Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are the ultimate handheld meal that’s filled with everything you love about tacos: seasoned beef, gooey cheese, fresh veggies, and all your favorite toppings, all tucked inside a soft pocket of dough. These pocket tacos are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a quick dinner or a fun party dish.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet (1 oz) taco seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 can (8 count) refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (optional)
- 1/2 cup sliced black olives (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
Toppings
- Sour cream
- Shredded lettuce
- Diced tomatoes
- Chopped cilantro
- Hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning and water to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let it simmer for 5 minutes or until the seasoning is well absorbed. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough
Unroll the crescent roll dough and separate it into 8 triangles. On the prepared baking sheet, place each triangle of dough flat, ensuring there’s enough space between each one for folding.
Step 4: Assemble the Pocket Tacos
Spoon a small amount of the seasoned ground beef onto the wide end of each crescent roll triangle. Top with a bit of shredded cheese, a teaspoon of salsa, chopped bell pepper, and sliced black olives (if using).
Fold the corners of each triangle over the filling, creating a sealed pocket. Pinch the edges together to ensure the filling stays inside while baking.
Step 5: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crescent dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve
Once baked, remove the Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve with sour cream, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped cilantro, and hot sauce if desired.
Cook Notes
- Sealing the Pockets: Make sure to pinch the edges of the crescent dough securely to avoid any filling leaking during baking.
- Cheese Options: Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend works well for this recipe.
- Extra Veggies: Feel free to add more veggies like corn, jalapeños, or diced onions for extra flavor and texture.
Variations
1. Chicken Pocket Tacos
Substitute the ground beef with shredded cooked chicken for a lighter variation. You can also use taco seasoning or fajita seasoning for the chicken.
2. Vegetarian Pocket Tacos
Replace the ground beef with a mixture of black beans and corn. Add extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
3. Spicy Pocket Tacos
Add diced jalapeños to the filling or mix in 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper with the taco seasoning for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or Mexican street corn salad for a complete meal.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of guacamole, queso dip, or salsa for dipping.
- Rice and Beans: Round out the meal with a side of Spanish rice and refried beans for a hearty dinner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the pocket tacos up to 4 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, just follow the baking instructions as usual.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover pocket tacos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I Use Other Types of Dough?
Yes, you can use puff pastry or pizza dough instead of crescent roll dough for a different texture. Adjust the baking time as needed.
Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a fun and easy way to enjoy all your favorite taco flavors in a handheld, cheesy pocket. Whether you make them for a weeknight dinner, a party, or just a tasty snack, these pocket tacos are sure to be a hit. Customize them with your favorite toppings, and enjoy the ultimate taco experience in every bite!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!
