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Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes

Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes
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Taco Loaded Baked Potatoes combine fluffy baked russet potatoes with savory taco-seasoned meat, black beans, melty cheese, and fresh toppings like tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. This quick and easy, family-friendly dish offers a flavorful, customizable meal perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, delivering a balanced meal packed with protein, fiber, and comforting carbs.

Ingredients

Scale

Potatoes

  • 4 large russet baking potatoes

Protein

  • 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 tbsp taco seasoning (blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, etc.)

Beans

  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed

Cheese

  • 1 to 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend

Fresh Toppings

  • 1 cup fresh tomatoes, chopped
  • ¼ cup green onions, thinly sliced
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Jalapeños or hot sauce, to taste (optional)
  • ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

Instructions

  1. Bake the Potatoes: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes clean, then pierce each a few times with a fork. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack or on a baking sheet and bake for 45 to 60 minutes until tender when pierced with a fork.
  2. Prepare Taco Meat: While the potatoes bake, heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or turkey until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning mixed with a little water. Let the mixture simmer until the meat absorbs the spices and thickens slightly.
  3. Warm Black Beans: In a small saucepan or microwave-safe bowl, gently warm the black beans until heated through. Season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
  4. Assemble the Loaded Potatoes: Once the potatoes are baked, let them cool slightly. Slice each potato lengthwise and fluff the insides with a fork. Generously top each potato with the seasoned taco meat, warmed black beans, and shredded cheese while the potatoes are still hot to allow the cheese to melt perfectly.
  5. Add Fresh Toppings: Finish by adding chopped tomatoes, green onions, sour cream or Greek yogurt, cilantro, and jalapeños or hot sauce if using. Serve immediately to enjoy all the layers of flavor.

Notes

  • For quicker baking, microwave potatoes for 5-6 minutes before finishing in the oven.
  • Adjust taco seasoning to taste starting with less and adding more to preferred spice level.
  • To melt cheese perfectly, cover assembled potatoes briefly with foil or place under broiler for a minute.
  • Add fresh cilantro last to preserve bright flavor and prevent wilting.
  • Use gluten-free taco seasoning to keep this dish gluten free.

Nutrition

Keywords: taco loaded baked potatoes, baked potatoes, taco meat, easy dinner, family meal, gluten free, ground beef, ground turkey, vegetarian option

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/taco-loaded-baked-potatoes/