Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets

These Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets are a delightful combination of seasoned beef, creamy cheese, and salsa, all wrapped in a crispy tortilla. Perfect for a quick dinner or a party appetizer, these cheesy pockets are sure to be a hit with everyone. Let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need to create these flavorful pockets.

INGREDIENTS

• Taco Seasoning: 1 packet, used to season the ground beef, giving it that classic taco flavor.
• Ground Beef: 1 pound, cooked thoroughly and seasoned with taco seasoning for a savory filling.
• Salsa: ½ cup, mixed with cream cheese to add a tangy, flavorful layer to the pockets.
• Cream Cheese: 8 ounces, softened and blended with salsa to create a creamy, rich filling.
• Melted Butter: 2 tablespoons, brushed on top of the tortillas before baking for a golden, crispy finish.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup, shredded and added to the filling for a gooey, cheesy texture.
• Tortillas: 12 (6-inch) tortillas, used to wrap the delicious filling into perfect pockets.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a baking tray with non-stick spray and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, crumble the ground beef and cook it thoroughly until browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Season the Beef

1. Add the taco seasoning packet to the cooked ground beef, following the package directions. Stir well to ensure the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the beef.

Step 4: Prepare the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium-sized bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the salsa to the cream cheese and blend well until the mixture is thoroughly combined.

Step 5: Assemble the Pockets

1. Hold a tortilla flat in your hand. Place a spoonful of the cream cheese and salsa mixture in the center of the tortilla.
2. Add a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef on top of the cheese mixture, ensuring the filling covers the salsa and cheese mix.
3. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese over the beef, adding a cheesy layer to the pocket.
4. Fold the tortilla as you would a burrito, tucking in the sides and rolling it up to enclose the filling securely.

Step 6: Bake the Pockets

1. Place the rolled tortillas seam-side down on the prepared baking tray. Brush the tops of the tortilla rolls with melted butter to help them achieve a golden, crispy finish in the oven.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.

Step 7: Serve

1. Remove the taco-stuffed cheesy pockets from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
2. Add your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, additional salsa, sour cream, olives, or more shredded cheese.
3. Serve warm and enjoy your Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets!

Serving and Storage Tips

Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets are best served hot, right out of the oven, with the cheese still gooey and the tortillas crispy. These pockets make for a satisfying meal on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or some tortilla chips and guacamole. They’re perfect for a casual dinner, game day, or as a party appetizer.

To store leftovers, allow the pockets to cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pockets in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the tortillas soggy.

Helpful Notes

This recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste. You can swap out the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or tofu. If you prefer a spicier filling, add some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the beef mixture. For an extra cheesy experience, add more shredded cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack.

You can also experiment with different toppings, such as chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, or pickled jalapeños, to add freshness and flavor to the dish. If you have leftovers, these pockets are great for meal prep and can be easily reheated for a quick lunch or dinner.

Tips from well-known chefs

Chef Bobby Flay suggests grilling the tortillas lightly before assembling the pockets for added flavor and a slight char that complements the filling.

Chef Rick Bayless recommends using homemade salsa for a fresher, more authentic taste. If time allows, consider making your own salsa to elevate the flavor of the dish.

Chef Ina Garten advises letting the cream cheese come to room temperature before mixing, as this ensures a smoother, creamier filling that blends better with the other ingredients.