Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets

These Loaded Taco-Stuffed Cheesy Pockets are a fantastic twist on traditional tacos, offering a delicious, melty, and satisfying bite. Here’s a complete recipe to guide you through making them at home:

Ingredients:

1 packet Taco Seasoning
1 pound ground beef
1/2 cup salsa
1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
Pizza dough or pre-made pastry dough
1 egg (for egg wash)
Optional: chopped onions, bell peppers, jalapeños for extra filling

Instructions:

Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef:
- In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess grease.
- Add the taco seasoning and follow the packet instructions (usually mixing with a bit of water and simmering until thickened).
- Stir in the salsa and any additional vegetables you prefer. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is well combined and heated through.
Prepare the Dough:
- Roll out your dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut into squares or rectangles depending on the size of pockets you want.
Assemble the Pockets:
- Spoon a portion of the taco meat mixture onto the center of each dough piece. Top with a generous sprinkle of shredded cheese.
- Fold the dough over the filling to create a pocket. Seal the edges well by pressing with a fork or your fingers.
Apply Egg Wash:
- Beat the egg with a tablespoon of water and brush over the top of each pocket. This will help in getting a nice golden color.
Bake:
- Place the pockets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the pockets are golden and puffed up.
Serve:
- Let them cool slightly before serving. Serve with additional salsa, sour cream, or guacamole on the side.