Description
Mexican-inspired loaded taco-stuffed cheesy pockets promise flavor-packed delights with crisp tortillas and melted cheese. Diners will savor spicy meat, zesty salsa, and creamy textures in each satisfying bite.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein:
- 1 pound (454 grams) ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
Cheese:
- 8 ounces (227 grams) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (227 grams) cheddar cheese, shredded
Additional Ingredients:
- 12 6-inch tortillas
- 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) salsa
- 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare your workspace by heating the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly coating a baking sheet with non-stick spray.
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat, breaking it into small crumbles until fully cooked. Drain excess fat completely.
- Incorporate the taco seasoning into the beef, stirring thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly and create a robust flavor profile.
- Whip the softened cream cheese until silky smooth, then fold in salsa, blending until the mixture achieves a consistent, creamy texture.
- Lay out a tortilla and spread a generous layer of the cream cheese-salsa mixture in the center, leaving a small border around the edges.
- Layer seasoned beef over the cream cheese mixture, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese across the filling.
- Carefully fold the tortilla edges inward, creating a tight seal to prevent filling from escaping during baking.
- Position each rolled pocket seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- Brush the exterior of each pocket with melted butter to enhance golden browning and add richness.
- Bake for 15 minutes until the tortillas turn crisp and develop a beautiful golden-brown color.
- After removing from the oven, garnish with optional toppings like fresh lettuce, additional salsa, sour cream, sliced olives, or extra cheese.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the melty, flavor-packed taco pockets.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef or turkey for a healthier protein option that reduces overall fat content without compromising flavor.
- Swap regular tortillas with low-carb or whole wheat alternatives to increase nutritional value and accommodate different dietary preferences.
- Ensure even cooking by rolling tortillas tightly and placing them seam-side down to prevent filling from leaking during baking.
- Experiment with different salsa varieties like roasted, green, or fruit-based salsas to create unique flavor profiles and add exciting taste dimensions.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 24 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 28 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg