Loaded Taco Baked Potatoes
This loaded taco potato recipe transforms ordinary baked potatoes into a Mexican-inspired feast that’s perfect for weeknight dinners when you need something satisfying and simple. Fluffy baked potatoes are generously loaded with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar cheese, sour cream, green onions, and diced tomatoes creating the ultimate combination of comforting flavors and textures. The combination of crispy potato skins with fluffy interiors creates the ideal base for savory taco meat and all your favorite fresh toppings that everyone can customize to their liking.
I created this recipe during a particularly busy week when I needed something that would satisfy my kids’ taco cravings but didn’t require all the fuss of traditional taco night setup. Now it’s requested at least twice a month in our house, and even my pickiest eater happily devours these loaded potatoes without complaints about trying something new.
Preparation Time 10 min
Cooking Time 55 min
Overall Time 65 min
Ingredients
Base ingredients
1 pound lean ground beef
4-6 medium Russet potatoes
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
½ cup water
Delicious toppings
1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup green onions, chopped
½ cup fresh tomatoes, diced
Steps
Give your potatoes a good wash and scrub, then pierce them all over with a fork to prevent bursting. Pop them in a 400°F oven for 45-50 minutes until they’re fork-tender and the skin gives slightly when pressed.
While your potatoes are baking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until it’s beautifully browned and no longer pink. Drain off any excess grease that accumulates.
Stir in your taco seasoning and water, mixing everything together well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens up and all those amazing flavors meld together.
Once your potatoes are done, carefully slice them open lengthwise and fluff up the insides with a fork to create the perfect base for all your delicious toppings.
Spoon that flavorful seasoned beef generously over each potato, then top with shredded cheese, dollops of sour cream, chopped green onions, and fresh diced tomatoes. Serve immediately while everything’s hot and the cheese is melty!
Tips
These loaded potatoes are like having the best of both worlds – hearty baked potatoes and all your favorite taco flavors in one amazing dish!
For extra fluffy potatoes, rub the skins with a little salt and olive oil before baking – this also makes the skins extra crispy and delicious.
Feel free to customize your toppings! Try adding black beans, jalapeños, avocado, cilantro, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
You can bake the potatoes ahead of time and reheat them in the microwave when ready to serve – perfect for meal prep!
For a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of beef, or load them up with just beans and veggies for a vegetarian option.
Required Tools
Large skillet
Fork for piercing potatoes
Sharp knife for slicing
Serving spoons
Allergy Information
Always check each ingredient for allergens, and consult a medical professional if unsure.
Contains dairy (cheddar cheese, sour cream)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
These details are shared for general guidance and don’t replace professional advice.
Calories: 425
Fats: 18 g
Carbohydrates: 42 g
Proteins: 24 g
