These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are the ultimate handheld comfort food! Filled with seasoned ground beef, melty cheese, and all your favorite taco toppings, these pocket tacos are perfect for a family dinner, game day, or any time you want a fun and satisfying meal. The cheese melts beautifully inside the crispy tortilla pocket, making every bite a delicious blend of flavors and textures.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 8 medium flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup sliced black olives
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ground Beef Filling
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and chopped onion. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft, about 5-6 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Assemble the Pocket Tacos
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a small amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese in the center of the tortilla.
- Spoon a portion of the ground beef mixture over the cheese.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla in towards the center, then fold the bottom and top edges in to create a sealed pocket.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas, beef mixture, and cheese.
Step 3: Cook the Pocket Tacos
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
- Place the pocket tacos seam-side down in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Work in batches if necessary, adding more oil as needed.
- Remove the cooked pocket tacos from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
Step 4: Serve
- Serve the loaded cheesy pocket tacos warm, topped with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sliced black olives, chopped green onions, and a dollop of sour cream.
- Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Tips & Notes
- Tortilla Choice: Use medium flour tortillas that are soft and pliable to make folding easier. If the tortillas are stiff, warm them in the microwave for a few seconds to make them more flexible.
- Cheese Blend: Feel free to use your favorite cheese blend. Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese also work well for added flavor.
- Filling Tip: Be careful not to overfill the tortillas, as it can make it difficult to seal them properly.
Variations
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for some heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
- Breakfast Pocket Tacos: Use scrambled eggs, cooked sausage or bacon, and cheese to make a delicious breakfast version of these pocket tacos.
- BBQ Beef Pocket Tacos: Mix barbecue sauce into the ground beef mixture for a smoky twist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make These Pocket Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can assemble the pocket tacos ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. When ready to eat, cook them in a skillet until golden and crispy.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover pocket tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their crispy texture.
3. Can I Freeze Pocket Tacos?
Absolutely! Wrap each uncooked pocket taco individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
4. What Can I Serve with Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos?
These pocket tacos are great on their own, but they also pair well with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a side of chips and guacamole.
Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a fun and delicious way to enjoy all the flavors of classic tacos in a convenient handheld form. The crispy tortilla, seasoned beef, and melty cheese make for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Customize the fillings to your liking and enjoy this easy-to-make dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
