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If you’re a fan of Taco Bell’s bold flavors and crave something hearty yet vegetarian, the Spicy Potato Taco is a must-try. Packed with crispy seasoned potatoes, creamy sauces, and fresh toppings, this taco hits the spot every time.
Whether you’re a Taco Bell regular or just looking for a tasty meat-free option, the Spicy Potato Taco offers a delicious blend of textures and flavors that are hard to resist. In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this fan-favorite taco, from its taste to how to make your own at home!
What Does Taco Bell Potato Taco Taste Like?
Taco Bell’s Spicy Potato Taco offers a flavorful combination of crispy, seasoned potatoes with a satisfying crunch. The potatoes are seasoned with a smoky, slightly spicy blend of chili powder and other spices. Combined with creamy chipotle sauce, shredded lettuce, and cheese, the taco delivers a balanced mix of savory, spicy, and creamy flavors.
The soft flour tortilla wraps everything together, offering a soft texture that contrasts nicely with the crispy potatoes. Overall, it’s a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option with a mild to medium level of heat.
Ingredients Required for Taco Bell Potato Taco Recipe
Here’s the list of Ingredients you’ll need to make this Taco Bell Potato Tacos
For the Potatoes
- 4 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust based on spice preference)
- Salt, to taste
- Vegetable oil (enough for deep frying, about 4-5 cups depending on the size of your pot)
For Assembly
- 4-6 soft flour tortillas (gluten-free or regular, 6-inch size)
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup shredded cheese (plant-based or regular)
- Taco Bell hot sauce packets (optional, or any hot sauce you prefer)
Kitchen Utensil You’ll Need
- Knife and Cutting Board
- Pot and Strainer
- Deep Frying Pan
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
How to Make Taco Bell Potato Taco
Simply follow the steps given below to make your Copycat Taco Bell Potato Taco at home
Step 1: Prepping the Potatoes
Peel your potatoes, then dice them into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Rinse and pat them dry—wet potatoes + hot oil = fireworks (and not the fun kind). In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt.
Step 2: Frying Time
Coat your potato cubes in this mix for that crispy, seasoned crunch. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot or fryer. Fry the potatoes in batches for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as overcooking will lead to bitterness.
Step 3: Tortilla Time
Lightly toast your tortillas over an open flame or skillet for a smoky touch. No utensils here—flip with your hands like a pro (and avoid getting yelled at by any nearby abuelas).
Step 4: Assemble the Tacos
Spread a generous dollop of chipotle sauce. Pile on the crispy, golden nuggets of joy. Sprinkle vegan cheese, a handful of lettuce, and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce (Diablo and Fire packets for that Taco Bell authenticity).
Some Tasty Ways To Arrange and Serve This Taco Bell Potato Tacos
1. Add Avocado or Guacamole: For a creamy twist, top the tacos with freshly sliced avocado or homemade guacamole to balance the spice with some richness.
2. Vegan Version: Replace the cheese with dairy-free alternatives like vegan cheddar, and use a plant-based sour cream or cashew cream to make these tacos fully vegan.
3. Add Pickled Red Onions: Pickled red onions provide a tangy contrast that complements the spiciness of the potatoes and adds extra crunch to the tacos.
4. Top with Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and brightness. Sprinkle it on top for a fragrant herbal touch.
5. Spicy Jalapeños: For an extra kick, add freshly sliced jalapeños, or even try pickled jalapeños for a tangy heat boost.
6. Cheese Variations: Experiment with different types of cheese like crumbled queso fresco, Monterey Jack, or a spicy jalapeño cheddar to give the tacos a unique twist.
7. Add Sautéed Vegetables: Sauté bell peppers, onions, or zucchini to add a savory, tender element to your tacos. This will give you more texture and flavor depth.
8. Crunchy Slaw: A quick cabbage slaw with lime juice and a dash of chili powder can add crunch and a zesty flavor, complementing the creamy potatoes.
9. Use Soft or Hard Shells: While the recipe calls for soft tortillas, you can use hard taco shells for added crunch. You could even layer soft and hard shells for a double-layered texture.
10. Serve with a Side of Mexican Rice or Beans: Pair the tacos with a side of seasoned Mexican rice or black beans to make it a more filling meal. You can also add a side of salsa or salsa verde for extra dipping options.
These customizations will give you more ways to enjoy your Taco Bell Spicy Potato Tacos, making them versatile for different tastes and dietary preferences!
Some Tips on This Taco Bell Potato Taco Recipe
1. Cut Potatoes Evenly: Ensure the potato cubes are of equal size (about ½-inch) to cook evenly and get a crispy, golden texture.
2. Soak Potatoes: After cutting, soak the potatoes in cold water for 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps them fry crispier. Pat dry completely before coating.
3. Double Fry for Extra Crispiness: Fry the potatoes at a lower temperature (around 325°F) to cook them through, then fry again at a higher temperature (375°F) for a crispy outer layer.
4. Season Immediately After Frying: Sprinkle salt and seasonings on the potatoes right after frying while they’re still hot to help the flavors stick.
5. Blend the Sauce for Smoothness: Use a blender or food processor for the chipotle sauce to ensure it’s silky smooth and well-mixed.
6. Adjust Sauce Spice Level: If you prefer less heat, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or add more sour cream/mayo to tone it down. For extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne or extra adobo sauce.
7. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or directly over a gas flame for a few seconds. This makes them more pliable and enhances the flavor.
