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Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos Recipe

4.6 from 127 reviews

These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a delicious and satisfying meal featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy salsa-infused cream cheese, and melted Cheddar cheese all wrapped in warm tortillas and baked until golden and crispy. Perfect for a fun family dinner or casual get-together.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Seasoning

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning

Cheese Mixture

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded Cheddar cheese

Other Ingredients

  • 12 6-inch tortillas
  • 2 tbsp melted butter

Instructions

  1. Brown the Beef: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks until fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the skillet to prevent sogginess.
  2. Season the Beef: Stir in the taco seasoning according to the packet’s instructions, mixing thoroughly to evenly coat the beef with flavor.
  3. Prepare Cream Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, use a hand mixer or whisk to beat the cream cheese until smooth. Then blend in the salsa until the mixture is uniform and creamy.
  4. Assemble the Tacos: Lay one tortilla flat and spread a portion of the cream cheese mixture in the center. Add a spoonful of the seasoned beef on top, then generously sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the beef.
  5. Form the Pocket: Fold the tortilla over the filling like a burrito, making sure to create a tight, sealed pocket to hold all the ingredients.
  6. Prep for Baking: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray a baking tray with cooking spray and arrange the filled tortillas seam side down. Brush the tops of the pockets with melted butter to help them crisp and develop a golden-brown color.
  7. Bake: Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for about 15 minutes, or until the tortillas turn golden and crispy, and the cheese inside has melted beautifully.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
  • If preferred, use low-fat cream cheese to reduce fat content.
  • For extra crispiness, broil the pockets for 1-2 minutes at the end of baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
  • Serve with sour cream, guacamole, or extra salsa on the side for added flavor.
  • Leftover pocket tacos can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or air fryer for best texture.

Keywords: loaded pocket tacos, cheesy tacos, baked tacos, ground beef tacos, cream cheese tacos