Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos

These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are the perfect combination of cheesy, savory goodness wrapped up in a warm, crispy tortilla. Packed with all your favorite taco fillings and topped with melted cheese, these pocket tacos are a fun twist on a classic dish! They’re easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy & Delicious – Loaded with gooey melted cheese and savory fillings.
• Crispy & Crunchy – The tacos are perfectly crisp on the outside while staying soft on the inside.
• Customizable – You can add or remove ingredients to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.
• Quick & Easy – Ready in 20 minutes or less for a fast and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

For the Taco Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef, chicken, or turkey (or any protein of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)

For the Pocket Tacos:

• 6 large flour tortillas (or soft corn tortillas, if preferred)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for brushing)

Toppings:

• Sour cream
• Guacamole
• Salsa
• Chopped lettuce
• Diced avocado
• Jalapeños (optional for extra spice)

How to Make Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos:

1. Prepare the Taco Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3 minutes.
   • Add the ground beef (or your chosen protein) to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the taco seasoning and water, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the corn, tomatoes, and cilantro (if using), and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
2. Prepare the Cheesy Pocket Tacos:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) or heat a skillet over medium heat.
   • If using the oven, lightly brush both sides of the tortillas with olive oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes until they start to crisp up but are still pliable enough to fold. If using a skillet, heat the tortillas one at a time in the skillet for 1-2 minutes on each side until warm and slightly crisp.
   • Once the tortillas are warmed and slightly crispy, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese on half of each tortilla, leaving space along the edges to fold them over.
3. Assemble the Pocket Tacos:
   • Spoon the taco filling onto the cheesy half of each tortilla. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to seal. If you’re baking them, return the folded tacos to the oven and bake for another 3-5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is golden and crispy. Alternatively, you can heat them in a skillet over medium heat, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
4. Serve:
   • Slice the loaded cheesy pocket tacos in half, if desired, and serve with your favorite taco toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, lettuce, diced avocado, and jalapeños for extra flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of Mexican rice or refried beans.
• Pair with a refreshing margarita or iced tea for a perfect taco night.

Tips for the Best Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos:

• Don’t overstuff the tacos; leave enough space around the edges for the cheese to melt and the tortilla to fold easily.
• If you want extra cheesy tacos, add cheese to both sides of the tortilla before folding it.
• For a spicier kick, use a spicier taco seasoning or top with your favorite hot sauce.

Storage & Reheating:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover pocket tacos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Reheat: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until crispy and warm.

Frequently Asked Questions:

• Can I use soft corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
  Yes, corn tortillas will work, but they might be a bit more delicate when folded. Make sure to heat them slightly before filling to prevent breaking.
• Can I make these ahead of time?
  You can prepare the taco filling and assemble the pocket tacos in advance. Store them in the fridge and bake or heat them when ready to serve.
• What protein can I use for this recipe?
  You can use ground beef, chicken, turkey, or even vegetarian options like beans or tofu. Feel free to customize the filling as you like!

Conclusion: These Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos are a fun and cheesy twist on traditional tacos. With a crispy tortilla, savory taco filling, and melted cheese, this dish is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Plus, it’s quick and easy to make, so you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Cuisine: Mexican

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