Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet: A One-Pan Tex-Mex Favorite

This Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet combines tender baby potatoes, seasoned ground beef, and melty cheese into a comforting one-pan dish. Finished with fresh toppings like tomatoes and green onions, this Tex-Mex-inspired skillet is perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Serve it as a hearty main course, a party appetizer, or even a taco filling—versatility at its finest!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Convenience: Minimal prep and easy cleanup make this a quick, fuss-free meal.
• Comforting & Flavorful: Packed with taco seasoning, cheesy goodness, and crispy potatoes.
• Customizable: Adjust the spice level, add toppings, or swap out ingredients to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Sharing: Great for family dinners, potlucks, or game-day spreads.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef: The hearty, protein-packed base of the dish. Ground turkey or chicken can also work.
• 1 lb baby potatoes, halved: Provide a tender, crispy starch that complements the beef.
• 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix): Infuses the dish with classic Tex-Mex flavors.
• 1 cup water: Helps dissolve and blend the taco seasoning into the beef.
• 1 1/2 cups shredded Mexican cheese blend: A mix of cheddar, Monterey Jack, and queso for gooey, cheesy perfection.
• 1 medium tomato, diced: Adds freshness and a pop of color.
• 2 green onions, chopped: A crisp, flavorful garnish for the finished dish.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Used to sauté the potatoes for a golden, crispy finish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for the final bake.

Step 2: Sauté the Potatoes

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the halved baby potatoes, cut-side down, and sauté for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and tender.
3. Remove the potatoes from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef Mixture

1. In the same skillet, add the ground beef and diced onion.
2. Cook over medium heat, breaking the beef into small crumbles, until browned and the onions are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning and water, mixing until well combined.
5. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and coat the beef.

Step 4: Combine Potatoes and Beef

1. Add the cooked potatoes back into the skillet with the ground beef mixture.
2. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the potatoes are evenly coated with the taco-seasoned beef.

Step 5: Add Cheese and Bake

1. Sprinkle the shredded Mexican cheese blend evenly over the top of the skillet.
2. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden.

Step 6: Top and Serve

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly.
2. Top with diced tomato and chopped green onions for a fresh, colorful finish.
3. Serve hot with tortilla chips, sour cream, guacamole, or a fresh salad on the side.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet

1. Evenly Sized Potatoes: Halve the baby potatoes into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Use an Oven-Safe Skillet: Cast iron or stainless steel skillets work best for stovetop-to-oven cooking.
3. Don’t Overcook the Beef: Drain any excess grease before adding the taco seasoning to keep the dish from becoming oily.
4. Customize the Heat: Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
5. Fresh Toppings: Finish with fresh toppings like cilantro, avocado slices, or lime wedges for added flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile taco skillet pairs well with many sides and toppings for a complete Tex-Mex feast:

• Tortilla Chips: Scoop up the cheesy, beefy mixture for a nacho-style snack.
• Rice or Quinoa: Serve over rice or quinoa for a heartier, more filling option.
• Tacos or Wraps: Use the beef and potato mixture as a filling for tacos or burritos.
• Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or a side of coleslaw for a lighter contrast.
• Guacamole or Salsa: Add creamy guacamole or spicy salsa for an extra burst of flavor.

Recipe Variations

1. Vegetarian Option: Replace the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based ground meat substitute.
2. Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or chipotle powder for extra heat.
3. Cheesy Overload: Stir some of the cheese directly into the skillet before topping for an ultra-cheesy dish.
4. Add Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, corn, or zucchini for added nutrients and color.
5. Breakfast Skillet: Crack a few eggs on top of the skillet before baking for a taco-inspired breakfast dish.

Nutritional Information

(Per Serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: ~360
• Protein: ~22g
• Fat: ~18g
• Carbohydrates: ~25g
• Fiber: ~3g

Storage and Reheating

Storage:

• Let the skillet cool completely, then transfer leftovers to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Freezing:

• Freeze the beef and potato mixture (without the cheese topping) in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight, add cheese, and bake before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the skillet up to the step where you add the cheese. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, bake as directed.

2. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack are great substitutes for the Mexican cheese blend.

3. What if I don’t have taco seasoning?

Make your own by combining 1 tsp chili powder, 1/2 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp onion powder.

4. Can I skip the oven step?

Yes! If you don’t want to bake, simply cover the skillet with a lid on the stovetop and cook over low heat until the cheese is melted.

5. How do I make this low-carb?

Swap the potatoes for diced zucchini, cauliflower, or bell peppers to reduce carbs.

Conclusion

This Cheesy Taco Potato Skillet is an easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re serving it as a family dinner, party dish, or meal-prep option, the combination of seasoned beef, crispy potatoes, and gooey cheese is always a winner. Customize it to your taste and enjoy this Tex-Mex-inspired comfort food any night of the week!

Print