Loaded Cheesy Pocket Tacos (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Filling

01 - 1 pound ground beef
02 - 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
03 - 1 teaspoon garlic powder
04 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
06 - Salt, to taste
07 - Black pepper, to taste
08 - 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
09 - 3/4 cup tomato sauce or enchilada sauce

→ Assembly

10 - 6 to 8 medium flour tortillas
11 - 2 cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
12 - 1/2 cup mozzarella slices (optional)

→ Garnishes

13 - Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
14 - Chopped green onions (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - Set oven to 190°C (375°F) and allow to fully preheat.
02 - Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add ground beef and onion, cooking until beef is browned and onions are softened. Drain excess fat.
03 - Incorporate garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper into the beef mixture. Sauté for 1–2 minutes to blend flavors.
04 - Stir in frozen mixed vegetables and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Pour in tomato sauce and simmer gently for 5 minutes. Remove from heat after filling is well-combined.
05 - Gently warm tortillas until soft and pliable, preventing cracking during assembly.
06 - Place 2–3 tablespoons of beef filling onto the center of each tortilla. Layer with a portion of shredded cheese and roll tightly, folding in the sides.
07 - Arrange rolled tortillas seam-side down in a greased or parchment-lined 33 x 23 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking dish. Sprinkle remaining shredded cheese and optional mozzarella slices over the top.
08 - Bake in the preheated oven for 18–22 minutes or until cheese is thoroughly melted and golden. For a crispier top, broil for an additional 2 minutes if desired.
09 - Allow baked tacos to rest briefly. Finish with chopped cilantro or parsley and green onions before serving hot.

# Notes:

01 - Warming the tortillas before filling helps prevent tearing and ensures easier rolling.
02 - Broiling briefly after baking creates a golden, bubbly cheese topping.