Taco Potatoes
Taco Potatoes is a quick, easy, and flavorful dish combining crispy potatoes with a zesty taco seasoning blend, perfect for busy weeknights. This versatile and family-friendly recipe brings together bold spices, comforting textures, and optional melty cheese for a satisfying meal or side dish that’s naturally gluten-free and customizable.
- Author: Lilly
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Potatoes and Vegetables
- 3 large Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, diced into bite-sized cubes
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings & Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons taco seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and paprika)
Optional & Garnishes
- 1 cup shredded cheese (such as cheddar, queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack) – optional
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 1 lime, cut into wedges for squeezing
- Prep the Potatoes: Wash and dice your potatoes into bite-sized cubes. Soak them in cold water for 10 minutes to remove excess starch, then pat completely dry to ensure maximum crispiness during cooking.
- Season and Sauté: Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Toss the dried potatoes in the taco seasoning, then add them to the skillet. Stir often to cook evenly and develop a golden crust.
- Cook Through and Crisp: Lower heat slightly and cover the skillet, allowing the potatoes to cook through and soften, stirring occasionally. Once tender, remove the lid and increase the heat slightly to re-crisp the edges for the perfect texture contrast.
- Add Cheese and Finish: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the hot potatoes and cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt gently. Finish by squeezing fresh lime juice over the dish and garnishing with chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Dry your potatoes thoroughly to reduce moisture for crispier potatoes.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to evenly distribute heat and prevent sticking or burning.
- Do not crowd the pan; cook potatoes in batches if necessary to ensure proper crisping.
- Adjust seasoning gradually; start with half the taco seasoning and add more to taste.
- Cover the skillet when adding cheese to melt it gently without burning.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: Taco Potatoes, quick dinner, easy recipe, spicy potatoes, gluten free, family-friendly, vegetarian option