Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Scrub the russet potatoes under running water to clean them. Pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Pierce each potato several times with a fork, then rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 45-60 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
- Cook the Taco Filling:
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning, black beans, corn, and salsa to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Assemble the Stuffed Potatoes:
- Once the potatoes are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Cut a lengthwise slit down the top of each potato and gently fluff the insides with a fork.
- Spoon the taco filling generously into each potato, packing it slightly. Top with shredded cheese, allowing it to melt from the heat of the filling.
- Add Toppings and Serve:
- Top the stuffed potatoes with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, green onions, jalapeños, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes
- Customize Your Filling: Feel free to swap out the ground meat for beans or lentils for a vegetarian option, or add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
- Make It Spicy: If you like a bit of heat, consider using spicy salsa or adding diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Meal Prep: You can bake the potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat them and add the filling and toppings.
Serving Suggestions
Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes are filling on their own, but you can also serve them with:
- Side Salad: A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the stuffed potatoes.
- Tortilla Chips and Salsa: Serve with crispy tortilla chips and extra salsa for a complete taco night experience.
- Mexican Street Corn: For a fun twist, serve alongside elote or Mexican street corn for a flavorful side dish.
Conclusion
Taco Stuffed Baked Potatoes are a deliciously satisfying meal that brings the flavors of taco night to the comforting familiarity of a baked potato. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, these stuffed potatoes are perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner, a casual gathering, or a fun weeknight meal. With their fluffy interiors and savory taco filling, they’re sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, get creative with toppings, and enjoy this tasty twist on a classic comfort food!
Feel free to make any adjustments or add personal touches to fit your style!