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Cheesy Taco Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mash-Up You’ll Crave Again and Again

Cheesy Taco Potatoes: The Ultimate Comfort Food Mash-Up You’ll Crave Again and Again

Cheesy Taco Potatoes are a fun, comforting twist on taco night. Crispy seasoned potatoes are topped with savory taco-spiced ground beef, melty cheese, and your favorite fresh toppings. This beginner-friendly recipe comes together quickly and is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or casual family meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 lb russet potatoes, peeled and small diced

  • 34 tbsp oil

  • 1½ tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp garlic powder

  • 1 tsp onion powder

  • 1 lb ground beef

  • 1 packet taco seasoning

  • Water (as directed on taco seasoning packet)

  • 8 oz Mexican shredded cheese

Optional Toppings

  • Pico de gallo

  • Guacamole

  • Sour cream

Instructions

  • Season the potatoes
    In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.

  • Air fry until crispy
    Air fry the potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 18–20 minutes, shaking the basket 2–3 times to ensure even crisping.

  • Cook the ground beef
    While the potatoes cook, brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Crumble as it cooks. Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and water according to the packet instructions. Simmer until thickened.

  • Assemble the dish
    Layer the crispy potatoes on a serving plate or in bowls. Top with seasoned ground beef and sprinkle generously with shredded cheese.

  • Add toppings & serve
    Finish with pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

  • No air fryer? Roast the potatoes in the oven at 425°F for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through.

  • Make it lighter: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef.

  • Extra crunch: Add shredded lettuce or crushed tortilla chips on top.

  • Spice level: Adjust heat with spicy taco seasoning or sliced jalapeños.