Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Ground Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

2. Add the Onion and Taco Seasoning

Add the finely chopped onion to the skillet with the beef and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens. Stir in the taco seasoning mix along with the water (or follow the instructions on the seasoning packet). Let it simmer for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly and the flavors meld together. If you like your taco pockets extra saucy, add a couple of spoonfuls of salsa.

3. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough

While the beef mixture is simmering, preheat your oven according to the instructions on the crescent roll dough packaging (usually around 375°F/190°C). Open the can of crescent roll dough and unroll it on a baking sheet, separating it into individual triangles.

4. Assemble the Taco Pockets

Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef mixture onto the wide end of each crescent triangle. Top with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Then, fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal them tightly. You should now have little taco-shaped pockets.

5. Bake to Perfection

Place the taco pockets in the preheated oven and bake according to the crescent dough instructions (usually 10-12 minutes), or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the taco pockets are baked, let them cool for a minute or two before serving. Serve with optional sides like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping. You can also top them with lettuce, tomatoes, jalapeños, or any of your favorite taco toppings for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets:

• Use leftovers: If you have leftover taco meat from a previous meal, these taco pockets are a great way to use it up. Just reheat the filling and assemble the pockets as directed.
• Beef alternatives: You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based protein for a lighter or vegetarian version.
• Add a kick: Want a spicier bite? Add diced jalapeños or a bit of hot sauce to the beef mixture before assembling.
• Make it cheesy: If you’re a cheese lover, feel free to add extra cheese inside the pockets or sprinkle some on top before baking for an even cheesier experience.

Final Thoughts:

These Cheesy Beef Taco Pockets are a quick, easy, and flavorful meal that the whole family will love. With their crispy dough and cheesy, seasoned beef filling, they offer all the delicious flavors of a taco in a convenient, handheld form. Perfect for weeknight dinners, parties, or even meal prep, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

So grab your crescent roll dough and taco seasoning—it’s time to make some cheesy taco magic!