Description
These Mexican Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a delicious and easy-to-make meal featuring seasoned ground beef, creamy salsa-infused cream cheese, and melted cheddar cheese stuffed inside warm tortillas. Baked until crispy and golden, these handheld tacos are perfect for a quick dinner or party snack that serves 12.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup salsa
Cream Cheese Mixture
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
Tortacos and Toppings
- 12 6-inch tortillas
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Cook the beef. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned, making sure to crumble it evenly. Once cooked, drain any excess grease from the skillet to keep the filling flavorful but not greasy.
- Season the beef. Add the packet of taco seasoning to the cooked beef along with any required water or ingredients as per the packet instructions. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat the meat with the spices and cook for a few more minutes so the flavors meld together.
- Prepare the cream cheese mixture. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Then gently fold in the salsa to create a tangy, creamy filling base.
- Assemble the tacos. Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese and salsa mixture in the center. Top it with a portion of the seasoned ground beef and then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the meat.
- Fold the tortillas. Fold the tortilla over like a burrito, making sure to tuck in the sides to seal in the filling. This prevents any leaks when baking.
- Preheat the oven. Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking tray by lightly spraying or greasing it to prevent sticking.
- Bake the pocket tacos. Place the folded tortillas seam side down on the baking tray. Brush the tops with melted butter to help achieve a golden, crispy crust. Bake for 15 minutes or until the tortillas are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve. Remove from the oven and serve warm with your favorite toppings such as shredded lettuce, sour cream, or extra salsa for added freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to ensure a smooth filling.
- These tacos can be made ahead and baked just before serving for convenience.
- For a spicier kick, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the cream cheese mixture.
- Use a non-stick baking tray or line with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
