Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Baked Potatoes
01 -
4 medium yellow potatoes (or Russet potatoes)
02 -
Olive oil for coating
03 -
Coarse salt and freshly cracked black pepper
→ Taco Meat
04 -
1 pound ground beef
05 -
1 small onion, diced
06 -
1 ounce packet taco seasoning
07 -
1/2 cup water
→ Cheese Sauce
08 -
8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
09 -
4 ounces shredded pepper jack cheese
10 -
4 ounces can diced green chilies
11 -
5 ounces can evaporated milk
→ Fresh Toppings
12 -
Shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
13 -
Fresh tomatoes, diced
14 -
Sliced jalapeños
15 -
Sour cream
16 -
Fresh cilantro, chopped
17 -
Hot sauce
# Instructions:
01 -
Heat oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with foil. Wash the potatoes thoroughly and poke holes all over with a fork. Rub with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper.
02 -
Place the seasoned potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 45 minutes until they start to feel tender when gently squeezed.
03 -
While potatoes bake, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and diced onion, cooking until the beef is completely browned and onion is softened. Drain excess grease.
04 -
Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing well. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5-10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and flavors meld together.
05 -
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the cubed Velveeta, pepper jack cheese, diced chilies, and evaporated milk. Stir constantly until melted and smooth.
06 -
Switch oven to low broil and bake potatoes for an additional 15 minutes to get the skin extra crispy and the inside fluffy.
07 -
Cut each potato open lengthwise and fluff the flesh with a fork. Ladle cheese sauce over each potato, top with taco meat, and finish with your favorite fresh toppings. Serve immediately while hot.
# Notes:
01 -
This recipe transforms a simple baked potato into a complete taco-inspired meal that's both filling and flavorful.
02 -
Yellow potatoes work great, but Russets give you the fluffiest interior if you prefer that texture.
03 -
The cheese sauce can be made ahead and reheated gently when ready to serve.
04 -
Feel free to customize with your favorite taco toppings like avocado, lettuce, or black beans.