Irish Taco
A hearty, flavorful twist on tacos using baked potatoes as shells, filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, lettuce, and fresh tomatoes for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Split the tops of the baked potatoes and scoop out the pulp.
- Place the extra pulp in a plastic bag and freeze for later use.
- Mash the remaining pulp in a mixing bowl.
- Flatten the two potato shells to form 'taco shells' and keep warm.
- Add cooked ground beef to the mashed potato and mix well.
- Add taco sauce and grated cheese to the mixture.
- Mix thoroughly until combined.
- Fill the potato shells with the beef mixture and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, try using sweet potatoes for a sweeter flavor. You can substitute the ground beef with shredded chicken or a plant-based meat alternative for a lighter version. If you want more spice, add jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture. This recipe can also be made quicker by using leftover baked potatoes. Pair with a side of Mexican Rice Pilaf for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Irish Tacos with a side of fresh salsa and guacamole for added flavor. They also pair beautifully with Stephen'S Mexican Casserole for a delightful dinner spread. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for creaminess. A light salad or corn on the side can also complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffed potato shells in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes for a crispier shell.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Irish Taco contains roughly 825 calories, with 30g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 39g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (248% of the Daily Value), iron (91% of the Daily Value), and potassium (77% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 571mg per serving (25% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the potato shells and beef mixture ahead of time. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, fill the potato shells and heat them in the oven or microwave. This makes for a quick meal during busy weeknights.
What can I do with leftover potato pulp?
The leftover potato pulp can be used in various ways. Consider mixing it into soups for added creaminess, or use it in making potato pancakes or hash browns. You can also incorporate it into the next batch of mashed potatoes for a flavor boost.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the filled potato shells. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).