How to make Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos
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
Sour cream, salsa, green onions all toppings optional
Instructions for Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos
Crumble the ground beef into a skillet and cook thoroughly
Drain the grease from the skillet
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
Preheat the oven to 350*
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
Enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
YIELD: 12 SERVING SIZE: 1
Amount Per Serving: CALORIES: 364 | TOTAL FAT: 24g | SATURATED FAT: 13g | TRANS FAT: 0g | CHOLESTEROL: 72mg | SODIUM: 840mg | CARBOHYDRATES: 23g | FIBER: 2g | SUGAR: 2g | PROTEIN: 15g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground beef?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian alternatives like plant-based crumbles.
Are the toppings necessary or can I customize them?
The toppings mentioned in the recipe (sour cream, salsa, green onions) are optional. Feel free to customize the toppings according to your preference.
You can add lettuce, tomatoes, guacamole, or any other favorite taco toppings.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Certainly! While the recipe suggests using cheddar cheese, you can experiment with other types of cheese such as Monterey Jack, Colby, or a blend of different cheeses.
Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the flavors of the dish.
Can I freeze the Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked pocket tacos. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, separating the layers with parchment paper.
When ready to bake, allow them to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before baking as directed.
Are there any healthier ingredient substitutions I can make?
To make the recipe slightly healthier, you can opt for lean ground beef or turkey. You can also choose low-fat cream cheese and reduced-fat cheddar cheese.
Additionally, using whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas can add more fiber to the dish.
Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian option, replace the ground beef with a plant-based protein like black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute.
For a vegan version, use a vegan cheese alternative and substitute sour cream with a vegan alternative or guacamole.
How do I seal the Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos to prevent the filling from spilling out?
To seal the pocket tacos, fold the tortilla in half, enclosing the filling. Press down the edges to create a tight seal, and use a fork to crimp the edges together, ensuring a secure closure.
Alternatively, you can use a pastry or empanada press to create a perfect seal.
What kind of dipping sauces can I serve with this dish?
Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos can be enjoyed with a variety of dipping sauces to enhance their flavor.
Some popular options include salsa, guacamole, queso, sour cream, or even a spicy mayonnaise. Feel free to get creative and mix and match flavors to find your favorite combination!
Can I make my own taco seasoning instead of using a packet?
Absolutely! If you prefer to make your own taco seasoning, you can find various recipes online. It typically includes a combination of spices like chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and oregano.
Can I cook the pocket tacos without baking them?
If you prefer a different cooking method, you can try pan-frying the pocket tacos. Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the rolled tortillas until they are golden and crispy on each side. This method provides a different texture compared to baking.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the taco filling and assemble the pocket tacos in advance. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
However, it’s recommended to bake them just before serving for the best texture.