Description
Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are flavorful, crispy baked tortillas filled with seasoned ground beef, creamy salsa-infused cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for quick weeknight dinners or party snacks, delivering a satisfying combination of cheesy, savory, and tangy flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup salsa
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Assembly and Baking
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 6-inch tortillas
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook 1 pound of ground beef until browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess grease to keep the filling from becoming oily.
- Season the Beef: Add the taco seasoning packet to the beef according to the package instructions (typically adding a bit of water and simmering). Stir well to combine and let the flavors meld together.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Mix in ½ cup salsa thoroughly to create a flavorful and tangy spread.
- Assemble the Pocket Tacos: Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese and salsa mixture in the center, then add a portion of the seasoned ground beef on top. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
- Fold the Tortillas: Carefully fold the tortilla like a burrito, sealing the edges to enclose all the filling inside without spilling.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking tray with cooking spray or line with parchment paper.
- Bake the Pocket Tacos: Place the folded tortillas seam side down on the baking tray. Brush the tops with melted butter to encourage crisping and a golden color. Bake for about 15 minutes until the tortillas turn crispy and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. These pocket tacos pair well with fresh toppings like lettuce, sour cream, or extra salsa for added flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use 6-inch tortillas to keep the tacos easy to fold and evenly cooked inside.
- For extra crispiness, you can broil the tacos for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end of baking—watch carefully to avoid burning.
- Leftover tacos can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for the best texture instead of microwaving.
- Feel free to customize by adding jalapeños, diced onions, or avocado slices inside before baking.
- For a milder version, reduce or omit the salsa in the cream cheese mixture.
