- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
- Drain excess grease and stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in black beans and corn if using, then remove from heat.
Step 2: Prepare the Dough
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle, then cut into 4 equal squares (for larger pockets) or 6 squares (for smaller portions).
Step 3: Assemble the Cheesy Pockets
- Place a spoonful of taco meat in the center of each dough square.
- Sprinkle generously with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a secure seal.
- Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden crust.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden
- Place the stuffed pockets on the prepared baking sheet.
- Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
- Brush with melted butter for an extra-rich flavor.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
- Garnish with chopped tomatoes, jalapeños, and green onions for an extra kick.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh salad.
- Pair with salsa, queso, or chipotle mayo for dipping.
Storage & Reheating:
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze unbaked pockets for up to 3 months. Bake from frozen, adding 5 extra minutes.
- Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes for crispiness.
Variants & Customization
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the meat.
- Vegetarian: Use black beans, mushrooms, or tofu instead of meat.
- Cheesy Overload: Add a layer of queso or cream cheese inside the pockets.
- Breakfast Version: Swap the taco meat for scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese.
FAQ
1. Can I use store-bought taco meat?
Yes! If short on time, use pre-cooked taco meat and assemble the pockets as usual.
2. Can I make these in an air fryer?
Absolutely! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
3. Can I use puff pastry instead of pizza dough?
Yes! Puff pastry will give a flakier texture. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–18 minutes.
4. What’s the best cheese for extra meltiness?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, and pepper jack cheese all melt beautifully inside the pockets.
continued on next page