Description
Mexican-inspired Cheesy Pocket Tacos blend crispy tortillas with melted cheese and savory fillings, creating a handheld delight that brings zesty flavors to your plate. Packed with bold spices and simple ingredients, you’ll savor each bite of this crowd-pleasing meal that promises comfort and excitement.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Protein:
- 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup water
Cheese:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Additional Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt)
- 12 small flour tortillas (street taco size)
Instructions
- In a large skillet heated to medium-high, thoroughly brown the ground meat, constantly breaking it down with a utensil. Drain any accumulated fat, then incorporate taco seasoning and recommended liquid, allowing the mixture to simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce reaches a thick, robust consistency.
- Create a harmonious cheese blend by combining cheddar and Monterey Jack in a mixing bowl, ensuring an even distribution of both varieties.
- Gently warm tortillas to enhance their flexibility and pliability. Strategically position taco meat along one half of each tortilla, then generously scatter cheese, finely chopped red onion, and fresh cilantro across the meat surface.
- Carefully fold each tortilla into a compact half-moon pocket, sealing the savory ingredients within.
- Utilize a skillet or panini press set to medium heat. Carefully toast each pocket for 1-2 minutes per side, achieving a golden-brown exterior and ensuring the cheese melts completely.
- Enhance the pockets by adding vibrant toppings such as diced tomatoes, crisp lettuce, zesty salsa, creamy guacamole, and spicy jalapeños. Accompany with a dollop of sour cream or tangy Greek yogurt for additional flavor complexity.
Notes
- Choose lean ground beef or turkey to reduce fat content and make the dish healthier for those watching their calorie intake.
- Swap regular tortillas with gluten-free or low-carb alternatives like cauliflower wraps for individuals with dietary restrictions.
- Experiment with plant-based meat substitutes like crumbled tofu or Beyond Meat for vegetarian and vegan versions of the recipe.
- Add extra spices like smoked paprika or cumin to enhance the depth of flavor in the taco meat without increasing calories.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks, Appetizer
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 257 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 16 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 1.5 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 45 mg