1. Cook the Beef: Building a Flavorful Foundation

1. Heat Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add Beef: Add the ground beef to the heated skillet.
3. Brown the Beef: Cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula or wooden spoon as it cooks, until it’s fully browned and no longer pink. This should take about 7-10 minutes.
4. Drain Grease: Once the beef is browned, carefully drain off any excess grease from the skillet.

2. Season the Beef: Adding Zesty Taco Flavor

1. Add Taco Seasoning: Sprinkle the packet of taco seasoning over the cooked ground beef.
2. Stir to Coat: Stir well to ensure the beef is evenly coated with the seasoning.

3. Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture: A Creamy and Tangy Element

1. Combine Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and salsa.
2. Beat Until Smooth: Use a hand mixer or a whisk to beat the cream cheese and salsa together until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

4. Assemble the Tacos: Building the Pockets of Deliciousness

1. Lay Out Tortillas: Place the tortillas on a clean, flat surface, such as a large cutting board or countertop.
2. Spread Cream Cheese Mixture: Spread a portion of the cream cheese mixture (about 1-2 tablespoons) onto the center of each tortilla, leaving a border around the edges.
3. Top with Beef: Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned ground beef (about 2-3 tablespoons) over the cream cheese mixture on each tortilla.
4. Sprinkle with Cheese: Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese (about 1-2 tablespoons) over the beef on each tortilla.

5. Form the Pockets: Sealing in the Flavor

1. Fold Over: Carefully fold each tortilla over the filling, bringing one edge over to meet the opposite edge, forming a half-moon or pocket shape.
2. Press Edges: Gently press along the edges of the folded tortilla to help seal the filling inside.
   • Tip: The filling should be fully enclosed within the tortilla pocket.

6. Prep for Baking: Ensuring Golden-Brown and Crispy Results

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Baking Sheet: Spray a baking sheet with cooking spray. This will prevent the pocket tacos from sticking.
3. Arrange Pockets: Arrange the filled tortilla pockets on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one.
4. Brush with Butter: Brush the tops of the folded tortillas with the melted butter. This will help them brown and crisp up nicely in the oven.

7. Bake to Perfection: Achieving a Golden-Brown and Cheesy Delight

1. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven.
2. Baking Time: Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve and Enjoy: Savoring the Flavorful Creation

1. Cool Slightly: Let the Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos cool for a minute or two before serving.
2. Serve Warm: Serve warm, with your favorite toppings and dipping sauces, such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or pico de gallo.