Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

These Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for any occasion, these tacos feature a crispy exterior filled with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese that will leave your taste buds dancing. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner, planning a family gathering, or simply craving comfort food, these cheesy potato tacos will surely satisfy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, anyone can whip up these tasty tacos in no time.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of spices and cheese creates a savory filling that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy them as an appetizer, main course, or even at parties; they fit any occasion perfectly.
• Vegetarian-Friendly: A great option for those looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing flavor.
• Customizable Toppings: Top with your favorite ingredients like salsa, guacamole, or fresh veggies for a personalized touch.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have the right tools on hand. Having the right equipment makes preparing Cheesy Potato Tacos easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Blender
• Frying pan
• Tongs
• Microwave or skillet

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling potatoes quickly and evenly.
• Blender: Essential for making a smooth and flavorful sauce from cooked tomatoes and spices.
• Frying pan: Provides even heat for frying the tacos to golden perfection.

Ingredients

These cheesy potato tacos are crunchy on the outside and filled with a creamy mix of mashed potatoes, cheese, and spices.

For the Taco Filling

• 2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and chopped)
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt (divided)
• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup queso fresco (crumbled)

For the Sauce

• 1 lb plum (roma) tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1 tsp dried Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For Frying Tacos

• 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying tacos)
• 16 corn tortillas

How to Make Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Bring a large pot of water and 1 tablespoon salt to boil. Add chopped potatoes, reduce heat to medium, and cook until soft when pierced with a fork—about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

Trim the stem end off tomatoes and score a + on the bottom of each. Boil tomatoes in 3 cups of water for 10 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of cooking water. Peel tomatoes, add them to a blender with garlic, cumin, oregano, pepper, salt, and one cup of reserved cooking water. Puree until smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

In the same saucepan used for boiling tomatoes, heat oil over medium heat. Add the tomato sauce and let it cook for 1 minute. Add remaining cooking water and simmer for about 5 minutes until reduced and thickened. Set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Filling

Drain cooked potatoes and transfer them back into the pot. Add butter, remaining tablespoon of salt, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and cheese. Mash until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

Wrap tortillas in two batches using paper towels. Heat in microwave for 10 seconds or on a hot skillet until soft enough to avoid cracking.

Step 6: Assemble Tacos

Lay each tortilla flat; fill half with about 2 tablespoons of mashed potato filling. Fold in half gently pressing down.

Step 7: Fry Tacos

Heat oil in a frying pan until very hot (test by dipping edge of tortilla; if it sizzles, it’s ready). Using tongs, fry four tacos at a time for about 2 minutes until golden brown on both sides. Remove from oil and place on paper towel-lined plate.

Step 8: Serve with Sauce

Enjoy your cheesy potato tacos with your favorite toppings like queso fresco, shredded cheese, iceberg lettuce, pico de gallo, or salsa!

How to Serve Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Cheesy potato tacos are a delightful dish that can be served in various ways, enhancing their flavor and presentation. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

With Fresh Toppings

• Queso Fresco: Crumbled fresh cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the tacos perfectly.
• Shredded Lettuce: Crisp iceberg lettuce offers a refreshing crunch that balances the rich filling.
• Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings brightness and acidity to each bite.

Accompanied by Dipping Sauces

• Salsa Verde: A tangy green salsa made from tomatillos enhances the flavors of the tacos with its zesty kick.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip adds richness and is always a crowd-pleaser.
• Chipotle Sauce: Smoky and spicy, this sauce can bring an exciting twist to your cheesy potato tacos.

Served with Sides

• Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes for a satisfying side that pairs well with tacos.
• Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide protein and additional flavor; serve them on the side or spooned over the tacos.

How to Perfect Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

To ensure your cheesy potato tacos turn out perfectly every time, follow these simple tips for success.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and spices enhance the flavor of your tacos significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Cook potatoes just until tender; overcooking can make them watery.
• Heat Oil Properly: Ensure the oil is hot enough before frying. It should sizzle when you dip a tortilla edge in it.
• Mash Thoroughly: Mix the mashed potatoes until smooth for an even filling texture.
• Wrap Tortillas Before Heating: Wrapping tortillas in paper towels keeps them warm and pliable, preventing cracking during assembly.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Pairing side dishes with your cheesy potato tacos can enhance the meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Spanish Rice: Flavored with tomatoes and spices, this side dish adds extra heartiness to your meal.
2. Black Beans: Packed with protein, black beans can be served whole or refried for added richness.
3. Corn Salad: A refreshing mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime juice provides a sweet contrast to savory flavors.
4. Chips & Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa make for an excellent appetizer before diving into tacos.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add a smoky flavor that complements cheesy potatoes well.
6. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs nicely with savory tacos while providing extra nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) can be a fun and delicious experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Ignoring potato consistency: Ensure the potatoes are well-mashed and creamy. Lumpy potatoes can make it difficult to fill the tacos properly.
• Overcrowding the frying pan: Frying too many tacos at once can lower the oil temperature, leading to soggy tortillas. Fry in smaller batches for a better crunch.
• Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your mashed potatoes adequately. Under-seasoned filling can lead to bland tacos.
• Not warming tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when filled and folded. Always warm them up first for better pliability.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: Allow the sauce to simmer long enough to develop flavors. A rushed sauce might lack depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover tacos in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

• Freeze assembled but uncooked tacos for up to 2 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes. The texture may be softer compared to frying.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa).

Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to substitute queso fresco with shredded cheese like Monterey Jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

How do I make these tacos spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or chili powder into the potato mixture for extra heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.

Can I make Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and sauce ahead of time, then assemble and fry just before serving.

What toppings pair well with these tacos?

Popular toppings include pico de gallo, shredded lettuce, avocado slices, or additional crumbled queso fresco.

Are these tacos vegetarian?

Yes, Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) are vegetarian-friendly since they do not contain meat or animal-derived ingredients.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) offer a delightful blend of textures and flavors that everyone will love. They’re versatile too—feel free to customize them with your favorite toppings or spices. Try this recipe today and enjoy a tasty meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

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Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8 tacos 1x

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Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa), where crispy corn tortillas cradle a creamy filling of mashed potatoes, spices, and melted cheese. This Mexican-inspired dish brings a comforting twist to your table, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. With its easy-to-follow steps and customizable toppings, these tacos are not only a hit among vegetarians but also a satisfying option for everyone. Serve them with fresh salsa, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick. Elevate your taco night with this irresistible recipe that combines crunch and creaminess in every bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs russet potatoes
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 cup queso fresco
• 16 corn tortillas
• 1 lb plum tomatoes
• Vegetable oil for frying
• 2 tablespoons kosher salt (divided)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 tsp dried Mexican oregano
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil (for sauce)

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Instructions

1. Boil peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and return to pot.
2. Mash potatoes with butter, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and queso fresco until smooth.
3. Prepare the sauce by boiling tomatoes for 10 minutes. Blend with garlic and spices until smooth.
4. Heat oil in a frying pan. Warm tortillas briefly before filling each with mashed potato mixture and folding.
5. Fry tacos in hot oil until golden brown on both sides.
6. Serve warm with your choice of toppings.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Frying
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 taco (100g)
• Calories: 210
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 350mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 27g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg