Why You’ll Love Loaded Potato Taco Bowl Recipe
This recipe combines the crispy texture of oven-roasted potatoes with bold, savory taco flavors for a satisfying and balanced meal. It’s easy to customize with your favorite toppings, making it ideal for families with different tastes. The simple ingredients are budget-friendly and easy to find, and the entire dish comes together in under an hour. Plus, it’s great for meal prep since the components can be stored separately and assembled when needed.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
2 pounds russet potatoes, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
1 pound ground beef
2 tablespoons taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1 cup diced tomatoes
1/4 cup sliced green onions
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
Salsa or taco sauce, for serving
Directions
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
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In a large bowl, toss the diced potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
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Spread the potatoes in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy on the outside and tender inside.
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While the potatoes are roasting, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease.
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Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, until the mixture thickens and becomes well combined.
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To assemble, divide the roasted potatoes evenly among serving bowls.
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Spoon the seasoned beef over the potatoes.
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Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, diced tomatoes, green onions, and black olives if desired.
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Finish with a drizzle of salsa or taco sauce and serve immediately.
Servings and timing
Servings: 4 generous bowls
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Variations
For a lighter option, substitute ground turkey or ground chicken for the beef.
Make it vegetarian by using seasoned black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based ground alternative.
Add extra vegetables such as sautéed bell peppers, corn, or shredded lettuce for more texture and freshness.
For a spicier kick, mix diced jalapeños into the beef or use a hot taco seasoning blend.
Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet and nutrient-rich twist.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover potatoes and seasoned beef separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep fresh toppings like sour cream and tomatoes in separate containers to maintain freshness.
To reheat, warm the beef in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Reheat the potatoes in the oven or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes to help restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving the potatoes if possible, as they may become soft.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potatoes and beef in advance and store them separately. Assemble the bowls just before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
The seasoned beef freezes well for up to 2 months. The potatoes can be frozen, but they may lose some crispness when reheated.
What type of potatoes work best?
Russet potatoes are ideal because they crisp up nicely, but Yukon Gold potatoes also work well.
How can I make this dish lower in calories?
Use lean ground beef or ground turkey, reduce the cheese, and swap sour cream for plain Greek yogurt.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be, as long as your taco seasoning is certified gluten-free.
Can I cook the potatoes in an air fryer?
Yes, cook them at 400°F (200°C) for about 15–20 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
What cheese melts best for this bowl?
Cheddar and Mexican blend cheeses melt smoothly and complement the taco flavors.
Can I add rice to this bowl?
Yes, adding a layer of rice can make the bowl even more filling and stretch the servings further.
How do I keep the potatoes crispy?
Spread them in a single layer while roasting and avoid overcrowding the pan. Reheat in the oven instead of the microwave.
What other toppings can I use?
Try guacamole, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, pickled onions, or hot sauce for extra flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Loaded Potato Taco Bowl is a satisfying, customizable meal that brings together crispy roasted potatoes and bold taco flavors in one hearty dish. With simple ingredients and flexible variations, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Once you try this creative twist on taco night, it’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen.
