Name: Cheesy Taco Potatoes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and small diced (900 g); 3–4 tablespoons oil (45–60 mL); 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (7 g); 1/2 teaspoon pepper (1 g); 1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g); 1 teaspoon onion powder (3 g); 1 pound ground beef (450 g); 1 packet taco seasoning; Water, as directed on taco seasoning packet; 8 ounce bag Mexican shredded cheese (225 g); Optional toppings: pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream

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Introduction

Cheesy Taco Potatoes combine crispy air-fried potatoes with savory seasoned ground beef and melted Mexican cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal. This dish is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual gathering.

A white plate holds a layered dish starting with golden-brown roasted potato cubes at the bottom, topped with a thick layer of cooked ground beef in a deep brown color. Over the beef, there is a mix of shredded yellow and white cheese scattered evenly. Above the cheese, finely chopped red tomatoes and white onions form a fresh, colorful layer. The dish is finished with a dollop of white sour cream placed on top, sprinkled with small green herb pieces. In the background, two small white ramekins hold red salsa and green guacamole, all set on a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and small diced (900 g)
3–4 tablespoons oil (45–60 mL)
1 1/2 teaspoons salt (7 g)
1/2 teaspoon pepper (1 g)
1 teaspoon garlic powder (3 g)
1 teaspoon onion powder (3 g)
1 pound ground beef (450 g)
1 packet taco seasoning
Water, as directed on taco seasoning packet
8 ounce bag Mexican shredded cheese (225 g)
Optional toppings: pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream

Instructions

Step 1: Toss diced russet potatoes with oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.
Step 2: Air fry seasoned potatoes at 400°F (200°C) for 18-20 minutes, shaking the basket 2-3 times during cooking for even crisping.
Step 3: Brown crumbled ground beef in a skillet. Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and water as directed on the packet. Simmer according to package directions.
Step 4: Layer cooked potatoes on a serving plate, top with seasoned beef, sprinkle with shredded cheese, and garnish with desired toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, or sour cream.

Tips & Variations

Peel potatoes thoroughly to avoid bitter skins and ensure a smooth texture.
Pat the ground beef dry before browning to achieve a better crust and richer flavor.
For best melting, layer shredded cheese between the hot potatoes and beef so it melts evenly.
Use olive oil, avocado oil, or your preferred cooking oil for the potatoes depending on flavor preference.
Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based crumbles for a lighter or vegetarian version.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warm, adding a sprinkle of cheese if desired to refresh the melted texture.

How to Serve

The dish is a loaded plate of diced golden brown roasted potatoes at the bottom layer, topped with a generous layer of cooked brown ground meat. Above the meat is a colorful mix of shredded yellow and white cheese, followed by a fresh layer of finely chopped red tomatoes and white onions. The top is crowned with a dollop of white sour cream sprinkled with chopped green herbs. The plate is white, placed on a white marbled textured surface, with two small white ramekins in the background – one filled with red salsa and the other with green guacamole. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can roast the seasoned potatoes in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) on a baking sheet for about 25-30 minutes, turning halfway through until they are crispy and golden.

What can I use instead of taco seasoning?

If you don’t have taco seasoning, mix 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon paprika, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon onion powder, 1/4 teaspoon salt, and a pinch of cayenne pepper to taste as a homemade alternative.