Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) are a delightful and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. These tacos feature a crispy exterior with a creamy filling made from mashed potatoes, cheese, and spices, making them irresistible to anyone who tries them. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner or celebrating a festive event, these cheesy potato tacos are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these tacos in just 40 minutes.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of mashed potatoes, spices, and cheese creates a rich and satisfying flavor that everyone will enjoy.
• Versatile Options: Customize your tacos with various toppings like pico de gallo or shredded lettuce to suit your taste.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, these cheesy potato tacos appeal to both adults and kids alike.
• Comfort Food: Enjoy the warmth and comfort of these tasty tacos on any chilly evening.

Tools and Preparation

Getting ready to make cheesy potato tacos is easy with the right tools. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delightful dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Saucepan
• Blender
• Frying pan
• Tongs
• Paper towels

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling the potatoes evenly until soft.
• Blender: Ensures your tomato sauce is smooth and well-mixed for maximum flavor.
• Frying pan: Crucial for achieving that golden crunch on your tacos.

Ingredients

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

For the 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 Tacos

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

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

How to Make Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes

Start by bringing a large pot of water mixed with 1 tablespoon of salt to a boil.
– Add the chopped russet potatoes.
– Cook over medium heat until soft when pierced with a fork, about 15 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

While the potatoes are cooking, prepare the sauce.
– Trim the stem end off each tomato and make a + sign on the opposite bottom.
– In a saucepan, boil tomatoes in 3 cups of water for 10 minutes. Reserve 2 cups of this cooking water.
– Peel tomatoes, transfer them to a blender, add garlic, cumin, oregano, pepper, salt, and one cup of reserved cooking water. Blend until smooth.

Step 3: Cook the Sauce

In the same saucepan used for boiling tomatoes:
– Heat oil over medium heat.
– Add your blended sauce mixture 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 Potato Filling

Drain your boiled potatoes back into the pot:
– Add butter, remaining tablespoon of salt, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, and queso fresco.
– Mash everything together until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Warm Tortillas

Wrap tortillas in two batches with paper towels:
– Heat in microwave for 10 seconds or warm on a skillet until soft enough to fold without cracking.
– Lay each tortilla flat; fill half with about 2 tablespoons of mashed potato filling. Fold gently in half.

Step 6: Frying Tacos

Heat vegetable oil in a frying pan until hot:
– Test readiness by dipping an edge of a tortilla; if it sizzles, it’s ready.
– Using tongs, carefully 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.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your cheesy potato tacos warm with optional toppings like queso fresco or salsa for added flavor!

How to Serve Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Cheesy potato tacos are versatile and can be served with various toppings and sides. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your taco experience.

Fresh Toppings

• Queso Fresco: Crumbled cheese adds a creamy texture and enhances flavor.
• Shredded Lettuce: Crisp lettuce provides a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft potatoes.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh salsa of tomatoes, onions, and cilantro for a burst of flavor.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream brings richness and balances the spices.

Sauces

• Tomatillo Salsa: This tangy salsa complements the cheesy potatoes beautifully.
• Chipotle Sauce: Adds a smoky kick that pairs well with the creamy filling.
• Avocado Sauce: Creamy avocado sauce adds a smooth texture and rich flavor.

How to Perfect Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

Making perfect cheesy potato tacos requires attention to detail. Follow these tips for the best results.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh potatoes and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Potatoes: Boil them just until fork-tender to maintain a good texture when mashing.
• Heat Tortillas Properly: Make sure tortillas are warm and pliable to prevent tearing when filling.
• Maintain Oil Temperature: Ensure oil is hot enough for frying; this prevents soggy tacos and ensures crispiness.

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

To complete your meal, consider pairing your cheesy potato tacos with these delicious side dishes.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice cooked with tomatoes and spices makes a great companion.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Grilled Corn Salad: Sweet corn mixed with lime juice and herbs adds freshness to your plate.
4. Cabbage Slaw: Crunchy slaw dressed in lime offers brightness and balance to the meal.
5. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the flavors of the tacos perfectly.
6. Chips and Salsa: Crispy tortilla chips served with fresh salsa are always a crowd-pleaser.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) can be a delightful experience, but it’s important to avoid common pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Potatoes: When boiling potatoes, overcooked potatoes can become too mushy. Cook them until just tender for the best texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to season your mashed potatoes can lead to bland tacos. Incorporate spices like cumin and paprika for added flavor.
• Using Cold Tortillas: Cold tortillas can crack when folded. Warm them up in a microwave or on a skillet to keep them pliable.
• Not Draining Properly: Ensure that you drain the cooked potatoes well. Excess moisture can make your filling soggy and difficult to work with.
• Frying at Low Temperature: Frying tacos in oil that is not hot enough will result in greasy tacos instead of crispy ones. Test the oil before frying by dropping in a small piece of tortilla; it should sizzle immediately.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

• Wrap tacos individually in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but note they won’t be as crispy.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook each taco for about 2-3 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa)?

Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) are crunchy corn tortillas filled with creamy, seasoned mashed potatoes and cheese, making them a perfect comfort food.

How do I customize my Cheesy Potato Tacos?

You can customize your tacos by adding different toppings such as sour cream, avocado, or salsa. You can also mix in other ingredients like black beans or corn into the filling.

Can I make Cheesy Potato Tacos ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the potato filling ahead of time and assemble the tacos just before frying them for freshness.

What sides pair well with Cheesy Potato Tacos?

Serve these tacos with sides like Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad. They complement each other beautifully!

Are Cheesy Potato Tacos vegetarian?

Yes! These tacos are vegetarian-friendly as they are made with plant-based ingredients.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Potato Tacos (Tacos de Papa) are not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding different spices or toppings according to your taste. Whether you’re preparing them for dinner or a casual gathering, these tacos are sure to impress everyone at the table. Give them a try today!