Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Crispy-skinned baked potatoes loaded with bold taco filling, melty cheese, and fresh toppings. Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes are the perfect fusion of comfort and flavor for a satisfying, customizable dinner.
- Author: Ava
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
- Russet Potatoes: 4 large – Starchy and fluffy, ideal for stuffing.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – Helps crisp the skins during baking.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon – Enhances flavor in the skins and interior.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon – Adds subtle warmth.
- Ground Beef or Cooked Lentils: 1 pound or 1½ cups – Hearty and flavorful filling base.
- Onion: 1 small, diced – Aromatic and savory.
- Taco Seasoning: 2 tablespoons – Classic zesty taco flavor.
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons – Deepens richness and adds umami.
- Water or Broth: ⅓ cup – Helps blend the taco mix into a saucy consistency.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup – Melts over the filling for gooey goodness.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: ½ cup – Cool, creamy topper.
- Shredded Lettuce: 1 cup – Adds refreshing crunch.
- Diced Tomatoes or Salsa: ½ cup – Bright, juicy topping.
- Fresh Cilantro: A handful, chopped – Brings a fresh, herbal finish.
- Preheat Your Equipment: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or foil.
- Combine Ingredients: Rub potatoes with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper. Prick each with a fork.
- Prepare Your Cooking Vessel: Bake potatoes for 45–50 minutes until fork-tender with crispy skins.
- Assemble the Dish: While baking, sauté onion for 5 minutes. Add beef or lentils, taco seasoning, tomato paste, and water. Simmer for 7–10 minutes.
- Cook to Perfection: Slice potatoes open and fluff interiors with a fork. Lightly season inside.
- Finishing Touches: Fill with taco mixture, top with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes or salsa, and sour cream.
- Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Sweet potatoes offer a delicious alternative with a hint of sweetness.
- Reheat potatoes in the oven to keep the skins crispy.
- Create a taco topping bar for a fun, interactive meal.
- Vegan? Use lentils, plant-based cheese, and dairy-free yogurt.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stuffed potato
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: taco stuffed baked potatoes, easy dinner, stuffed potatoes, taco night, gluten free