Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet is the ultimate comfort dish that brings together crispy potatoes, zesty taco seasoning, and a gooey blend of melted cheese. Imagine digging into a warm, hearty skillet filled with tender potatoes, vibrant bell peppers, and savory ground turkey or beef, all topped with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and a dollop of creamy sour cream. This delightful one-pan wonder is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, making it a family favorite that’s sure to satisfy every craving. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
Table of Contents
Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet
Equipment
- 1 Large Skillet For cooking the potatoes and meat.
Ingredients Â
Base Ingredients
- 4 medium Potatoes Diced.
- 1 lb Ground turkey Can substitute with ground beef.
Seasoning
- 1 packet Taco seasoning Store-bought or homemade.
- 1 cup Cheddar cheese Shredded.
Additional Ingredients
- 1 can Black beans Drained and rinsed.
- 1 cup Bell peppers Chopped.
- 1 medium Onion Chopped.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced.
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil For sautéing.
- 2 tablespoons Green onions Chopped, for garnish.
- 1/2 cup Sour cream For topping.
- 1 medium Avocado Sliced, for topping.
InstructionsÂ
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
- Collect diced potatoes, ground beef or turkey, taco seasoning, shredded cheese, bell peppers, onions, and your favorite toppings.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
- In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook until golden and tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally!
Step 3: Brown the Meat
- Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
- Mix in chopped bell peppers and onions with the meat. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Season It Up
- Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture. Stir well to combine everything and let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Cheese It Up
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado. Dig in and enjoy your comforting Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet!
Video
Why You’ll Love This Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet
- It’s a one-pan wonder, making cleanup a breeze!
- Loaded with cheesy goodness that melts in your mouth.
- Customizable with your favorite toppings for a personal touch.
- Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.
- Kid-approved and sure to please the whole family!
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category: | Main Dish |
| Cuisine: | Mexican |
| Prep Time: | 15 minutes |
| Cook Time: | 30 minutes |
| Total Time: | 45 minutes |
| Dietary: | Vegetarian, Gluten-Free |
| Serves: | 4 |
| Best Served: | Hot, with toppings |
Ingredients For Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet
- Potatoes – a hearty base that adds texture and flavor.
- Ground turkey – a lean alternative to beef, perfect for a lighter dish.
- Taco seasoning – brings all the bold flavors of tacos to your skillet.
- Cheddar cheese – for that melty, cheesy goodness that ties everything together.
- Black beans – adds protein and a nice earthy flavor.
- Bell peppers – for a pop of color and crunch.
- Onion – enhances the overall flavor with its sweetness.
- Garlic – adds a fragrant kick to the dish.
- Olive oil – for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
- Green onions – for a fresh garnish and a mild onion flavor.
- Sour cream – a creamy topping that balances the spices.
- Avocado – adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Ingredients with measurements will be right under the article in the recipe card.
How to Make the Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet
Get ready to whip up a delicious Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet with these easy steps!
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Collect diced potatoes, ground beef or turkey, taco seasoning, shredded cheese, bell peppers, onions, and your favorite toppings.
Step 2: Cook the Potatoes
In a large skillet, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced potatoes and cook until golden and tender, about 10-15 minutes. Stir occasionally!
Step 3: Brown the Meat
Push the potatoes to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Mix in chopped bell peppers and onions with the meat. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Season It Up
Sprinkle taco seasoning over the mixture. Stir well to combine everything and let the flavors meld for a couple of minutes.
Step 6: Cheese It Up
Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the top. Cover the skillet and let it cook for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Top with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, or avocado. Dig in and enjoy your comforting Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet!
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
• Use Yukon Gold potatoes for a creamy texture that holds up well in the skillet.
• For extra flavor, season your ground meat with taco seasoning before cooking.
• Don’t skimp on the cheese—mix different types like cheddar and Monterey Jack for a melty delight.
• Top with fresh cilantro and avocado for a burst of freshness and color.
• Serve with tortilla chips on the side for a fun crunch!
How to Serve
- Top with fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- Pair with crunchy tortilla chips for added texture.
- Offer sliced jalapeños for those who like it spicy.
- Garnish with avocado slices or guacamole for creaminess.
- Serve alongside a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
- Complement with a refreshing limeade or iced tea.
- Use as a filling for soft tortillas for a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing
• Portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top for expansion.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
• Add a splash of broth or water if it seems dry.
• Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for this skillet dish?
For the Loaded Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet, Yukon Gold or red potatoes are excellent choices. They hold their shape well during cooking and provide a creamy texture. You can also use russet potatoes if you prefer a fluffier bite, just be sure to cut them into smaller pieces for even cooking.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply substitute the ground meat with a plant-based alternative like lentils or crumbled tofu. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers and corn for added flavor and nutrition.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.
Can I customize the toppings?
Definitely! This dish is super versatile. Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado, sour cream, jalapeños, or fresh cilantro. You can also switch up the cheese for a different flavor profile, such as pepper jack for a spicy kick!