Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets

A snack can be as simple as cheese and crackers, but sometimes you want something a little bit extra, and these Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets perfectly fit the bill. They’re easy to make (seven ingredients!), full of creamy, beefy, cheesy goodness, and are hearty enough to qualify as a meal if you want a dinner that’s a little snacky. My whole family loves them, and I’m sure yours will too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets are the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. With just seven ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying snack or meal that’ll please everyone. They’re versatile, allowing you to customize with different proteins or even add some beans. Plus, they’re quick to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet
• Medium mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Brush for butter

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 8 oz cream cheese, at room temperature
• 1/2 cup salsa
• 1 1/2 cups cheddar cheese, grated
• 12 small flour tortillas
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• Sour cream, for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain any excess fat as needed.
3. Season the beef with the taco seasoning, following the instructions on the packet, and set aside.
4. In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add the salsa and mix to combine.
5. Spread a generous spoonful of the cream cheese mixture in the center of a tortilla. Spoon some of the ground beef over the mixture, then top with cheese.
6. Roll the tortilla up as you would with a burrito and place it on the prepared baking sheet.
7. Brush the top with melted butter, and sprinkle with a little bit of the remaining cheese. Bake until golden brown, about 15 minutes.
8. Serve with your favorite topping and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Ensure the cream cheese is at room temperature for easy mixing.
• Don’t overfill the tortillas to prevent them from bursting during baking.
• Experiment with different cheeses for added flavor.

Additional Tips or Variations

If you’re looking to mix things up, try using ground turkey or adding black beans for a different protein choice. You can also stir in some refried beans with the beef for extra creaminess. Customize your toppings with guacamole, diced tomatoes, or chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

Each serving of Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets is packed with protein and calcium, thanks to the beef and cheese. They’re also a good source of energy from the carbohydrates in the tortillas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the filling in advance and assemble the pockets just before baking.

What’s the best way to store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

Can I freeze these taco pockets? Yes, they freeze well. Freeze before baking, and when ready to enjoy, bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Conclusion

I hope you’re as excited to try these Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets as I am to share them with you. They’re a delightful, easy-to-make treat that’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to experiment with your favorite toppings and share your experiences with us!