These Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) are a delightful twist on traditional tacos. Crunchy on the outside and filled with creamy mashed potatoes, cheese, and a blend of spices, they are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or looking for a fun snack, these tacos will please everyone at your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ease of Preparation – This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginners and seasoned cooks.
- Flavorful Filling – The combination of spices and creamy cheese creates a deliciously rich filling.
- Versatile Toppings – Customize your tacos with a variety of toppings like lettuce, salsa, or pico de gallo.
- Crowd-Pleaser – These tacos are sure to be a hit at gatherings, making them an ideal party dish.
- Budget-Friendly – Made with affordable ingredients, this recipe is easy on the wallet.
Tools and Preparation
To make these cheesy potato tacos, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Saucepan
- Blender
- Frying pan
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling potatoes evenly until soft.
- Blender: Perfect for creating a smooth sauce that enhances the flavor of your tacos.
- Frying pan: Essential for achieving that golden, crispy texture on the tortillas.
- Tongs: Help safely flip and remove tacos from hot oil without burns.
Ingredients
These cheesy potato tacos are crunchy on the outside and filled with a creamy mix of mashed potatoes, cheese, and spices.
For the Potato Filling
- 2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and chopped)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt (divided)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup queso fresco (crumbled)
For Frying Tacos
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying tacos)
- 16 corn tortillas
For the Sauce
- 1 lb plum (roma) tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
How to Make Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
Step 1: Boil the Potatoes
Bring a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon salt to a boil.
– Add chopped potatoes.
– Cook until soft when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
Trim stem ends off tomatoes and make a + sign on the opposite/bottom of each.
– Boil tomatoes in 3 cups of water for 10 minutes.
– Reserve 2 cups of cooking water.
– Peel tomatoes, transfer to a blender, and add garlic, cumin, oregano, pepper, salt, and one cup of cooking water.
– Puree until smooth.
Step 3: Cook the Sauce
In the same saucepan:
– Heat oil over medium heat.
– Add sauce; let it cook for 1 minute.
– Add remaining cooking water; simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce and thicken. Set aside.
Step 4: Mash the Potatoes
Drain cooked potatoes and return them to the pot.
– Add butter, remaining tablespoon salt, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and cheese.
– Mash until combined; season with salt if needed.
Step 5: Prepare Tortillas
Wrap tortillas in two batches with paper towels.
– Heat in microwave for 10 seconds or on a hot skillet until soft to avoid cracking.
– Lay tortilla flat; fill half with about 2 tablespoons of mashed potatoes. Fold in half gently.
Step 6: Fry the Tacos
Heat oil in a frying pan until very hot (dip edge of tortilla; if it sizzles, it’s ready).
– Using tongs, fry four tacos at a time for about 2 minutes or until golden brown on both sides.
– Remove from oil onto paper-towel lined plate; continue frying remaining tacos.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your cheesy potato tacos with sauce or toppings such as queso fresco, shredded cheese, iceberg lettuce, pico de gallo, or salsa. Enjoy!
How to Serve Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
Cheesy potato tacos are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. You can enhance their flavor and presentation by pairing them with delicious toppings and sauces. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
Toppings
- Queso Fresco: Crumbled cheese adds a creamy texture and a mild flavor that complements the tacos perfectly.
- Shredded Cheese: Melted cheese on top creates a gooey, indulgent layer that makes every bite delightful.
- Iceberg Lettuce: Shredded lettuce provides a crunchy contrast to the soft potatoes, adding freshness.
- Pico de Gallo: A zesty salsa made from tomatoes, onions, and cilantro that brightens up the dish with its vibrant flavors.
- Salsa: Choose your favorite variety of salsa for an extra kick; whether mild or spicy, it adds depth to the tacos.
- Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado enhances the richness of the tacos while lending a smooth texture.
Sauces
- Tomato Sauce: Drizzle over the tacos for a tangy flavor boost that pairs well with cheesy fillings.
- Creamy Avocado Sauce: A blend of avocado, lime, and yogurt offers a refreshing dip that complements the crunchy tacos.
How to Perfect Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
Making cheesy potato tacos is easy, but perfecting them takes practice. Here are some tips to ensure your tacos turn out crispy and flavorful every time.
- Choose the Right Potatoes: Using russet potatoes gives you a fluffy interior that’s perfect for mashing and mixing with cheese.
- Season Generously: Don’t skimp on spices! Proper seasoning enhances the flavor of both the potatoes and sauce.
- Heat Oil Properly: Make sure your oil is hot enough before frying. It should sizzle when you dip a corner of the tortilla in it.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Frying too many tacos at once lowers the oil temperature, resulting in soggy tortillas. Work in batches instead.
