Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets are a delicious and convenient handheld meal that combines seasoned ground beef, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese all wrapped in soft flour tortillas. These pockets are perfect for a quick dinner, a game-day snack, or a fun appetizer. With a crispy exterior and a gooey, flavorful filling, they are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Let’s dive into this tasty recipe and learn how to make Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
- 12 small flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Sour cream, for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef
- Brown Beef:
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Break the beef into crumbles as it cooks.
- Add Taco Seasoning:
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning according to the package instructions (usually with water) and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked ground beef, cream cheese, salsa, and grated cheddar cheese. Mix until well combined and the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Assemble the Taco Pockets
- Fill Tortillas:
- Lay out the small flour tortillas on a flat surface. Place about 2-3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each tortilla.
- Fold Tortillas:
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom up and roll tightly into a pocket shape, similar to a burrito. Make sure the ends are sealed to prevent the filling from leaking out.
Step 4: Cook the Taco Pockets
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Brush with Butter:
- Place the taco pockets seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve
- Serve with Sour Cream:
- Serve the Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets hot, with sour cream on the side for dipping. Enjoy these tasty and cheesy pockets with your favorite toppings!
Cooking Notes and Tips
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef to reduce excess fat. You can also substitute with ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
- Cheese: Use freshly grated cheddar cheese for the best melting quality. You can also use a Mexican blend cheese for additional flavor.
- Tortillas: Small flour tortillas are ideal for handheld pockets. If using larger tortillas, adjust the amount of filling and baking time accordingly.
Variations
Spicy Beef Taco Pockets
- Add Jalapeños:
- Stir in 1/4 cup of diced jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra heat.
Veggie Taco Pockets
- Add Vegetables:
- Add 1/2 cup of sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or corn to the filling for added flavor and nutrition.
Breakfast Taco Pockets
- Add Eggs:
- Stir in scrambled eggs to the beef mixture for a breakfast version. Top with avocado slices before folding.
Serving Suggestions
With Dips
- With Salsa:
- Serve with additional salsa or guacamole for dipping.
- With Queso:
- Pair with warm queso dip for a cheesy complement.
With Sides
- With Salad:
- Serve with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- With Rice:
- Pair with Spanish rice or a simple side of rice and beans.
Beverages
- With Soda:
- Enjoy with a cold soda or iced tea for a refreshing drink.
- With Margaritas:
- Serve with margaritas or a chilled beer for a festive touch.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these taco pockets ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the taco pockets up to a day in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and bake just before serving.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover taco pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze these taco pockets? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled but unbaked taco pockets. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas? A: Corn tortillas can be used but they may not fold and seal as easily. You might need to warm them to make them more pliable.
Q: Can I make a vegetarian version? A: Yes, substitute the ground beef with a meatless ground beef alternative or use a mixture of sautéed vegetables and beans.
Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets are a delicious and convenient meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With their crispy exterior and gooey, flavorful filling, these pockets are sure to be a hit. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or try one of the variations, this dish is easy to make and always satisfying. Enjoy making and sharing these tasty Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets with your family and friends!
