Taco Beef Cheese Pockets

Taco Pockets are a simple and satisfying meal that brings together the comforting flavors of a taco inside a flaky biscuit dough pocket. Ready in just 30 minutes, they are perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe makes a kid friendly dinner that everyone at the table will enjoy.

The first time I made these, my whole family loved how portable and delicious they were. Now they have become a go to dinner for busy weekdays when I want something homemade but fast.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: the base for a classic taco filling, you can swap with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option
• Taco seasoning: essential for that bold taco flavor, use your favorite brand or homemade mix for freshness
• Water: helps the seasoning blend into the meat creating a saucy consistency
• Salsa: adds tang and spiciness, pick mild or spicy depending on your preference
• Buttermilk biscuits: these provide the flaky dough shell Grands biscuits work perfectly because they hold up well while baking
• Monterey Jack cheese: melts nicely for creaminess you can use cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend if preferred
• Egg: optional, brushed on top of the pockets for a shiny golden finish

Instructions

Sauté the Ground Beef:

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until browned and crumbled, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook thoroughly and then drain excess grease. This step builds the savory base for your filling.

Mix in Taco Seasoning and Salsa:

Return the cooked beef to the skillet. Stir in the taco seasoning packet, water, and half a cup of salsa. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly, approximately three to five minutes. This step infuses the meat with taco flavor and creates a saucy texture.

Prepare the Biscuit Dough:

Flatten each biscuit into a round about six inches in diameter. You can press down gently with your hands or lightly roll them on a floured surface to get an even round shape. This makes the dough easier to fold around the filling.

Fill and Seal the Pockets:

Place about one third of a cup of the taco meat mixture in the center of each biscuit round. Sprinkle a small handful of shredded cheese over the filling. Fold the dough in half carefully over the filling, then press the edges together firmly to seal. For extra security and a decorative touch, crimp the edges with a fork.

Brush with Egg:

Place the sealed pockets on your prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops with the beaten egg to develop a golden brown crust during baking. This step is optional but adds an attractive finish.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake the pockets in a preheated oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 12 to 15 minutes or until the dough is fully cooked and the tops are golden. Let the pockets cool briefly before serving to allow the filling to settle and avoid burns.

The savory ground beef seasoned with taco spices is my favorite part of this dish. One family night I made a big batch, and my picky eater actually helped prepare them and devoured three. It instantly became a family favorite we make often.

Storage tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze the assembled unbaked pockets on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer safe bag. Bake from frozen at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for 18 to 22 minutes.

Ingredient substitutions

Ground beef can be replaced with ground turkey, chicken, or crumbled plant based meat alternatives. Use gluten free biscuit dough if needed to accommodate dietary restrictions. Cheese can be switched to your preferred style, and salsa heat can be adjusted or replaced with pico de gallo.

Serving suggestions

Serve these pockets with a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. They are also great alongside Spanish rice or a simple avocado and tomato salsa for extra freshness.

These taco pockets are a quick, family friendly meal that’s easy to customize. Serve warm and enjoy.

Common Recipe Questions

→ What variations can I add to the filling?

Try adding black beans, corn, or diced bell peppers for extra texture and nutrients. Refried beans also work well for creaminess.

→ How can I add more heat to the mixture?

Incorporate diced jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes into the beef filling. Using spicy salsa also adds extra kick.

→ What side dishes pair well with these pockets?

They go great with a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or Spanish rice for a complete meal.

→ Can I substitute the biscuit dough with another crust?

Biscuit dough holds the filling best, but pizza crust or puff pastry can be used. These require cutting into rounds and may change baking times.

→ What is the best way to freeze and reheat them?

Freeze assembled, unbaked pockets on a tray until firm, then store in freezer bags. Bake from frozen at 375°F for 18-22 minutes. Reheat baked pockets in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes or microwave briefly.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Keep leftover pockets in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.