Name: Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Mexican-American
Ingredients: 700 g (1 lb 9 oz) potatoes, diced into 2 cm (¾ inch) cubes; 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; 1 tsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp garlic powder; ½ tsp sea salt flakes; ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil; ½ red onion, finely chopped; 500 g (1 lb 2 oz) minced (ground) beef (regular or lean); 1 tbsp sweet paprika; 1 tbsp ground cumin; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp sea salt flakes; ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tbsp tomato paste (concentrated puree); ¼ cup (60 ml) water; 2 avocados, mashed with a fork; ¼ bunch coriander (cilantro), finely chopped; ¼ red onion, finely diced; Juice of 1 lime; ½ tsp sea salt flakes; ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper; 2 tomatoes, finely diced; ¼ bunch coriander (cilantro), finely chopped; ¼ red onion, finely diced; Juice of 1 lime; ½ tsp sea salt flakes; ¼ tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 86 reviews

If you’re craving a taco night that breaks free from the usual tortilla wrap, you are absolutely going to love this Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe. It’s a perfect harmony of crispy, spiced potatoes that form a golden base, topped with richly seasoned spiced beef, creamy fresh guacamole, and tangy salsa, all crowned with melted cheese and optional lime wedges for a zesty finish. Every bite is a celebration of textures and flavors that feel indulgent but are surprisingly easy to prepare. This dish brings a fresh, satisfying twist to taco night that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of a clear rectangular glass container filled with cooked ground beef mixed with small pieces of cooked onion. The beef is dark brown and crumbly, spread evenly to cover the entire surface of the container. The container sits on its clear plastic lid, resting on a light wooden surface instead of the white marbled texture in the instructions. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe hinges on simple, accessible ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Each component builds a layer of texture and taste, from the crispy potatoes that soak up spice perfectly to the creamy guacamole and bright salsa that bring freshness and vibrancy to the bowl.

Potatoes (700 g diced): The star base that crisps up beautifully, providing hearty texture and warmth to the bowl.
Extra-virgin olive oil (3 tbsp total): Essential for crisping potatoes and sautéing beef without overpowering flavors.
Sweet paprika (2 tbsp): Adds a smoky, sweet depth to both potatoes and beef, tying the flavors together.
Garlic powder (2 tsp): Brings subtle savory notes that enhance the earthiness of potatoes and the spiced beef.
Sea salt flakes and freshly cracked black pepper: Balances and heightens each element’s natural flavors throughout the dish.
Minced beef (500 g): Juicy and rich, it forms the protein-packed heart of the bowl with aromatic spices.
Red onion (½ and ¼, finely chopped): Adds a sweet yet sharp crispness in both the beef and fresh toppings.
Ground cumin, onion powder, dried oregano: These spices build a fiesta of warmth and spice within the beef mixture.
Tomato paste (2 tbsp): Intensifies the beef’s saucy richness, melding the spices together beautifully.
Avocados (2, mashed): They create a creamy, buttery guacamole that cools the spiced elements perfectly.
Coriander (cilantro): Provides fresh, citrusy brightness in both the guacamole and salsa.
Lime juice (from 1 lime): A zesty kick that lifts the guacamole and salsa, making the flavors pop.
Tomatoes (2, finely diced): Bring juicy, sweet bursts in the tangy salsa topping.
Mexican cheese blend (2 cups): Melts over the top for irresistible gooey richness that pulls it all together.
Lime wedges (optional): Great for adding fresh acidity at serving to balance the full flavors.

How to Make Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe

Step 1: Achieve Crispy Roasted Potatoes

Start by preheating your oven or air fryer to ensure a hot environment perfect for crisping. Toss diced potatoes with olive oil, sweet paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper so each cube gets evenly coated. Spread them out in a single layer on parchment paper to prevent steaming and promote golden edges. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes turning halfway or air fry for 20 to 25 minutes shaking the basket occasionally until the potatoes are irresistibly crispy on the outside yet fluffy inside.

