Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and creative take on traditional tacos, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game day gathering or enjoying a casual family dinner, these taco sticks deliver flavor and fun. With gooey cheese and seasoned beef wrapped in soft pizza dough, they are sure to be a hit with everyone!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Filling
• For the Dough
• For the Cheese
• For the Topping
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
• Step 3: Cook the Beef
• Step 4: Add Seasoning
• Step 5: Roll Out Pizza Dough
• Step 6: Assemble Taco Sticks
• Step 7: Seal the Dough
• Step 8: Brush with Butter Mixture
• Step 9: Bake
• How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
• With Dipping Sauces
• As Part of a Platter
• In Tacos
• How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?
• What other cheeses work well in Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• How do I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• Can I use a different type of dough?
• Are Cheesy Taco Sticks kid-friendly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: These cheesy taco sticks come together quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Versatile Dish: Serve them as appetizers, main courses, or even as snacks during movie night.
• Kid-Friendly: Picky eaters will love the cheesy filling and crispy dough, making them a great choice for kids.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of seasoned ground beef and melted Colby Jack cheese creates an irresistible taste in every bite.
• Perfectly Portable: These taco sticks are easy to grab and go, making them great for parties or picnics.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Cheesy Taco Sticks, gather your tools to streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even baking and easy cleanup when lined with parchment paper.
• Skillet: Perfect for browning the ground beef while allowing you to mix ingredients easily.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Ideal for melting butter quickly without fuss.

Ingredients

For the Filling

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 package taco seasoning (plus water as directed on the package)

For the Dough

• 2 cans Pillsbury pizza dough

For the Cheese

• 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks

For the Topping

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This is crucial for achieving that golden-brown finish on your taco sticks.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure that your cheesy taco sticks don’t stick during baking.

Step 3: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add the ground beef and cook until fully browned (about 5–7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Add Seasoning

Stir in:
1. The minced garlic.
2. The taco seasoning along with water as directed on the package.
3. Cook over high heat for about 2–3 minutes or until most of the water has evaporated.

Step 5: Roll Out Pizza Dough

Unroll one can of pizza dough onto one of the prepared baking sheets:
1. Shape it into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×8 inches.
2. Cut it into six even squares (4×4 inches each).
3. Repeat this with the second can of pizza dough.

Step 6: Assemble Taco Sticks

For each square of dough:
1. Scoop about 3 tablespoons of the cooked taco meat mixture into the center.
2. Cut each cheese stick in half and place half on top of the meat filling.

Step 7: Seal the Dough

Fold up the sides of each dough square:
1. Pinch to seal tightly.
2. Fold and seal both ends towards the seam side.
3. Place seam-side down on one of the lined baking sheets.

Step 8: Brush with Butter Mixture

Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl:
1. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley.
2. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of your assembled taco sticks.

Step 9: Bake

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–14 minutes:
– Keep an eye out until they turn golden brown and puffy.

Now you’re ready to enjoy your delicious homemade Cheesy Taco Sticks!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, looking for a quick dinner option, or serving snacks for kids, these taco sticks will surely please everyone. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream – A classic choice that adds creaminess and tang.
• Salsa – Fresh salsa brings a zesty kick and complements the flavors perfectly.
• Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip adds richness and is always a favorite.

As Part of a Platter

• Vegetable Platter – Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell pepper strips for crunch.
• Cheese Board – Pair with assorted cheeses to create a delightful cheese board experience.

In Tacos

• Taco Salad – Crumble the Cheesy Taco Sticks over a bed of lettuce with toppings like tomatoes and cheese.
• Mini Tacos – Slice the sticks into smaller pieces and serve with mini taco shells for fun finger food.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

Making the perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks requires attention to detail. Follow these tips to enhance your taco stick game!

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh ground beef and quality cheese for optimal flavor.
• Don’t Overfill – Keep the filling moderate; too much can lead to tearing when sealing the dough.
• Seal Properly – Ensure all edges are well-sealed to prevent leaks during baking.
• Experiment with Cheese – Try different cheeses like Pepper Jack or Cheddar for varied flavors.
• Adjust Seasoning – Customize taco seasoning according to your spice preference for a personal touch.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks

To make your meal complete, pair your Cheesy Taco Sticks with some delicious side dishes. Here’s a list of great options that complement their flavors wonderfully.

1. Mexican Rice – Fluffy rice seasoned with spices makes a perfect accompaniment.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy beans provide protein and balance out the meal’s flavors.
3. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn adds freshness and sweetness to your plate.
4. Chips and Salsa – Crispy tortilla chips served with salsa create an appealing crunch contrast.
5. Queso Dip – Warm cheese dip is ideal for those who love extra cheesy goodness.
6. Garden Salad – A light salad gives a refreshing break from the richness of the taco sticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Taco Sticks is simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-ideal results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Beef: Cooking the ground beef too long can dry it out. Aim for just browned and then drain excess fat.
• Using Cold Dough: Starting with cold pizza dough makes it hard to stretch. Let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before using.
• Not Sealing Properly: Failing to seal the taco sticks well can cause them to open during baking. Pinch the seams tightly and fold ends securely.
• Skipping Seasoning: Forgetting to add seasoning can result in bland flavors. Use the taco seasoning as instructed for maximum taste.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at an incorrect temperature can lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your oven and monitor while baking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow Cheesy Taco Sticks to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
• They can be stored frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for 30-45 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?

You can prepare the filling and assemble the taco sticks ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake.

What other cheeses work well in Cheesy Taco Sticks?

You can substitute Colby Jack with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack cheese for different flavors.

How do I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Feel free to add extra ingredients like beans, peppers, or onions to the meat mixture for added texture and taste.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes! You can use crescent roll dough or even make your own homemade dough if desired.

Are Cheesy Taco Sticks kid-friendly?

Absolutely! They are perfect for kids due to their fun shape and cheesy filling, making them a hit at any meal or snack time.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks are not just delicious; they offer endless possibilities for customization. Whether you need a quick dinner or fun game day snacks, these delightful bites will please everyone at the table. Try adding your favorite ingredients or dipping sauces to make them truly your own!

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