Description
These Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets combine seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to golden perfection. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a crowd-pleasing appetizer.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 8 ounces (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 small (6-inch) flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
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Prepare the Filling:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning mix to the beef, following the package instructions (typically adding water and simmering until the mixture thickens).
- Remove from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.
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Combine Cream Cheese and Salsa:
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in the salsa until well combined.
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Assemble the Pockets:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
- Lay out a tortilla and spread a spoonful of the cream cheese and salsa mixture in the center.
- Add a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture on top of the cream cheese layer.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly to form a pocket.
- Place the pocket seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
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Bake:
- Brush the tops of the pockets with melted butter to help them crisp up and turn golden.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
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Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Optional: Serve with additional salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes
- Variations: Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like black beans, corn, diced bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain crispness.
- Make-Ahead: These pockets can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. If baking from chilled, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.