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Taco Potato Skins

Crispy Taco Potato Skins filled with leftover ground beef taco meat, cheddar cheese, and fresh toppings make an easy appetizer for parties, game day, or a fun family meal.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Down Time20 minutes
Total Time1 hour 35 minutes
Course: Appetizer, Snack
Servings: 8
Author: Carol

Ingredients

  • 4 small potatoes, scrubbed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1-2 tsp salt
  • cup cheddar cheese, shredded
  • ¼ lb leftover ground beef taco meat
  • ¼ cup shredded lettuce
  • 1 small roma tomato, diced
  • 2-3 tbsp sour cream

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F. While it heats, dice the tomato and chop the lettuce. Set them aside for topping the potato skins later.
  • Wash the potatoes well, scrub away any dirt, and pat them as dry as possible with a clean kitchen towel.
  • Poke each potato several times with a fork. Brush them all over with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt.
  • Place the potatoes directly on the oven rack and bake for 35-45 minutes, or until they can be easily pierced with a fork.
  • Transfer the baked potatoes to a plate or cutting board and let them cool for 15-20 minutes, until they're comfortable enough to handle.
  • Slice each potato in half lengthwise. Using a small spoon, carefully scoop out the flesh, leaving about ⅛ to ¼ inch of potato attached to the skin so it stays sturdy. Save the scooped-out potato for mashed potatoes, or another recipe if desired.
  • Line a small baking sheet with aluminum foil. Arrange the potato halves cut side down, brush the skins lightly with olive oil, and bake for 8 minutes.
  • Turn the potato skins over so the cut side is facing up. Return them to the oven and bake for another 8 minutes, until the edges are crisp.
  • Remove the potato skins from the oven. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese into each one, then top with the warm taco meat. Bake for another 5 minutes.
  • Top each potato skin with the chopped lettuce, diced tomato, and a dollop of sour cream.
  • Serve and enjoy!