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Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos – The Taco Night Game-Changer

Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos – The Taco Night Game-Changer

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  • Author: Emily
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings (1 taco pocket per person) 1x
  • Category: Main Course, Mexican-Inspired, Comfort Food
  • Method: Stovetop, Grilled, Cheesy
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are the ultimate fusion of tacos and cheesy bread pockets. Soft, warm tortillas are filled with a savory mix of seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and fresh toppings, then folded into pockets for a satisfying bite. Perfect for dinner, lunch, or a game-day snack, these cheesy tacos will become a family favorite!


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Taco Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey/chicken)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
  • 1/2 cup water (or as directed on taco seasoning packet)
  • 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Taco Pockets:

  • 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
  • 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro (optional)

For the Toppings:

  • Shredded lettuce
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Jalapeños (optional for added heat)
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up into crumbles, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat.

  2. Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning and water (according to the packet instructions), and simmer for 3-5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is fully combined. Add black beans and corn if using, and stir to incorporate. Remove from heat and set aside.

  3. Prepare the Cheese: Mix the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses in a small bowl.

  4. Assemble the Taco Pockets:

    • Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
    • Place a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Add a few spoonfuls of the taco filling in the center, then sprinkle generously with cheese. Fold the tortilla into a pocket, sealing the edges to form a closed pouch (you can lightly press down the edges with your fingers or use a bit of water to seal them tightly).
  5. Cook the Pockets: Brush each taco pocket with a little melted butter. Place them in the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted. (If you like, you can cook them in batches to avoid overcrowding.)

  6. Serve: Remove the taco pockets from the skillet and let them rest for a minute before cutting them in half. Serve warm with fresh toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, and a squeeze of lime.

  7. Optional Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness and flavor.


Notes

  • You can use soft taco-sized tortillas if you prefer smaller pockets.
  • If you prefer a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for cooked lentils or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu.
  • For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of taco sauce or hot sauce inside the pocket before sealing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 taco pocket
  • Calories: 450-500
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 25g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg