Loaded Beef Taco Stuffed Potatoes are a fun twist on two classic favorites rolled into one hearty dish. You get tender baked potatoes packed with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and a dollop of cool sour cream. The mix of warm, soft potato with all those fresh taco toppings makes every bite a delicious surprise.
I love making these for a quick weeknight dinner when I want something filling but still easy to pull together. The great thing is you can customize the toppings however you like—maybe add some jalapeños for a little kick or some avocado slices for extra creaminess. I find that letting everyone build their own loaded potato adds a fun, casual vibe to the meal.
These potatoes are perfect served with a simple side salad or some crunchy tortilla chips to scoop up any extras. Whenever I make Loaded Beef Taco Stuffed Potatoes, it always feels like a mini taco party at home, and everyone enjoys combining their favorite taco flavors with the comfort of a baked potato. It’s a sure way to get smiles all around the table!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Baking Potatoes: Russet potatoes are the best choice here because their fluffy inside pairs perfectly with toppings. If you want a quicker bake, try sweet potatoes for a sweeter taste and softer texture.
Ground Beef: Ground beef adds great flavor and protein. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, or use a plant-based meat substitute to keep this recipe vegetarian-friendly.
Taco Seasoning: Using a store-bought packet is super convenient, but homemade taco seasoning lets you control salt and spice levels. Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a simple version.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts well and adds nice flavor. If you prefer a milder cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella work too. For dairy-free, use shredded vegan cheese blends.
Sour Cream and Fresh Toppings: Sour cream adds creaminess and cools down the spices. Greek yogurt works well as a healthier substitute. Fresh tomatoes and green onions add a nice crunch and freshness to balance the rich beef and cheese.
How Do You Get Perfectly Fluffy Baked Potatoes for Stuffing?
The secret is to bake the potatoes long enough so they’re soft inside but still have a sturdy skin to hold the toppings.
- Start by scrubbing the potatoes and poking holes with a fork; this lets steam escape while baking.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) directly on the oven rack for about 45-60 minutes. Baking on the rack gives you crisp skin all around.
- Test doneness by poking with a fork; it should slide in easily without resistance.
- Once baked, slice and fluff the inside with a fork to loosen the potato, making it easier to spoon in the beef and toppings.
Don’t rush this step! Well-cooked potatoes create the perfect base to hold all the taco flavors without getting mushy or falling apart.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – perfect for roasting potatoes evenly without sticking.
- Skillet or frying pan – to cook the ground beef and onions smoothly.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for dicing tomatoes and slicing green onions easily.
- Fork – to poke potatoes before baking and fluff the insides before stuffing.
- Spoon – for scooping the beef mixture and spreading toppings onto the potatoes.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a lighter, leaner option.
- Add black beans or corn to the beef mix for extra texture and nutrition.
- Top with diced avocado or guacamole instead of or alongside sour cream for creaminess.
- Mix in some chopped jalapeños or drizzle hot sauce for a spicy kick.
How to Make Loaded Beef Taco Stuffed Potatoes
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Potatoes:
- 4 large baking potatoes (Russet work well)
For the Beef Taco Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning blend
- ¼ cup water
For the Toppings:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- ½ cup sliced green onions (scallions)
- ½ cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 1 hour from start to finish. The main time is spent baking the potatoes for 45-60 minutes until tender. While they bake, you’ll prepare the beef filling in about 15 minutes. Then, assemble and enjoy right away for a warm, tasty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Bake the Potatoes:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the potatoes clean and pat them dry. Use a fork to prick each potato a few times — this helps steam escape during baking. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet. Bake for 45-60 minutes until a fork easily pierces through the potato, showing they’re tender inside.
2. Prepare the Beef Taco Filling:
While the potatoes bake, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook 30 seconds more until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spatula. Cook for 6-8 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Mix in the taco seasoning and water, then simmer the beef for 5 minutes until well-coated with seasoning and thickened slightly. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes:
When the potatoes are done baking, carefully slice each one in half lengthwise. Use a fork to fluff and loosen the inside. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef over each potato half. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top so it melts over the warm filling.
Finish by adding diced tomatoes, a dollop of sour cream, and a sprinkle of sliced green onions. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy your delicious loaded beef taco stuffed potatoes!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Beef for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator overnight before cooking. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to brown the beef.
Can I Bake the Potatoes in the Microwave to Save Time?
Absolutely! Microwave the potatoes on high for 8-12 minutes, turning halfway through. They won’t have the same crispy skin as oven-baked but will be soft inside and ready faster.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Keep any leftover stuffed potatoes in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh toppings after reheating to keep them crisp.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add jalapeños, corn, black beans, avocado, or your favorite salsa to switch up the flavors and suit your taste preferences.
