Cheesy Taco Potatoes are the ultimate comfort food mash-up — crispy roasted potatoes tossed in zesty taco seasoning, smothered in melted cheese, and topped with your favorite taco fixings. This hearty, crowd-pleasing dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or game nights. It’s basically a taco, but with potatoes instead of tortillas — and that makes it next-level delicious!

Ingredients:

• 4 large russet potatoes, washed and diced into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of Mexican cheeses)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup sour cream or ranch (optional, for serving)
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare and Roast the Potatoes

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil. Spread the diced potatoes evenly on the tray.

Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil, then sprinkle with garlic powder, paprika, chili powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss everything until the potatoes are evenly coated. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crisp on the outside but tender on the inside.

Step 2: Cook the Taco Meat

While the potatoes are baking, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.

Stir in the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water. Let it simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the beef. Set aside once done.

Step 3: Combine Everything

Once the potatoes are crispy and cooked through, remove them from the oven but keep the oven on. Transfer the taco meat over the roasted potatoes on the same baking sheet, spreading evenly.

Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese all over the top. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5–7 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Top with diced tomatoes, green onions, sour cream, or your favorite taco toppings. For extra flavor, drizzle with ranch dressing or sprinkle with chopped cilantro.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Potatoes

• Don’t skip roasting: Roasting the potatoes gives them a crispy edge that pairs perfectly with the cheesy taco topping.
• Try other meats: You can substitute ground beef with turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles.
• Cheese matters: Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor — pre-shredded cheese often has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy taco seasoning for a kick!
• Meal prep friendly: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in an air fryer or oven to bring back the crispiness.

Serving Ideas

These Cheesy Taco Potatoes are incredibly versatile! You can serve them as:

• A main dish with a side salad or steamed veggies.
• A loaded appetizer for parties or movie nights.
• A fun taco-night alternative — just add a drizzle of salsa or guacamole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is one of those recipes that never disappoints. The flavor combo of crispy potatoes, seasoned meat, and gooey melted cheese is pure comfort. It’s also easy to customize — you can toss in corn, beans, jalapeños, or any toppings you love. It’s family-friendly, budget-friendly, and absolutely satisfying!

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes or use an air fryer for 5–6 minutes to re-crisp the potatoes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the potatoes soggy.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something cheesy, hearty, and full of taco flavor, this Cheesy Taco Potatoes recipe is a must-try. Every bite delivers the best of both worlds — crispy roasted potatoes and cheesy taco goodness. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a fun get-together with friends, this recipe will always steal the spotlight!

💬 Pro tip: Double the batch — they disappear faster than you think!