Taco Potatoes in the Air Fryer
Taco Potatoes combine the crispy, comforting feel of baked potatoes with the bold, zesty flavors of classic tacos. Made in the air fryer, the potatoes come out perfectly golden and fluffy inside, ready to be loaded up with seasoned meat, cheese, salsa, and all the fixings. Great as a weeknight dinner, party snack, or meal prep favorite!
Ingredients (Serves 3–4)
For the Potatoes:
3–4 medium russet potatoes (about 150–200g each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt (for skin)
For the Taco Filling:
250g (½ lb) ground beef or ground turkey
½ onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon taco seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons tomato paste or salsa
Salt & pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon water (for saucier filling)
Toppings (customize as desired):
Shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Salsa or pico de gallo
Sliced jalapeños
Shredded lettuce
Diced tomatoes
Avocado or guacamole
Fresh cilantro
Air Fryer Timing Overview
Whole Potatoes: 35–40 minutes at 390°F / 200°C
Taco Meat (in foil or air fryer-safe pan): 8–10 minutes at 375°F / 190°C
Final melt (optional): 2 minutes at 350°F / 175°C
Instructions
Prep & Air Fry the Potatoes
Scrub and dry the potatoes.
Rub with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
Pierce each potato with a fork 2–3 times.
Place in the air fryer basket and cook at 390°F (200°C) for 35–40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fork-tender.
Check doneness by inserting a knife or fork—if it slides in easily, they’re ready.
Prepare the Taco Filling (while potatoes cook)
In a skillet or an air fryer-safe dish/pan:
Add ground meat and chopped onion.
Mix in taco seasoning and tomato paste.
Cook in air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway, until meat is fully browned and cooked through.
If using a skillet on stovetop, cook over medium heat until done (about 8 minutes).
Optional: Add a tablespoon of water for saucier texture and mix well before the final minute.
Assemble the Taco Potatoes
Once potatoes are done, let them cool slightly.
Slice each potato lengthwise (not all the way through) and fluff the inside with a fork.
Spoon in a generous portion of taco meat.
Top with shredded cheese, then return to the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 minutes to melt.
Add Toppings & Serve
Remove from air fryer and add your favorite toppings: sour cream, salsa, avocado, lettuce, jalapeños, and more.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with lime wedges and tortilla chips on the side.
Great as a meal or game day snack platter.
Tips & Variations
Vegetarian option: Swap meat for black beans, corn, and bell pepper sautéed with taco seasoning.
Make it spicy: Add chipotle sauce or hot salsa.
Mini version: Use small baby potatoes for bite-sized taco bombs!