Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos

Here’s a deliciously satisfying recipe for Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos — think of it as a cross between a taco, a quesadilla, and a hand pie, packed with seasoned beef, melty cheese, and your favorite taco toppings, all wrapped in a golden, crispy pocket!

🌮 Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos

🔹 Ingredients

For the Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)

• 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade – see below)

• 1/4 cup water

• 1/2 cup diced onions (optional)

• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese

• 1/2 cup salsa or taco sauce (optional, for extra flavor)

For the Pockets:

• 1 can (8-count) refrigerated biscuit dough or crescent roll dough
  (OR use homemade empanada dough or flour tortillas folded & sealed)

• 1 egg + 1 tbsp water (for egg wash)

• Olive oil or butter for brushing (optional)

Toppings for Serving (Optional):

• Sour cream

• Salsa or pico de gallo

• Shredded lettuce

• Diced tomatoes

• Jalapeños

• Guacamole or avocado slices

🔪 Instructions

1. Cook the Beef Filling:

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef and onions until browned. Drain excess grease.

2. Stir in taco seasoning and 1/4 cup water. Simmer until thickened.

3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix in salsa (if using) and both cheeses.

2. Assemble the Pockets:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Flatten biscuit or dough pieces into circles (about 5–6 inches wide).

3. Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of the filling into the center of each.

4. Fold dough over into a half-moon shape and crimp edges with a fork to seal.

5. Brush tops with egg wash or melted butter for a golden finish.

3. Bake:

• Bake for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown and puffed.

• Let cool slightly before serving — the cheese will be molten hot inside!

🍽️ To Serve:

Top with sour cream, salsa, lettuce, or any of your favorite taco fixings — or serve as a grab-and-go snack!

🌶️ Optional Homemade Taco Seasoning (makes 1 packet):

• 1 tbsp chili powder

• 1 tsp cumin

• 1 tsp paprika

• ½ tsp garlic powder

• ½ tsp onion powder

• ¼ tsp oregano

• ¼ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt

• Pinch of cayenne (optional)