Get ready for a fun and delicious twist on taco night with Cheesy Taco Sticks! These savory sticks combine seasoned ground beef with gooey cheese, all wrapped in crispy pizza dough. Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to be a hit with everyone!
Why We Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Fusion: Cheesy Taco Sticks bring together the best flavors of tacos and cheesy goodness in a fun and portable format. The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese makes every bite a delicious experience.
- Quick and Simple: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. You can have a satisfying meal ready in under 30 minutes, making it a go-to option for last-minute dinners.
- Kid-Approved: The cheesy, savory nature of these taco sticks appeals to both kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for picky eaters and make dinnertime enjoyable for the whole family.
- Versatile: You can customize the filling to suit your preferences. Add veggies, swap out the meat, or use different cheeses to make these sticks your own. They’re as adaptable as they are delicious!
- Great for Sharing: These taco sticks are perfect for gatherings, game days, or parties. They’re easy to pick up and eat, making them an excellent appetizer or finger food for any occasion.
- Leftover Friendly: If you happen to have any leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated easily, making for a quick snack or meal later on.
- Impressive Presentation: With their golden brown crust and cheesy filling, these taco sticks look great on any table, making them perfect for impressing guests.
Overall, Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful recipe that combines ease of preparation, fantastic flavors, and fun presentation, making them a beloved choice for any mealtime!
Ingredients
To make Cheesy Taco Sticks, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb. ground beef: The main protein for the filling.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Adds flavor and spice.
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough: The base for the taco sticks.
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved: Provides the cheesy goodness.
- 4 tbsp butter, melted: Adds richness and helps with browning.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances the flavor.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Adds a touch of color and flavor.
How to Make this Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Brown the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and follow the package instructions, adding water as needed. Cook until the beef is well coated and heated through.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
- Roll Out the Dough: On a lightly floured surface, roll out the Pillsbury pizza dough into a rectangle.
- Cut the Dough: Cut the dough into strips that are approximately 2-3 inches wide.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Sticks
- Fill the Dough: Place a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef on each strip of dough. Add a half cheese stick on top of the beef.
- Roll Them Up: Carefully roll the dough over the filling, sealing the ends to prevent the filling from escaping.
Step 5: Bake the Taco Sticks
- Prepare for Baking: Place the rolled taco sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush with Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush the mixture over the taco sticks.
- Bake in the Oven: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
- Cool and Enjoy: Allow the taco sticks to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa or sour cream!
Success Tips
- Customize Fillings: Feel free to add chopped onions, peppers, or other ingredients to the beef mixture for added flavor and texture.
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the dough to ensure that the taco sticks can be sealed properly.
- Check Doneness: Make sure the dough is fully cooked and golden brown to ensure a delicious texture.
Storage
To keep your Cheesy Taco Sticks fresh:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
Notes
- Serving Suggestions: These taco sticks pair wonderfully with guacamole, salsa, or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.
- Dough Alternatives: If you prefer, you can use crescent roll dough or make your own pizza dough.
Nutrition
Each serving (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 26g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 15g
(Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredient choices and portion sizes.)
FAQs
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a leaner option.
Can I Make These Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the filling and roll the taco sticks in advance, then refrigerate them until you’re ready to bake.
What Can I Dip These In?
These cheesy taco sticks pair well with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or even ranch dressing.
How Do I Know When They’re Done?
The taco sticks are done when they are golden brown and the dough is cooked through. You can check the bottom to ensure it’s also browned.
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos, bringing all the deliciousness of taco night into a convenient, bite-sized form. Perfect for family dinners, parties, or snacks, these sticks are sure to delight everyone at the table. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this cheesy, savory treat that will have everyone coming back for seconds! ✨