Crispy-on-the-outside, fluffy-on-the-inside baked potatoes loaded with seasoned taco beef, melted cheese, sour cream, and fresh toppings. It’s taco night meets comfort food — hearty, customizable, and totally satisfying.
🍽️ Recipe Card
Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Dietary Tags: Gluten-Free | Comfort Food | Family-Friendly
🧾 Ingredients
Base Ingredients
1 lb lean ground beef
4–6 medium Russet potatoes
1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning
½ cup water
Toppings
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup chopped green onions
½ cup diced fresh tomatoes
👨🍳 Instructions
Bake the Potatoes
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Scrub and pierce potatoes with a fork.
Bake directly on the oven rack or on a tray for 45–50 minutes, or until fork-tender.
Cook the Taco Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown ground beef until fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes. Drain excess grease.
Stir in taco seasoning and ½ cup water, then simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Prepare Potatoes for Stuffing
Slice each baked potato open lengthwise. Fluff the inside with a fork to create a base for toppings.
Assemble & Serve
Spoon seasoned beef into each potato. Top with cheese, sour cream, green onions, and tomatoes. Serve hot and melty.
💡 Quick Tips & Notes
Rub potatoes with olive oil and kosher salt before baking for crispier skins and more flavor.
Want it spicy? Add sliced jalapeños or hot sauce.
Make it lighter with ground turkey or a vegetarian bean mix.
📸 Brief Introduction
If you’re craving something hearty and hands-off, these taco stuffed baked potatoes are a weeknight winner. The combo of seasoned taco meat with creamy baked potato is pure comfort — and with all those fresh toppings, it’s a meal that hits every note: savory, tangy, crunchy, and creamy.
👣 Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
🔥 1. Bake the Potatoes
Scrub and pierce your Russets, then bake them right on the oven rack for max airflow. No foil needed unless you want a steamed skin (we recommend crispy!).
Optional Tip: Brush potatoes with oil and sprinkle salt before baking.
🥩 2. Cook the Beef
Brown your ground beef and break it up into crumbles. Add taco seasoning and water. Simmer until thick and fragrant — this is where the taco magic happens.
🍽️ 3. Load Them Up
Fluff the potato centers with a fork so the toppings settle nicely. Add the beef first, then pile on cheese (it’ll melt), and finish with cold toppings like sour cream and fresh veggies.
🧂 Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
🧀 Cheese Options
Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds bite.
Try Monterey Jack, queso fresco, or a Mexican cheese blend for variation.
🥑 Topping Swaps
Add avocado, black olives, corn, or black beans
Swap sour cream for Greek yogurt
Drizzle with salsa, chipotle mayo, or ranch
🔁 Meat Alternatives
Ground turkey or chicken
Plant-based meat crumbles or lentils for a veggie version
🍽️ Serving Suggestions & Variations
🎉 How to Serve
As a fun weeknight dinner for the family
As a DIY bar at parties: guests choose their toppings
Pair with a light side salad or grilled corn
🔁 Variations
Loaded Taco Bar: Set out toppings like guac, pickled jalapeños, and crushed tortilla chips
Mini Version: Use small potatoes or sweet potatoes for appetizers or tapas-style servings
🧊 Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
🧺 Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Keep toppings separate if storing for meal prep.
🔥 Reheating
Oven: 350°F for 10–15 minutes
Microwave: 1–2 minutes, then add fresh toppings
⏳ Make Ahead
Bake potatoes in advance and store in fridge
Reheat and assemble with fresh taco meat and toppings for fast weeknight meals
🧮 Nutrition (Per Serving Estimate)
Calories: ~420 kcal
Protein: 23g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 4g
Allergens: Dairy
Gluten-Free Friendly (check taco seasoning ingredients)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I bake the potatoes in the microwave?
A: Yes! Microwave each potato for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through. Finish in the oven for crispy skins if desired.
Q: Can I freeze the beef mixture?
A: Absolutely — freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Defrost and reheat for quick toppings.
Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead?
A: Definitely! The sweetness pairs nicely with the taco spices and adds a nutritional boost.
🧡 Personal Note
This dish is one of my favorite ways to turn a baked potato into a full, satisfying meal. It’s endlessly adaptable, easy to prep ahead, and always a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re cooking for the week or feeding a crowd, taco stuffed baked potatoes are a flavorful win every time.