Taco Taters: The Ultimate Loaded Potato Recipe

Get ready for a flavor explosion with these incredible Taco Taters! This recipe combines the comfort of baked potatoes with the zesty, savory flavors of tacos, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and fun to eat. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a party appetizer, or even a game-day snack, Taco Taters are incredibly versatile and easy to customize to your liking. They are essentially loaded baked potatoes but instead of the usual cheese and bacon, they feature seasoned ground beef, salsa, sour cream, and all your favorite taco toppings. Think of it as a taco in potato form – what’s not to love?

This recipe provides detailed, step-by-step instructions for making perfectly baked potatoes, delicious seasoned ground beef, and assembling the ultimate taco taters. We’ll also provide suggestions for different topping combinations and variations to suit every palate. So, grab your potatoes and let’s get cooking!

## Why You’ll Love This Taco Taters Recipe

* **Easy to Make:** This recipe is surprisingly simple and straightforward, even for beginner cooks.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the toppings and seasonings to your preferences.
* **Crowd-Pleaser:** A guaranteed hit at parties, potlucks, and family gatherings.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses affordable ingredients that are readily available.
* **Comfort Food with a Twist:** Combines the familiar comfort of baked potatoes with the exciting flavors of tacos.
* **Great for Leftovers:** The seasoned ground beef and potatoes can be stored separately and used in other meals.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make these delectable Taco Taters:

**For the Baked Potatoes:**

* **Russet Potatoes:** The classic choice for baked potatoes, known for their fluffy interior and sturdy skin. Look for large, evenly shaped potatoes. About 4 large potatoes will make 8 generous servings.
* **Olive Oil:** Helps the skin crisp up and adds a subtle flavor. You can also use vegetable oil or canola oil.
* **Salt:** Essential for seasoning the potato skin.
* **Black Pepper:** Adds a touch of spice and depth of flavor.

**For the Taco Meat:**

* **Ground Beef:** Use lean ground beef (80/20 or 85/15) to minimize grease. You can also substitute ground turkey or ground chicken.
* **Taco Seasoning:** Use a pre-made taco seasoning packet or make your own (recipe below).
* **Onion:** Adds flavor and texture to the meat mixture. Yellow or white onions work well.
* **Garlic:** Provides a pungent and aromatic flavor.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Adds moisture and a touch of acidity. You can use canned diced tomatoes or fresh, chopped tomatoes.
* **Water:** Helps to create a saucier consistency.

**For the Toppings (Get Creative!):**

* **Shredded Cheese:** Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican blend are all great choices.
* **Sour Cream:** Adds a creamy and tangy element. You can also use Greek yogurt.
* **Salsa:** Choose your favorite salsa – mild, medium, or hot.
* **Guacamole:** A must-have for many taco lovers! You can buy pre-made guacamole or make your own.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** Adds freshness and color.
* **Shredded Lettuce:** Provides a crisp and refreshing element.
* **Black Olives:** Adds a salty and briny flavor.
* **Green Onions:** Adds a mild onion flavor and a pop of color.
* **Jalapeños:** For those who like a little heat!
* **Cilantro:** Adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor.
* **Corn:** Adds sweetness and texture. Canned or frozen corn works well.
* **Beans:** Black beans or refried beans are great additions.
* **Hot Sauce:** For an extra kick!
* **Lime Wedges:** Squeeze lime juice over your taco taters for a burst of citrus.

**Homemade Taco Seasoning (Optional):**

If you prefer to make your own taco seasoning, here’s a simple recipe:

* 2 tablespoons chili powder
* 1 tablespoon ground cumin
* 1 teaspoon paprika
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon salt
* 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

## Equipment You’ll Need

* **Baking Sheet:** For baking the potatoes.
* **Fork:** For piercing the potatoes.
* **Large Skillet:** For cooking the ground beef.
* **Spoon or Spatula:** For stirring the ground beef.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons:** For measuring ingredients.
* **Oven:** For baking the potatoes.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Taco Taters:

