Loaded Fiesta Potato Bowls (Printable Version)

Crispy spiced potatoes layered with hearty taco meat and melted cheese for a colorful, flavorful bowl.

# Everything You’ll Need:

→ Potatoes

01 - 4-5 medium Russet potatoes, sliced
02 - 2 tbsp olive oil
03 - 1 tsp onion powder
04 - 1 tsp garlic powder
05 - 1 tsp chili powder
06 - 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Taco Meat

08 - 1.5 lbs ground beef
09 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
10 - 1 packet taco seasoning
11 - 1/2 to 1 cup water or beef broth

→ Cheese Sauce

12 - 2 tbsp unsalted butter
13 - 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
14 - 1 tsp salt
15 - 1 tsp black pepper
16 - 1 tsp chili powder
17 - 1 cup whole milk
18 - 8 oz freshly grated mild cheddar cheese

→ Toppings & Garnishes

19 - Juice of 1 lime
20 - 1 Roma tomato, diced
21 - Handful of fresh cilantro, chopped
22 - Reserved 1/4 cup chopped yellow onion
23 - Hot sauce, as desired
24 - Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt, sliced jalapeños, avocado or guacamole

# Steps to Cook:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Toss sliced potatoes with olive oil, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Spread evenly on a baking sheet and roast for 45 minutes, flipping halfway through to ensure even crispiness.
02 - In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef with finely chopped onion until fully cooked. Drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and add water or beef broth. Simmer until the mixture thickens.
03 - In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in all-purpose flour, salt, black pepper, and chili powder until smooth. Gradually pour in whole milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheddar cheese until fully melted and incorporated.
04 - Layer roasted potatoes in bowls, top with taco meat, and drizzle with cheese sauce. Garnish with lime juice, diced Roma tomato, chopped cilantro, reserved chopped onion, and a splash of hot sauce. Add optional toppings like sour cream, jalapeños, or avocado as preferred.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For extra crispiness, soak sliced potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes before seasoning and roasting.