Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step recipe for Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos—crispy outside, melty and loaded inside 🌮🧀

---

🌮 Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos

⏱ Time

• Prep: 20 minutes

• Cook: 15–20 minutes

• Total: ~40 minutes

🍽 Servings

• Makes 8 pocket tacos

---

🧾 Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or chicken/turkey)

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade)

• ½ cup water

• ½ cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed

• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)

• ½ cup salsa or diced tomatoes

• Salt & pepper, to taste

For the Cheesy Pocket

• 8 small flour tortillas (soft and flexible)

• 2 cups shredded cheese
  (cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

• 2 tbsp butter or oil (for pan-frying)

Optional Toppings (for inside or serving)

• Sour cream

• Jalapeños

• Green onions

• Chopped cilantro

• Avocado or guacamole

---

👩‍🍳 Directions

1. Cook the Taco Filling

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.

3. Add diced onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft.

4. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.

5. Sprinkle in taco seasoning and pour in water.

6. Simmer for 3–5 minutes, letting the mixture thicken.

7. Stir in black beans, corn, and salsa.

8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

9. Remove from heat and let cool slightly (this helps with folding).

---

2. Assemble the Pocket Tacos

1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.

2. Sprinkle 2–3 tablespoons of shredded cheese on one half of the tortilla.

3. Spoon ¼–⅓ cup filling over the cheese.

4. Add more cheese on top (important for sealing!).

5. Fold the tortilla in half, pressing gently to form a pocket.

👉 Tip: Don’t overfill, or the pocket may burst while cooking.

---

3. Cook Until Crispy

Pan-Fry Method (Best Texture):

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt a little butter or oil.

2. Place pocket tacos in the pan (don’t overcrowd).

3. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

4. Remove and place on a paper towel-lined plate.

Alternative: Oven Method

• Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway.

---

4. Serve

• Slice in half if desired.

• Serve hot with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or a side salad.

---

🔁 Variations

• Vegetarian: Use sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, zucchini, and beans.

• Breakfast Pocket Tacos: Eggs, cheese, and breakfast sausage.

• Spicy: Add hot sauce or chipotle peppers.

• Air Fryer: 375°F (190°C) for 6–8 minutes, flipping once.