**Part 1: Baking the Potatoes**

1. **Preheat the Oven:** Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature allows the potatoes to cook through evenly while developing a crispy skin.
2. **Prepare the Potatoes:** Wash the russet potatoes thoroughly under cold running water. Use a scrub brush to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the potatoes dry with paper towels. This step is crucial for achieving crispy skin.
3. **Pierce the Potatoes:** Use a fork to pierce each potato several times. This allows steam to escape during baking, preventing the potatoes from exploding and promoting even cooking.
4. **Oil and Season the Potatoes:** Drizzle each potato with olive oil (approximately 1 teaspoon per potato). Rub the oil all over the skin, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Sprinkle generously with salt and black pepper. The oil helps the skin crisp up, while the salt and pepper add flavor.
5. **Bake the Potatoes:** Place the prepared potatoes directly on the baking sheet (no need to wrap them in foil). Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork and feel soft when squeezed gently. The baking time will vary depending on the size of the potatoes. Smaller potatoes may take less time, while larger potatoes may require more time.
6. **Check for Doneness:** To check if the potatoes are done, insert a fork into the center. If the fork slides in easily with little resistance, the potatoes are ready. You can also gently squeeze the potato; it should feel soft and yielding.

**Part 2: Preparing the Taco Meat**

1. **Brown the Ground Beef:** In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up with a spoon or spatula as it cooks. Cook until the beef is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
2. **Drain the Grease:** Once the ground beef is browned, drain off any excess grease. This helps to prevent the taco meat from becoming greasy and also reduces the overall fat content of the dish.
3. **Add Onion and Garlic:** Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the onion is softened and translucent, about 3-5 minutes. The onion and garlic add flavor and aroma to the taco meat.
4. **Season with Taco Seasoning:** Stir in the taco seasoning packet (or your homemade taco seasoning) and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and release their flavors. Make sure the taco seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the meat mixture.
5. **Add Water and Simmer:** Add water to the skillet and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together and creates a more cohesive taco meat mixture.
6. **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the taco meat and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or taco seasoning to your preference.

**Part 3: Assembling the Taco Taters**

1. **Slice the Potatoes:** Carefully remove the baked potatoes from the oven. Use a sharp knife to slice each potato lengthwise, creating a pocket for the taco meat and toppings.
2. **Fluff the Potato:** Gently fluff the inside of each potato with a fork, being careful not to tear the skin. This creates a light and airy texture inside the potato.
3. **Load with Taco Meat:** Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned taco meat into each potato half.
4. **Add Toppings:** Now comes the fun part! Top the taco taters with your favorite taco toppings. Here are some suggestions:
* Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or Mexican blend)
* Sour cream or Greek yogurt
* Salsa (mild, medium, or hot)
* Guacamole
* Diced tomatoes
* Shredded lettuce
* Black olives
* Green onions
* Jalapeños
* Cilantro
* Corn
* Beans
* Hot sauce
* Lime wedges
5. **Serve Immediately:** Serve the Taco Taters immediately while they are hot and the cheese is melted. Garnish with a sprinkle of cilantro or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch.

## Tips for Perfect Taco Taters

* **Choose the Right Potatoes:** Russet potatoes are the best choice for baked potatoes due to their high starch content and fluffy texture. Look for potatoes that are firm, smooth, and free from blemishes.
* **Don’t Skip Piercing the Potatoes:** Piercing the potatoes allows steam to escape, preventing them from exploding and promoting even cooking. Use a fork to pierce each potato several times before baking.
* **Bake at the Right Temperature:** Baking the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) ensures that they cook through evenly while developing a crispy skin. Avoid baking at a lower temperature, as this can result in soggy potatoes.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet:** If you’re baking a large batch of potatoes, make sure to spread them out evenly on the baking sheet. Overcrowding can prevent the potatoes from cooking evenly.
* **Use Lean Ground Beef:** Using lean ground beef minimizes grease and creates a healthier taco meat mixture. Drain off any excess grease after browning the beef.
* **Don’t Be Afraid to Experiment with Toppings:** The beauty of Taco Taters is that they are incredibly customizable. Feel free to experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations to find your favorites.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a vegetarian ground beef substitute for a vegetarian version.
* **Add Some Heat:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the taco meat for an extra kick.
* **Use High Quality Toppings:** Opt for fresh, high-quality toppings whenever possible. Freshly shredded cheese, homemade guacamole, and locally sourced salsa will elevate the flavor of your Taco Taters.
* **Make Ahead:** The potatoes can be baked ahead of time and reheated. The taco meat can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Simply reheat both components and assemble the taco taters when you’re ready to serve.

