Preheat your oven to 400ºF. This ensures that your Puffy Tacos will bake to perfection, achieving that golden-brown color we all love.
Line two baking sheets with parchment paper and set them aside. This will keep the pastries from sticking and make cleanup a breeze later!
In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium heat until it's no longer pink. This is where the magic begins; the aroma will fill your kitchen, making your mouth water!
Once the beef is cooked, drain any excess fat. Then, add the taco seasoning along with the diced tomatoes and green chiles and water to the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. Let this mixture simmer for about five minutes.
While the filling simmers, unfold the thawed puff pastry sheets. Cut each sheet into nine squares. You'll have a perfect base for your Puffy Tacos.
Now it's time to fill! Arrange a spoonful of the taco meat mixture down the diagonal center of each square. Sprinkle some shredded cheddar cheese on top. This layer of cheese will melt beautifully as the tacos bake.
Next, fold two opposite corners of each square over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal. This step is crucial for ensuring that all that delicious filling stays inside while they bake.
Carefully place the filled pastries on the prepared baking sheets. Make sure they have enough space to puff up while baking, as this is what gives them their name!
Pop them in the oven and bake for 15 to 18 minutes, or until they’re beautifully golden brown. Keep an eye on them towards the end of baking to prevent overcooking.
Once baked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve your Puffy Tacos warm or at room temperature. They’re perfect for sharing!
