Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos Recipe

 

Here’s a delicious Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos recipe that’s crispy, cheesy, and packed with all your favorite taco toppings. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or even a fun weeknight meal!

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Ingredients (Serves 4-6)

For the taco filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade: 1 tsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, ½ tsp paprika, ½ tsp oregano, salt & pepper to taste)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
• 1/2 cup corn (optional)

For the cheesy pockets:

• 8 small flour tortillas (6–8 inches)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
• 1/4 cup cream cheese or shredded mozzarella (optional for extra gooeyness)

For serving (toppings):

• Sour cream
• Salsa or pico de gallo
• Sliced jalapeños
• Chopped lettuce or cilantro

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Instructions

1. Cook the filling:

   • Heat a skillet over medium heat and sauté the onion until soft, about 3 minutes.
   • Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
   • Add ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
   • Mix in black beans and corn, then remove from heat.

2. Assemble the pocket tacos:

   • Lay a tortilla flat. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheese in the center.
   • Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the taco filling on top of the cheese. Add a little more cheese on top of the filling.
   • Fold the tortilla in half to form a half-moon “pocket” and press edges gently.

3. Cook the pocket tacos:

   • Option 1 – Skillet: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat with a tiny bit of oil or cooking spray. Cook the pocket tacos 2–3 minutes per side until golden and crispy, and cheese is melted.
   • Option 2 – Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place pocket tacos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 8–10 minutes until crispy and cheese is melted.

4. Serve:

   • Let them cool for 1–2 minutes (hot cheese warning!).
   • Top with sour cream, salsa, jalapeños, and lettuce or cilantro.

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Tips & Variations

• Spicy: Add hot sauce or diced green chilies to the filling.
• Veggie version: Swap meat with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Extra cheesy: Mix shredded cheese with cream cheese inside the pocket for a super gooey center.
• Make ahead: Assemble and freeze before cooking. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

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If you want, I can also make a quick 20-minute version that’s extra cheesy and crispy without much prep—perfect for a snack attack!

Do you want me to do that?