Name: Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) ground beef; 1 packet (1 ounce/28g) taco seasoning; 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened; ½ cup (120ml) salsa; 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese; 12 small (6-inch/15cm) flour tortillas; 2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted; Optional toppings: sour cream, additional salsa, chopped green onions

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If you love tacos but want something a little more fun and handheld, these Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are the perfect answer. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside—these tacos are a game-changer for weeknight dinners or party snacks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Handheld and fun to eat – Great for kids and adults alike.
Loaded with cheese – A gooey, melty cheese center makes these irresistible.
Crispy and flavorful – A perfectly golden crust adds the right crunch.
Great for meal prep – Make ahead and freeze for later.

Ingredients

Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll need:

Ground beef or chicken
Taco seasoning
Tortillas
Cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
Salsa
Sour cream
Green onions
Butter or oil for frying

Full list of ingredients and exact measurements are below.

Directions

1. Cook the Filling

Brown the ground beef or chicken in a skillet. Add taco seasoning and salsa, then let it simmer.

2. Prep the Tortillas

Warm the tortillas slightly so they are pliable and easier to fold.

3. Add the Cheese and Filling

Place a generous amount of shredded cheese and a spoonful of taco filling onto each tortilla.

4. Fold and Seal

Fold the tortillas in half, pressing the edges to seal. You can use a little water or melted cheese to help them stay closed.

5. Cook Until Crispy

Heat butter or oil in a pan and cook each taco pocket until golden brown and crispy on both sides.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve with sour cream, extra salsa, or your favorite taco toppings.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Use fresh tortillas – They’re more flexible and won’t crack when folding.
Don’t overfill – Too much filling can cause them to burst while cooking.
Press the edges well – Ensures they stay sealed during frying.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap ground beef for shredded chicken or black beans for a vegetarian option.
Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra spice.
Try different cheeses like pepper jack for a kick.
Use flour or corn tortillas depending on your preference.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pair these tacos with a side of guacamole, a fresh salad, or Mexican rice. They also go great with a refreshing drink like a lime margarita or iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a pan or air fryer to keep them crispy.
Freeze uncooked tacos for up to 2 months, then cook straight from frozen.

FAQs

1. Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crispiness.

2. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Be sure not to overfill and press the edges well to seal them properly.

3. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble them ahead and store in the fridge until ready to cook.

4. What’s the best cheese for these tacos?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend work great for maximum meltiness.

Conclusion

Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are the ultimate handheld comfort food. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, a party snack, or meal prep, these crispy, cheesy tacos are sure to be a hit!

Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos

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Indulge in these Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos, a delightful fusion of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, all encased in a crispy tortilla shell. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun gathering, these pockets are sure to satisfy your taco cravings.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 12 pockets 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound (450g) ground beef
1 packet (1 ounce/28g) taco seasoning
8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup (120ml) salsa
1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
12 small (6-inch/15cm) flour tortillas
2 tablespoons (30g) unsalted butter, melted
Optional toppings: sour cream, additional salsa, chopped green onions

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Instructions

Prepare the Filling:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning to the beef, following the packet instructions for seasoning. Stir well to combine.
- In a separate bowl, mix the softened cream cheese and salsa until smooth and well combined.
Assemble the Pockets:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Lay out each tortilla and spread a spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center.
- Top with a portion of the seasoned ground beef and sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly to form a pocket. Place each pocket seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Bake:
- Brush the tops of the pockets with melted butter to enhance browning.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 15 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish with optional toppings like sour cream, additional salsa, or chopped green onions, if desired.

Notes

Variations: Feel free to substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or a plant-based meat alternative.
Spice Level: Adjust the heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot salsa, and consider adding chopped jalapeños for extra kick.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.