It’s also a great addition to a potluck or casual gathering. Pair them with a light salad or corn on the cob for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can pre-bake the potatoes up to two days in advance. Store them in the fridge and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes before adding the stuffing.

What types of meat can I use?
Aside from ground beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even a faux meat substitute. Each choice will bring a slightly different flavor profile, catering to different dietary requirements.

Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or onions to the meat mixture while cooking. This will not only enhance the taste but also increase the nutritional value of your meal.

Easy Taco-Stuffed Baked Potatoes Recipe

A fun twist on a classic baked potato, this taco-stuffed version is easy to make and is sure to satisfy your cravings.

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Prep Time: 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 1 hour hour

Total Time: 1 hour hour 20 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Calories: 120kcal

Ingredients

 

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Main Ingredients

• ▢ 4 large russet potatoes
• ▢ 1 pound ground beef or ground turkey
• ▢ 1 package taco seasoning about 1 ounce
• ▢ 0.5 cup water
• ▢ 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese grated
• ▢ 0.5 cup sour cream
• ▢ 0.5 cup salsa
• ▢ 0.25 cup green onions chopped
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil for brushing potatoes
• ▢ 0.5 teaspoon salt for baking potatoes

Instructions

Preparation Steps

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and dry them with a towel. Prick each potato several times with a fork.
• Rub the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until tender.
• While the potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
• Add taco seasoning and water to the beef. Bring to a simmer and cook until the water has evaporated.
• When potatoes are done, remove them from the oven. Let them cool slightly, then slice each potato lengthwise and fluff with a fork.
• Top each potato with taco meat, cheese, sour cream, salsa, and green onions. Serve immediately.

Notes

Feel free to add toppings such as avocado, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes for extra flavor.