Loaded Taco Stuffed Cheesy Pockets – A Flavor-Packed, Cheesy Delight!

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  3. Drain excess grease and stir in taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
  4. Stir in black beans and corn if using, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. 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

  1. Place a spoonful of taco meat in the center of each dough square.
  2. Sprinkle generously with cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese.
  3. Fold the dough over the filling, pressing the edges together to seal. Use a fork to crimp the edges for a secure seal.
  4. Brush the tops with egg wash for a golden crust.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

  1. Place the stuffed pockets on the prepared baking sheet.
  2. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
  3. Brush with melted butter for an extra-rich flavor.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve with your favorite toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or salsa.
  2. 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

Laisser un commentaire