This Cheesy Taco Potatoes Bake combines tender potato chunks, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese for a one-pan, crowd-pleasing dinner. It’s easy to assemble, packed with flavor, and perfect for weeknight meals.
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (or leave skins on for extra texture)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or diced tomatoes
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional, for extra melty goodness)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions or cilantro for garnish
- Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, jalapeños
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly.
2. Cook Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned.
- Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare Potatoes:
- Boil diced potatoes in salted water for 5–7 minutes until slightly tender but not fully cooked. Drain well.
4. Assemble the Bake:
- In the prepared baking dish, layer half of the potatoes.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture over the potatoes.
- Top with the remaining potatoes.
- Pour tomato sauce over the top and sprinkle with shredded cheese.
5. Bake:
- Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until potatoes are fully cooked and cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve:
- Garnish with green onions, cilantro, or optional toppings. Serve hot.
Tips for the Best Cheesy Taco Potatoes Bake
- Even potato cooking: Par-boil potatoes so they cook fully in the oven without drying out.
- Cheese melt: Cover with foil for the first 15 minutes of baking, then remove foil for a golden cheese top.
- Add veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or black beans can add extra flavor and nutrition.
- Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.
Variations
- Spicy: Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
- Low-carb: Substitute potatoes with cauliflower florets.
- Cheesy overload: Mix in pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist.
- Vegetarian: Replace beef with seasoned black beans or lentils.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or salsa
- Pair with a side salad or steamed veggies for a balanced meal
- Great for family dinners, potlucks, or meal prep
This Cheesy Taco Potatoes Bake with Ground Beef is hearty, cheesy, and packed with taco flavors, making it a surefire comfort food hit for any night of the week. 🥔🌮🧀