Description
Taco Fries
Ingredients:
4 large russet potatoes, cut into fries
2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade)
1/4 cup water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 cup salsa
1/4 cup chopped green onions
1/4 cup sliced black olives (optional)
1/4 cup diced tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss potato fries with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a baking sheet. Bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy.
In a skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
Add taco seasoning and water to the beef, stirring until well combined. Simmer for 5 minutes.
Once fries are done, transfer them to a serving plate. Top with taco-seasoned beef.
Sprinkle shredded cheese over the beef while still hot to melt.
Add sour cream, salsa, green onions, black olives, and diced tomatoes on top.
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Prep Time: 35 minutes
Kcal: 480 per serving
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Prepare the Fries: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While it heats, cut 4 large russet potatoes into uniform 1/2-inch sticks for even cooking. In a large bowl, toss the fries with 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Arrange them in a single layer on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ensuring they are not crowded. This is key for crispiness.
2. Cook the Beef: As the fries bake (25-30 mins, flip halfway), heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 lb of ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until no pink remains, then drain the excess fat thoroughly.
3. Season the Beef: Reduce heat to medium. Add 1 packet of taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water to the skillet. Stir constantly for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and coats the beef. Remove from heat.
4. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the hot, crispy fries to your serving platter. Immediately spoon the seasoned beef evenly over the top. Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese over the hot beef so it melts.
5. Add Toppings: Finish by adding dollops of sour cream and salsa, then scatter the chopped green onions, diced tomatoes, and optional black olives over everything. Serve right away.
Serving Suggestions
For the ultimate experience, serve Taco Fries directly on the baking sheet for a fun, communal meal. Pair with cold Mexican beer, a tangy margarita, or a refreshing agua fresca. To round out the meal, offer simple sides like a light corn and black bean salad or crisp lettuce wedges with a lime vinaigrette to balance the richness.
How-to Summary
Cut and bake seasoned potato fries until crispy. Simultaneously, brown ground beef, drain fat, and simmer with taco seasoning and water. Layer the hot fries on a platter, top with the beef and cheese to melt, then finish with cold toppings like sour cream, salsa, and fresh vegetables. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with frozen fries? Absolutely. For a quicker version, use a bag of high-quality frozen french fries or steak fries. Bake or air-fry according to package directions until extra crispy.
How can I make this vegetarian? Substitute the ground beef with a plant-based ground alternative or a can of drained and rinsed black beans or lentils. Use the same taco seasoning steps.
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? You can cook the taco meat 1-2 days in advance and reheat it gently. However, fries are best cooked fresh to maintain their texture. Chop all your vegetable toppings ahead and store them separately.
What’s the best way to get crispy oven fries? The secrets are using russet potatoes, ensuring they are thoroughly dried after washing, tossing them well in oil, and spacing them in a single layer on the baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding.
Can I use a different cheese? Yes. Pepper jack adds a nice kick, while a Mexican cheese blend offers great meltability. Monterrey Jack or queso fresco are also excellent choices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Soggy Fries: Overcrowding the baking sheet steams the fries. Use two sheets if necessary.
- Greasy Beef: Not draining the excess fat after browning the beef can make the final dish oily.
- Cold Toppings on Cold Fries: Assemble and serve immediately after the fries and beef come out of the oven/pan so the cheese melts and the hot/cold contrast is perfect.
- Underseasoning: Don’t forget to season the potato fries with salt and pepper before baking; they are a foundational layer.
Conclusion
Taco Fries are the ultimate fusion comfort food, combining the best of crispy fries, savory taco meat, and cool, fresh toppings. This highly customizable dish is perfect for game day, a casual family dinner, or a fun appetizer to share. By following the step-by-step guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a restaurant-quality meal at home that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Dig in and enjoy the delicious layers of flavor and texture.