Crispy Potato Tacos with Cheese and Chili

Crispy Potato Tacos with Cheese and Chili are a delicious, satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. These tacos combine golden, crispy potatoes with melted cheese and a spicy kick from chili sauce or hot peppers. Refried beans add richness, while warm tortillas hold it all together.

Quick and easy to prepare, they can be customized with garnishes like cilantro, tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime for a fresh finish. Whether you’re craving a vegetarian taco or simply something tasty and comforting, these tacos are sure to hit the spot!

Crispy Potato Tacos with Cheese and Chili

Ingredients:

500 grams (1 lb) diced potatoes

1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese

Spicy sauce or chopped hot peppers (adjust to taste)

4-6 soft flour tortillas

1 can (or 2 cups) refried beans

Cooking oil

Salt and pepper (as needed)

Finely chopped onions (optional, for added flavor)

1 clove minced garlic (optional)

Instructions:

Cook the Potatoes:

Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.

Add the diced potatoes, season with salt and pepper, and fry until they become crispy and golden (about 10-15 minutes). If using onions and garlic, add them halfway through cooking to prevent overcooking.

Add Peppers and Cheese:

When the potatoes are almost done, stir in the spicy sauce or hot peppers.

Sprinkle the shredded cheese over the potatoes and allow it to melt. You can cover the pan briefly to help the cheese melt evenly.

Heat the Refried Beans:

While the potatoes are cooking, warm up the refried beans in a saucepan or microwave. Add a little water or oil if they need to be smoother.

Assemble the Tacos:

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft.

Spread refried beans on each tortilla, then top with the cheesy potato and pepper mixture.

Fold and serve while hot.

Optional Garnish:

For an extra burst of flavor, top the tacos with cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of lime juice.

Enjoy!

Notes:

Tortilla Options: You can use soft flour tortillas, but corn tortillas will give a more traditional, crisp texture when lightly fried.

Cheese Choices: Cheddar and mozzarella work great, but for an authentic Mexican touch, try using queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese.

Add-Ins: Feel free to include extras like sautéed onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for more flavor and texture.

Crispy Potatoes: For extra crispiness, fry the diced potatoes in batches and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Refried Beans: Homemade refried beans can add a richer flavor compared to canned ones, but either works well in this recipe.

Garnishes: Fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and lime juice brighten the flavors and balance the heat from the chili.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 4 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, you can use any cheese you prefer. Cheddar and mozzarella are great choices for melting, but you could also use Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack, or a cheese blend.

Can I make these tacos with sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Absolutely! Sweet potatoes work well and will add a slightly different flavor.

Just cook them until crispy, similar to regular potatoes.

What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

You can use corn tortillas if you prefer.

They will have a different texture but will still work well with the filling.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Ensure that your refried beans are vegetarian (some brands use lard).

You can also omit the cheese if you want a dairy-free option and use a vegan cheese substitute.

Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the potato and cheese mixture ahead of time.

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Reheat before assembling the tacos.

How do I make the tacos spicier?

Increase the amount of spicy sauce or chopped hot peppers.

You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the potato mixture for extra heat.

Can I freeze the cooked tacos?

It’s best to freeze the filling separately from the tortillas.

Once cooked and cooled, the potato mixture can be frozen in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Reheat before serving.

How can I make these tacos gluten-free?

Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure that the refried beans and other ingredients are gluten-free.

What can I use as a substitute for refried beans?

You can use black beans, pinto beans, or even mashed avocado as a substitute for refried beans.

Can I add other toppings to these tacos?

Definitely! You can add diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or a drizzle of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added flavor.