Description
Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make snack featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy salsa-infused cream cheese, and shredded cheddar, all folded inside warm tortillas and baked until golden and crispy. Perfect for parties or a quick family meal, these tacos combine creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors in every bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 pound ground beef
- ½ cup salsa
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 12 6-inch tortillas
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to keep the mixture from becoming too oily.
- Season the Beef: Add the packet of taco seasoning to the cooked beef according to the package instructions, stirring thoroughly to ensure even seasoning throughout.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then fold in the salsa to add zest and moisture to the mixture.
- Assemble the Tacos: Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface and spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese and salsa mixture in the center. Top this with a portion of the seasoned beef, and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Fold the Tortillas: Carefully fold the tortilla over the fillings like a burrito, making sure to seal the edges to prevent the filling from leaking out during baking.
- Prepare for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a baking tray with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Bake the Pocket Tacos: Place the folded tortillas on the prepared tray, brush each with melted butter for a crispy golden crust, and bake for about 15 minutes or until the tacos are crisp and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove the tacos from the oven and serve hot with your choice of toppings such as fresh lettuce, sour cream, or additional salsa for extra flavor and freshness.
Notes
- Using softened cream cheese makes it easier to blend with the salsa smoothly.
- Make sure to drain the beef well to avoid soggy pockets during baking.
- Brush the tortillas with butter before baking to achieve a crispy, golden texture.
- These tacos can be assembled ahead of time and baked just before serving for convenience.
- Feel free to customize the fillings with additional ingredients like black beans or corn for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