Step 2: Create the Spiced Beef Mixture

While the potatoes crisp up, sauté finely chopped red onion in olive oil until fragrant and softened. Add the minced beef, breaking it apart and browning it evenly. Stir in sweet paprika, cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper to infuse deep layers of flavor. For richness and cohesion, blend in tomato paste and a splash of water, then simmer gently to meld all the spices with the beef. This mixture will be flavorful and juicy, the perfect protein layer in your bowl.

Step 3: Whip Up Fresh Guacamole

Mash ripe avocados in a bowl, then fold in finely chopped coriander, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper. This guacamole is creamy and vibrant, designed to cool down the spiced heat from the beef while adding a buttery texture to the dish. It’s freshness at its finest!

Step 4: Prepare Zesty Tomato Salsa

Dice tomatoes finely and combine with chopped coriander, red onion, lime juice, salt, and pepper. The salsa is bright and tangy, offering a juicy contrast to the warm, spicy beef and crispy potatoes. Keep it chilled until serving for the best pops of flavor.

Step 5: Assemble the Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe

Distribute the crispy potatoes evenly among your serving bowls. Top generously with the spiced beef, then sprinkle with grated Mexican cheese—feel free to add extra cheese if you want a meltier, gooier finish. Dollop on fresh guacamole and spoon over the bright salsa. Complete the presentation with optional lime wedges to squeeze over just before enjoying.

How to Serve Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe

A white bowl filled with three main layers: a base layer of golden brown, crispy potato cubes; a middle layer of dark brown cooked ground meat scattered evenly over the potatoes; and on top, a mound of bright green mashed avocado with a chunky texture. There is also a colorful topping of chopped red tomatoes mixed with bits of purple onion and green herbs, placed on one side of the avocado. A fresh lime wedge rests on the edge of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface next to a fork and a glass of amber liquid with ice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For that extra wow factor, sprinkle fresh coriander leaves or chopped green onions atop your bowl for added color and brightness. A drizzle of sour cream or a scattering of thinly sliced jalapeños also brings delightful creaminess and a kick of heat that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

If you want to round out your meal, consider serving this bowl alongside a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some crisp tortilla chips to scoop up any extra guacamole and salsa. A side of Mexican rice or refried beans will also add heartiness and depth to your feast.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, serve the components separately in small bowls and let everyone craft their own loaded potato taco bowls to suit personal tastes. Alternatively, use colorful bowls or rustic cast iron skillets for a cozy, inviting presentation that will impress guests with your culinary flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover potatoes, beef, guacamole, and salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The beef and potatoes stay tasty for up to 3 days, while guacamole and salsa are best consumed within 1 to 2 days to retain freshness and color.

Freezing

The spiced beef and roasted potatoes freeze well individually. Store cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 2 months. Guacamole and salsa do not freeze well as they lose their texture and fresh flavor.

Reheating

Reheat the beef and potatoes in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispness to the potatoes and heat evenly. Avoid microwaving guacamole or salsa; instead, give them a good stir and serve chilled for the best eating experience.

FAQs

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and pair beautifully with the spicy beef and fresh toppings. Just keep an eye on baking times as sweet potatoes might cook a bit faster.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! Because the components store well separately, you can prepare everything ahead and assemble when ready to eat, making it a convenient and delicious meal prep option.

Can I make the beef spicier?

Yes, feel free to add chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the beef mixture if you like your taco bowl with a spicy kick.

What can I substitute for Mexican cheese blend?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of mozzarella and a little chili powder work well as alternatives if you can’t find a Mexican blend.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Swap the spiced beef for spiced plant-based mince or seasoned black beans for a satisfying vegetarian version that still delivers hearty flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

This Loaded Potato Taco Bowl with Crispy Potatoes, Spiced Beef, Guacamole, and Salsa Recipe is everything a cozy, comforting, and flavorful meal should be. It reinvents taco night with a delicious and unexpected twist you’ll want to make again and again. Dive in, savor each layer, and enjoy sharing this comforting bowl of joy with friends and family!