These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a fun and delicious twist on the classic taco. Soft, fluffy pockets filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings make these pockets a hit at any meal. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving at parties, family dinners, or casual gatherings.
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Cheesy & Flavorful: Loaded with melty cheese and seasoned beef, these taco pockets are packed with flavor.
- Fun to Eat: The taco pockets are handheld, making them a fun and easy option for kids and adults alike.
- Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these pockets come together in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or pizza dough if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Salsa (optional, for serving)
- Chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup jalapeño slices (optional, for added heat)
Tools You’ll Need:
- Skillet
- Baking sheet
- Spoon for filling the pockets
- Pastry brush (optional, for brushing with egg wash)
How to Make Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos:
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is fully combined.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
- Unroll the crescent roll dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Pinch the perforations together to form one large sheet of dough, or use pizza dough for a thicker pocket.
- Cut the dough into 4-6 rectangles, depending on how large you want the taco pockets.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Pockets
- Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each dough rectangle.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Fold the dough over to create a pocket, sealing the edges by pinching them together.
Step 5: Bake the Pockets
- Brush the top of each pocket with a bit of beaten egg (optional) for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the pockets are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.
- Top each pocket with chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream. You can also drizzle with salsa or hot sauce for added flavor.
What to Serve With Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos:
- Refried Beans: A classic side that pairs perfectly with tacos.
- Mexican Rice: Flavorful rice makes a great accompaniment.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds extra richness and flavor.
Tips for Success:
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite taco ingredients like diced bell peppers, corn, or olives.
- Make it Spicy: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the beef mixture for a spicier kick.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pockets ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
Storing & Reheating:
- Store: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days.
- Reheat: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep the pockets crispy.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Nutritional Information (Per Pocket) (Approximate):
- Calories: 400
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Sodium: 800mg
These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a fun and tasty way to enjoy all the flavors of tacos in a handheld, cheesy pocket. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and sides for a complete meal that everyone will love!
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Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Description
These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a fun and delicious twist on the classic taco. Soft, fluffy pockets filled with seasoned ground beef, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings make these pockets a hit at any meal. They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for serving at parties, family dinners, or casual gatherings.
Hungry for more? Subscribe now and have this recipe sent directly to your inbox—along with exclusive foodie updates!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter option)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 can (8 oz) refrigerated crescent roll dough (or pizza dough if you prefer)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Salsa (optional, for serving)
- Chopped lettuce, tomatoes, and cilantro (for garnish)
- 1/4 cup jalapeño slices (optional, for added heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef
- In a skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Add the ground beef (or turkey) to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the taco seasoning mix and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens and is fully combined.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
- Unroll the crescent roll dough on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Pinch the perforations together to form one large sheet of dough, or use pizza dough for a thicker pocket.
- Cut the dough into 4-6 rectangles, depending on how large you want the taco pockets.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Pockets
- Spoon the beef mixture onto the center of each dough rectangle.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on top of the beef mixture.
- Fold the dough over to create a pocket, sealing the edges by pinching them together.
Step 5: Bake the Pockets
- Brush the top of each pocket with a bit of beaten egg (optional) for a golden, crispy finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the pockets are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Step 6: Serve & Garnish
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving.
- Top each pocket with chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, cilantro, and a dollop of sour cream. You can also drizzle with salsa or hot sauce for added flavor.
Notes
- Customize the Filling: Feel free to add your favorite taco ingredients like diced bell peppers, corn, or olives.
- Make it Spicy: Add jalapeños or chili flakes to the beef mixture for a spicier kick.
- Make Ahead: Assemble the pockets ahead of time and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
