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