Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ For the Beef Filling
01 -
1 pound ground beef (80/20 recommended for flavor)
02 -
1 packet taco seasoning (1-1.25 oz)
03 -
2/3 cup water
→ For the Creamy Base
04 -
8 ounces cream cheese, softened to room temperature
05 -
1/2 cup salsa (mild, medium, or hot based on preference)
→ For Assembly
06 -
12 flour tortillas (6-inch size)
07 -
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
08 -
2 tablespoons butter, melted
→ Optional Serving Suggestions
09 -
Sour cream
10 -
Additional salsa
11 -
Guacamole
12 -
Shredded lettuce
13 -
Diced tomatoes
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
02 -
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, cook ground beef, breaking it up as it browns until no pink remains (5-7 minutes). Drain excess fat, leaving a small amount for flavor.
03 -
Add taco seasoning and 2/3 cup water. Stir to combine, bring to a simmer and cook 3-4 minutes until most liquid has evaporated, creating a moist mixture. Remove from heat.
04 -
In a medium bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add salsa and mix until well combined.
05 -
Briefly warm tortillas by wrapping in slightly damp paper towels and microwaving for 30 seconds, or heating individually in a dry skillet for a few seconds per side.
06 -
Spread 1 tablespoon of cream cheese mixture across center of each tortilla. Top with 2 tablespoons of seasoned beef and 1 tablespoon of shredded cheddar.
07 -
Fold bottom edge of tortilla up over filling, then fold in both sides. Roll upward to form a sealed pocket. Place seam-side down on prepared baking sheet.
08 -
Brush tops and sides of assembled pockets lightly with melted butter to promote browning and crispy texture.
09 -
Bake in preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, until golden brown and crispy with fully melted cheese inside.
10 -
Remove from oven and let cool 2-3 minutes before serving. Offer with optional toppings as desired.
# Notes:
01 -
The 80/20 ground beef provides optimal flavor, but leaner options can be substituted if preferred.
02 -
Warming the tortillas before filling prevents cracking and makes them more pliable for folding.
03 -
The pockets can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake.