Cheesy Taco Potatoes

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet.
  3. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
  4. While the potatoes roast, brown ground beef in a skillet over medium-high heat. Drain any excess fat.
  5. Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 3–4 minutes until the mixture thickens.
  6. Once potatoes are crispy, transfer them to a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
  7. Top with taco beef and sprinkle evenly with shredded cheese.
  8. Return to oven and bake for 5–7 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly.
  9. Remove from oven and top with sour cream, green onions, and any optional toppings. Serve hot.

Variations:

  • Vegetarian Version: Swap ground beef for black beans, lentils, or meatless crumbles.
  • Loaded Nacho Style: Add black olives, corn, or a drizzle of queso blanco.
  • Spicy Southwest: Use pepper jack cheese and mix chopped chipotle peppers into the beef.
  • Breakfast Edition: Top with a fried egg and serve as a hearty brunch dish.

Tips:

  • Make sure the potatoes are diced uniformly for even roasting and crisping.
  • Line your baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
  • You can prepare the taco meat ahead of time and store it in the fridge for faster assembly later.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.

This dish is bold, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable — perfect for feeding a hungry crowd or just treating yourself to an indulgent night in.