## Variations and Customization

Here are some ideas to customize your Taco Taters and make them your own:

* **Spicy Taco Taters:** Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the taco meat. Top with jalapeños and a drizzle of sriracha.
* **Chicken Taco Taters:** Substitute ground beef with shredded chicken that has been cooked and seasoned with taco seasoning. You can use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
* **Vegetarian Taco Taters:** Replace the ground beef with lentils, black beans, or a vegetarian ground beef substitute. Add extra vegetables like corn, bell peppers, and zucchini.
* **Sweet Potato Taco Taters:** Use sweet potatoes instead of russet potatoes for a sweeter and more nutritious twist. The sweetness of the sweet potato pairs well with the savory taco flavors.
* **Loaded Nacho Taco Taters:** Crumble tortilla chips over the taco taters for added crunch and flavor. Drizzle with nacho cheese sauce for an extra indulgent treat.
* **Pizza Taco Taters:** Add pepperoni, mozzarella cheese, and pizza sauce to the taco taters for a fun and unexpected flavor combination.
* **Breakfast Taco Taters:** Top the baked potato with scrambled eggs, chorizo, cheese, and salsa for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.

## Serving Suggestions

Taco Taters are delicious on their own as a main course or as a side dish. Here are some serving suggestions:

* **Serve with a side salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a great complement to the richness of the taco taters.
* **Serve with corn on the cob:** Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is a classic side dish that pairs well with tacos.
* **Serve with refried beans:** A side of refried beans adds extra protein and fiber to the meal.
* **Serve with Mexican rice:** Mexican rice is a flavorful and colorful side dish that complements the flavors of the taco taters.
* **Serve as an appetizer:** Cut the baked potatoes into smaller pieces and top with taco meat and toppings for a fun and shareable appetizer.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

**Storage:**

* **Baked Potatoes:** Store leftover baked potatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Taco Meat:** Store leftover taco meat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Toppings:** Store leftover toppings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa should be stored in their original containers if possible.

**Reheating:**

* **Baked Potatoes:** Reheat the baked potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave, but they may become slightly soggy.
* **Taco Meat:** Reheat the taco meat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave.

**Assembling Reheated Taco Taters:**

1. Slice the reheated baked potatoes lengthwise and fluff the inside with a fork.
2. Spoon the reheated taco meat into the potatoes.
3. Add your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

## Taco Taters Recipe Card

**Yields:** 4 servings
**Prep time:** 20 minutes
**Cook time:** 1 hour 15 minutes

**Ingredients:**

* 4 large russet potatoes
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound ground beef
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 packet taco seasoning
* 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
* 1/2 cup water
* Toppings of your choice (shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, guacamole, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, black olives, green onions, jalapeños, cilantro, corn, beans, hot sauce, lime wedges)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wash and scrub potatoes. Pierce each potato several times with a fork.
2. Rub potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Bake for 45-60 minutes, or until potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
4. While potatoes are baking, brown ground beef in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Drain off any excess grease.
5. Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
6. Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
7. Add water and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Remove potatoes from oven and slice each potato lengthwise.
9. Fluff the inside of each potato with a fork.
10. Spoon taco meat into each potato half.
11. Top with your favorite toppings and serve immediately.

## Conclusion

Taco Taters are a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With their combination of comforting baked potatoes and zesty taco flavors, they’re sure to be a hit with everyone. So, gather your ingredients, follow these simple instructions, and get ready to enjoy the ultimate loaded potato experience! Don’t forget to experiment with different toppings and variations to create your own signature Taco Taters. Happy cooking!