Description
Imagine the best of both worlds: fluffy baked potatoes and bold taco flavors all in one dish! These Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes are hearty, cheesy, and topped with all your favorite taco fixings. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game-day spreads, or family gatherings, this recipe is customizable, satisfying, and guaranteed to become a go-to comfort meal.
Who is this Recipe For?
This recipe is perfect for:
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Families who want a fun, filling twist on taco night.
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Potato lovers craving a hearty, flavor-packed dinner.
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Meal-preppers looking for easy, customizable options.
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Anyone who enjoys build-your-own style meals with plenty of toppings.
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Those who want a dish that works for meat-lovers, vegetarians, or light eaters with easy swaps.
Why It’s Great
✨ Combines two comfort food classics: tacos + baked potatoes.
✨ Customizable toppings for endless flavor combos.
✨ Budget-friendly, using simple pantry staples.
✨ Meal-prep friendly — bake potatoes ahead and reheat later.
✨ Can be made lighter or vegetarian with easy substitutions.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
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1 pound lean ground beef
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4–6 medium Russet potatoes
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1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
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½ cup water
Toppings
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1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
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½ cup sour cream
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¼ cup green onions, chopped
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½ cup fresh tomatoes, diced
Optional extras: avocado, jalapeños, cilantro, black beans, hot sauce, or salsa.
Kitchen Equipment Needed
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Large skillet
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Fork (for piercing potatoes)
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Sharp knife (for slicing)
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Serving spoons
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Baking sheet (optional for prepping potatoes)
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Bake the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub potatoes clean, pierce all over with a fork, and bake for 45–50 minutes until tender. -
Cook the Beef
While potatoes bake, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until browned, then drain any excess fat. -
Add Taco Flavor
Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened. -
Prepare the Potatoes
Once baked, slice potatoes lengthwise. Fluff insides with a fork to create space for toppings. -
Assemble the Loaded Potatoes
Spoon seasoned beef into each potato, then layer on cheese, sour cream, green onions, and tomatoes. -
Serve Hot
Enjoy immediately while cheese is melty and potatoes are warm.
Storage
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Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
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Freezer: Freeze potatoes without toppings for up to 1 month. Add fresh toppings after reheating.
FAQ
Q: Can I use a different protein?
Yes! Ground turkey, chicken, or even crumbled tofu make great alternatives.
Q: How do I make this vegetarian?
Swap beef for black beans, pinto beans, or grilled veggies.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Definitely! Bake potatoes in advance and reheat when ready to assemble.
Q: How can I make the skins crispy?
Rub potatoes with olive oil and salt before baking for extra crispy skins.
Conclusion
These Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes are the perfect way to elevate taco night into a hearty, customizable, and crowd-pleasing meal. With their fluffy potato base, savory taco filling, and fresh toppings, they’re satisfying, versatile, and full of flavor. Serve them for family dinners, game-day parties, or meal prep — they’re guaranteed to be a hit!
