If you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine, then you’ll love the loaded taco stuffed cheesy pockets. This dish is a delicious twist on traditional tacos, combining the flavors of taco-seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and zesty salsa, all encased in a crispy tortilla pocket. It’s a perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a fun weekend gathering with friends and family.
Making loaded taco stuffed cheesy pockets is easy and quick, taking only 35 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need ground beef, cream cheese, butter, Cheddar cheese, and taco seasoning mix, in addition to salsa and tortillas. The recipe is customizable, allowing you to add black beans, corn, or diced tomatoes to the filling for extra flavor and texture.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, loaded taco stuffed cheesy pockets are a great way to enjoy the flavors of Mexican cuisine in a fun and unique way. So why not give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with your culinary skills?
Ingredients
- 1 packet Taco Seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup salsa
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 12 6 inch tortillas
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Crumble the ground beef into a skillet and cook thoroughly over medium heat.
- Drain the grease from the skillet and add in the packet of Taco seasoning mix, following the directions on the package.
- In a medium sized bowl, beat the cream cheese until it is smooth.
- Add in the cup of salsa and blend well.
- While holding a tortilla, place a spoonful of cheese mix in the center of the tortilla.
- Place a spoonful of taco flavored beef, to cover the salsa and cheese mix.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese.
- Fold the tortilla and filling as you would with a burrito.
- Lightly spray a baking tray with non-stick spray.
- Place rolled tortilla onto greased tray.
- Brush the tops of the tortilla rolls with melted butter.
- Bake for 15 minutes.
- Remove from oven and add your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, salsa, sour cream, olives, more cheese.
Variations and Substitutions
Vegetarian Alternatives
If you prefer a vegetarian version of Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets, you can substitute the ground beef with plant-based protein like tofu, tempeh, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). You can also use a combination of black beans, corn, and diced vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can season the filling with taco seasoning mix or a blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, and salt. You can also add some cooked rice or quinoa for extra texture and nutrition. Make sure to drain any excess liquid from the filling before assembling the pockets.
Spice Adjustments
If you like your food spicy, you can increase the heat level of Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets by adding more chili powder, cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or diced jalapenos. You can also use a spicier variety of salsa or add some diced green chilies. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of taco seasoning mix or use a mild salsa. You can also add some sour cream or guacamole to balance the heat. Keep in mind that the cheese also adds some richness and creaminess to the dish, so adjust the spice level accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ingredients are needed to make Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets?
To make Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets, you will need ground beef, taco seasoning mix, cream cheese, shredded cheese, salsa, and 6-inch tortillas. You can also add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
Can I substitute ground turkey for beef in the Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version of the recipe. Ground turkey offers a leaner option while maintaining the delicious flavors.
What type of cheese works best for creating a melty filling in taco pockets?
Shredded cheddar cheese works well for creating a melty filling in taco pockets. You can also use a blend of shredded cheeses or Mexican cheese blend for added flavor.
Is there a way to make Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets with a vegetarian filling?
Yes, you can make vegetarian Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets by substituting the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or by using a filling made with beans, corn, and diced vegetables.
How long does it take to prepare and cook Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets?
The preparation time for Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets is around 20 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 15 minutes. The total time to prepare and cook the dish is about 35 minutes.
What are some serving suggestions for Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets?
Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets can be served with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or salsa for dipping. You can also serve them with a side salad or rice and beans for a complete meal. They make a great appetizer or snack for parties or game nights.