8. Layer Properly: Spread the chipotle sauce on the tortilla first to create a barrier, preventing the potatoes from making the tortilla soggy. Then add lettuce, potatoes, and cheese.
9. Use Fresh Ingredients: Crisp lettuce and freshly shredded cheese make a noticeable difference in texture and taste.
10. Serve Immediately: Assemble and serve the tacos immediately after frying the potatoes for the best texture and flavor. Leftover potatoes can lose their crispness if stored too long.
How to Store and Reheat this Potato Tacos
To store, wrap each taco tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 2 days. For reheating, preheat an oven to 350°F (175°C), place wrapped tacos on a baking tray, and heat for 10-15 minutes.
Alternatively, microwave unwrapped tacos on a plate for 30-60 seconds, adding fresh toppings afterward for the best taste.
Taco Bell Potato Taco Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 medium-sized potatoes peeled and cubed into ½-inch pieces
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust based on spice preference
- Salt to taste
- Vegetable oil enough for deep frying, about 4-5 cups depending on the size of your pot
- 4-6 soft flour tortillas gluten-free or regular, 6-inch size
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup shredded cheese plant-based or regular
- Taco Bell hot sauce packets
Instructions
- Peel your potatoes, then dice them into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking. Rinse and pat them dry—wet potatoes + hot oil = fireworks (and not the fun kind). In a bowl, combine flour, garlic powder, paprika, cayenne, and a pinch of salt.
- Coat your potato cubes in this mix for that crispy, seasoned crunch. Heat your oil to 350°F (175°C) in a deep pot or fryer. Fry the potatoes in batches for 10-12 minutes until golden brown. Keep an eye on them, as overcooking will lead to bitterness.
- Lightly toast your tortillas over an open flame or skillet for a smoky touch. No utensils here—flip with your hands like a pro (and avoid getting yelled at by any nearby abuelas).
- Spread a generous dollop of chipotle sauce. Pile on the crispy, golden nuggets of joy. Sprinkle vegan cheese, a handful of lettuce, and a drizzle of your favorite hot sauce (Diablo and Fire packets for that Taco Bell authenticity).
Video
Notes
Common Queries on This Taco Bell Potato Taco Recipe
Here, we’ve got you covered with some common questions about the Taco Bell Potato Taco Recipe that people often ask.
1. What is on a Taco Bell potato taco?
A Taco Bell Spicy Potato Taco features crispy seasoned potato bites, shredded lettuce, shredded cheddar cheese, creamy chipotle sauce, and is wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. It’s a flavorful vegetarian option with a spicy kick from the potatoes and sauce.
2. Are Taco Bell potato tacos healthy?
While Taco Bell’s Spicy Potato Tacos can be a satisfying choice for vegetarians, they are typically considered indulgent because of the fried potatoes and cheese. The healthiness of the taco depends on portion size and any customizations like adding extra veggies or omitting cheese. For a healthier option, you can opt for fewer toppings or replace some ingredients with lighter alternatives.
3. What happened to Taco Bell potatoes?
Taco Bell temporarily removed potatoes from their menu in 2020 as part of a menu overhaul, but they returned in 2021 due to popular demand. The return of the potatoes meant that customers could once again enjoy beloved items like the Spicy Potato Soft Taco and the Potato Bites.
4. What is Taco Bell soft taco made of?
Taco Bell’s soft taco is typically made from a soft flour tortilla that is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as seasoned beef, chicken, or potatoes, along with toppings like shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream or other sauces. The soft tortilla gives the taco a tender texture, making it a lighter alternative to hard taco shells.
5. Can I make Taco Bell’s Spicy Potato Tacos vegan?
Yes! You can make Taco Bell’s Spicy Potato Tacos vegan by using plant-based cheese and sour cream alternatives. Replace the dairy ingredients with vegan options, and you’ll have a completely vegan version of the taco.
6. How do I make the potatoes crispy like Taco Bell’s?
To achieve crispy potatoes like Taco Bell’s, use small diced potatoes and fry them in oil until golden brown. Toss them in a seasoning mix of chili powder, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper to match the flavor profile of Taco Bell’s potatoes.
7. Can I use a hard taco shell instead of a soft tortilla?
Absolutely! If you prefer a crunchier texture, you can substitute a hard taco shell for the soft flour tortilla. This will give you a different experience, but still delicious with the same potato filling.
8. What sauces can I use for Taco Bell Spicy Potato Tacos?
Taco Bell’s Spicy Potato Tacos use a creamy chipotle sauce, but you can also experiment with other sauces like salsa verde, avocado ranch, or even hot sauce to customize the flavor to your liking.
9. Can I make the potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the seasoned potatoes ahead of time. Once cooked and crispy, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to regain their crispiness before assembling the tacos.
10. How spicy are Taco Bell Spicy Potato Tacos?
The spiciness of Taco Bell’s Spicy Potato Tacos mainly comes from the chipotle sauce and the seasoning on the potatoes. While it’s a medium level of heat, you can adjust the spice by adding more or less sauce or switching to a milder sauce if preferred.
This recipe is a testament to the joy of cooking at home, experimenting with flavors, and sometimes turning chaos into something delicious. Whether you’re a Taco Bell aficionado or simply love potatoes, this one’s for you.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to dream up new recipes. Until next time, happy cooking—and remember, always taco ’bout it. 🌮
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So easy and looks delicious
Thanks