- Keep Tortillas Warm: Wrap tortillas in paper towels to keep them warm and pliable while preparing your filling.
- Experiment with Fillings: Feel free to mix in other ingredients like beans or vegetables for added texture and nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
Pairing side dishes with cheesy potato tacos can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with spices adds heartiness to your meal. Serve it alongside for a complete dinner.
- Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide protein and pair well with cheesy flavors, making them an ideal side.
- Grilled Corn Salad: A fresh salad with grilled corn, bell peppers, and lime juice brings sweetness and crunch.
- Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances every bite of taco while adding healthy fats to your plate.
- Chips and Salsa: Crisp tortilla chips served with salsa make for a delightful appetizer or snack alongside your main dish.
- Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This light side dish is bursting with flavor and pairs nicely with the richness of cheesy potato tacos.
- Vegetable Slaw: A crunchy slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and cilantro offers brightness that balances the richness of the tacos.
- Baked Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy fries add sweetness and make for a fun way to enjoy more vegetables on your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making cheesy potato tacos, small mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the Potatoes: If you cook the potatoes too long, they may become waterlogged. Aim for 15 minutes or until fork-tender.
- Not Mashing Thoroughly: Leaving lumps in your potato mixture can lead to uneven filling. Ensure a smooth blend for creamy tacos.
- Skipping the Sauce: The sauce adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it complements the tacos beautifully.
- Frying at Low Temperature: Frying tacos in oil that’s not hot enough will result in soggy tortillas. Ensure your oil is hot before frying.
- Using Stale Tortillas: Fresh, pliable tortillas make a difference. Use freshly made or heated corn tortillas to prevent cracking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover cheesy potato tacos in an airtight container.
- They will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
- Wrap individual tacos tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
- Oven: Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Place tacos on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-12 minutes until crispy.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, but this may make them less crispy.
- Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, reheat tacos for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through and crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about cheesy potato tacos:
What are Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)?
Cheesy potato tacos are a delicious Mexican dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with cheese and spices, wrapped in corn tortillas, and fried until crispy.
Can I make Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days before assembling and frying the tacos.
What toppings go well with Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)?
You can top your tacos with queso fresco, shredded lettuce, pico de gallo, or salsa for extra flavor.
Are Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it does not contain any meat or animal-derived ingredients.
Can I bake instead of fry my Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)?
Yes! While frying gives them a delightful crunch, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) until golden brown and crispy.
Final Thoughts
These cheesy potato tacos are not only tasty but also versatile. You can customize them with your favorite toppings or even add different spices to suit your palate. Try this recipe today and enjoy a delightful twist on traditional taco night!
Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)
Indulge in the delightful taste of Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa), a unique twist on traditional tacos that promises to satisfy your cravings. These scrumptious tacos feature a crispy exterior and a creamy filling made from mashed potatoes, cheese, and a blend of spices, making them perfect for any gathering or casual dinner. With versatile toppings and an easy preparation process, these cheesy potato tacos are sure to impress family and friends alike.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 8 (16 tacos) 1x
Ingredients
- 2 lbs russet potatoes (peeled and chopped)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup queso fresco (crumbled)
- 16 corn tortillas
- 1 lb plum (roma) tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried Mexican oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup vegetable oil (for frying tacos)
- 2 tablespoons kosher salt (divided)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of water with 1 tablespoon salt to a boil. Add chopped potatoes. Cook until soft when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.
- Trim stem ends off tomatoes and make a ‘+’ sign on the opposite/bottom of each. Boil tomatoes in 3 cups of water for 10 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of cooking water. Peel tomatoes, transfer to a blender, and add garlic, cumin, oregano, pepper, salt, and one cup of cooking water. Puree until smooth.
- In the same saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add sauce; let it cook for 1 minute. Add remaining cooking water; simmer for about 5 minutes to reduce and thicken. Set aside.
- Drain cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, remaining tablespoon salt, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and cheese. Mash until combined; season with salt if needed.
- Wrap tortillas in two batches with paper towels. Heat in microwave for 10 seconds or on a hot skillet until soft to avoid cracking. Lay tortilla flat; fill half with about 2 tablespoons of mashed potatoes. Fold in half gently.
- Heat oil in a frying pan until very hot (dip edge of tortilla; if it sizzles, it’s ready). Using tongs, fry four tacos at a time for about 2 minutes or until golden brown on both sides. Remove from oil onto paper-towel lined plate; continue frying remaining tacos.
- Serve your cheesy potato tacos with sauce or toppings such as queso fresco, shredded cheese, iceberg lettuce, pico de gallo, or salsa. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tacos (150g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg