Introduction
If you’re looking for a delicious and easy-to-make dinner option, these beef taco pockets are the perfect choice. With a tantalizing combination of seasoned ground beef, creamy cheese, and delectable refried beans encased in warm tortillas, this recipe is sure to please your family and friends. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, these taco pockets are both satisfying and flavorful.
Ingredients
1 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
4-ounce block of cream cheese
¼ cup sour cream
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can refried beans
4 10-inch tortillas
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
15 minutes
Total Time
30 minutes
Yield
4 taco pockets
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a shallow roasting pan or cookie sheet with non-stick spray.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add taco seasoning and ½ cup of water to the beef. Cook until most of the water is absorbed. Remove from heat.
4. In a small bowl, blend together the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
5. In another bowl, mix the refried beans with a little water to make them easier to spread.
6. Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable.
7. On each tortilla, spread a layer of refried beans in the center, leaving about a 3-inch border.
8. Add a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the beans.
9. Top with the seasoned ground beef and then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
10. Fold the tortilla into a pocket by folding the top and bottom edges over the filling, then folding in the sides.
11. Place the folded taco pockets seam-side down on the prepared pan. Brush the tops with melted butter.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
13. If desired, broil for an additional 40 to 60 seconds to toast the tops.
14. Serve with your choice of toppings and enjoy!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat oven to 350°F and prepare a shallow roasting pan or cookie sheet with non-stick spray.
Step 2: Cook Ground Beef
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
Step 3: Season Meat
Add taco seasoning and ½ cup of water to the beef. Cook until most of the water is absorbed. Remove from heat.
Step 4: Blend Cream Mixture
In a small bowl, blend together the cream cheese and sour cream until smooth.
Step 5: Prepare Refried Beans
In another bowl, mix the refried beans with a little water to make them easier to spread.
Step 6: Warm Tortillas
Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable.
Step 7: Assemble Filling
On each tortilla, spread a layer of refried beans in the center, leaving about a 3-inch border.
Step 8: Add Cream Cheese Mixture
Add a layer of the cream cheese mixture over the beans.
Step 9: Add Ground Beef and Cheese
Top with the seasoned ground beef and then sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 10: Fold Tortillas
Fold the tortilla into a pocket by folding the top and bottom edges over the filling, then folding in the sides.
Step 11: Place on Baking Sheet
Place the folded taco pockets seam-side down on the prepared pan. Brush the tops with melted butter.
Step 12: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes.
Step 13: Broil for Crispiness
If desired, broil for an additional 40 to 60 seconds to toast the tops.
Step 14: Serve
Serve with your choice of toppings and enjoy!
Notes
Note 1
Always ensure the ground beef is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F.
Note 2
Adjust the taco seasoning quantity based on your taste preference, for a milder or spicier flavor.
Note 3
Feel free to customize the fillings by adding vegetables or other types of cheese.
Note 4
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Cook techniques
Brown Ground Beef
Cooking ground beef involves browning it over medium heat until it changes color and is no longer pink. This technique helps develop flavor and texture in the meat.
Add Seasoning
Incorporating taco seasoning into browned ground beef allows the flavors to meld. Adding a small amount of water helps release the spices and create a cohesive mixture.
Blend Creamy Ingredients
Blending cream cheese and sour cream together creates a smooth and creamy mixture that can easily be spread over your tortillas, enhancing flavor and texture.
Prepare Refried Beans
Mixing refried beans with a bit of water can help achieve a spreadable consistency, making it easier to layer in your tortillas.
Warm Tortillas
Gently warming tortillas makes them pliable and less likely to tear when folding, ensuring your taco pockets hold together well.
Layering Ingredients
Layering is essential for flavor distribution; start with a base of refried beans, followed by the cream cheese mixture, seasoned beef, and shredded cheese.
Folding Techniques
Folding tortillas into a pocket involves bringing the top and bottom over the filling first and then folding in the sides, securing the ingredients inside.
Baking for Texture
Baking taco pockets in the oven allows the tortillas to crisp up and the cheese to melt, creating a delightful texture contrast with the creamy filling.
Broiling for Finish
Broiling for a short time enhances browning and adds a crispy top layer, giving a golden finish to your taco pockets before serving.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the taco pockets ahead of time, then bake them when you’re ready to serve.
What toppings can I use?
Popular toppings include salsa, guacamole, chopped tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños.
Can I freeze the taco pockets?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled taco pockets before baking. Just ensure they are well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
How long do leftovers last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
This baked taco pocket recipe is a delightful and easy way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a convenient pocket form. With its creamy filling, seasoned beef, and melted cheese, it’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a fun party snack. Don’t hesitate to experiment with various toppings or sauces to customize each serving to your preference!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Taco Salad
Layer seasoned ground beef, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and tortilla chips, drizzled with ranch or salsa.
Quesadilla
Fill tortillas with seasoned beef, cheese, and peppers, then grill until golden brown and cheese melts.
Baked Nachos
Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with refried beans, seasoned beef, and cheese, then bake until everything is warm and bubbly.
Stuffed Peppers
Mix ground beef with rice, taco seasoning, and cheese, then stuff into halved bell peppers and bake until tender.
Taco Soup
Combine ground beef, beans, tomatoes, corn, and taco seasoning in a pot and simmer for a hearty soup topped with cheese and sour cream.
Taco Pizza
Use pizza dough as a crust, then top with refried beans, seasoned ground beef, cheese, and your favorite taco toppings before baking.
