Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on classic tacos. With a crispy golden crust, melty cheese, and seasoned taco meat, they make a perfect appetizer, snack, or dinner idea. Serve with your favorite dips for an extra delicious treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
  • Cheesy & Savory – Packed with taco-flavored beef and gooey cheese.
  • Great for Dipping – Pairs perfectly with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
  • Family-Friendly – A hit with both kids and adults!

Ingredients

  • Lean ground beef – 1 pound, cooked and seasoned.
  • Taco seasoning – 1 packet, for bold Mexican flavors.
  • Refrigerated pizza dough – 1 tube, for an easy, flaky crust.
  • Colby jack cheese sticks – 5 sticks, halved.
  • Melted butter – ¼ cup, for brushing on top.
  • Garlic powder – 1 teaspoon, for extra flavor.
  • Dried parsley – 1 teaspoon, for garnish.

Full ingredient measurements are in the recipe card below!

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

  1. Turn oven to 425°F and spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Filling

  1. Brown the ground beef in a pan, drain the fat, then mix in the taco seasoning.
  2. Let the mixture cool slightly before handling.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough

  1. Roll out the pizza dough and cut into 10 equal rectangles by slicing in half lengthwise, then cutting each half into 5 pieces.

Step 4: Assemble the Taco Sticks

  1. Place taco meat and half a cheese stick in the center of each rectangle.
  2. Roll the dough around the filling and pinch the edges to seal completely.

Step 5: Add Butter Topping

  1. Mix melted butter, garlic powder, and parsley in a small bowl.
  2. Brush the butter mixture over the assembled taco sticks.

Step 6: Bake

  1. Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Serve hot for the best cheese pull!

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

  • Let the Meat Cool – This prevents the dough from becoming soggy.
  • Seal the Dough Well – Prevents cheese from oozing out while baking.
  • Use Different Cheeses – Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
  • Make Ahead – Assemble in advance and bake when ready.

How to Serve

  • With Salsa or Guacamole – A classic pairing for extra flavor.
  • As a Party Snack – Perfect for game days and gatherings.
  • With a Side Salad – Makes a balanced meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

Freeze unbaked taco sticks in a single layer. Bake from frozen at 400°F for 15-18 minutes.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes or in an air fryer for extra crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of dough?
Yes! Crescent roll dough or biscuit dough can work well too.

Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use a meat substitute or black beans instead of ground beef.

What other seasonings can I add?
Try adding cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika for extra depth.

How do I keep them crispy?
Bake on a parchment-lined sheet and avoid overfilling to prevent leaks.

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re making them for a quick dinner, party appetizer, or meal prep, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

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Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

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  • Author: Susan M. Garcia
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 10 sticks 1x
  • Category: Appetizer
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American-Mexican Fusion

Description

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful fusion of classic tacos and cheesy breadsticks, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. These handheld treats feature seasoned ground beef and melted cheese encased in golden-brown pizza dough, offering a burst of flavor in every bite.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • For the Filling:

    • 1 pound lean ground beef
    • 1 packet taco seasoning
    • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • For the Dough:

    • 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
  • For the Topping:

    • 1/4 cup melted butter
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (218°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lightly spraying it with cooking spray.

  2. Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning, stirring well to combine. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.

  3. Prepare the Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a clean surface and cut it into 10 equal rectangles.

  4. Assemble the Sticks: Place a spoonful of the seasoned beef and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each dough rectangle. Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges to seal and form a stick shape.

  5. Add Toppings: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this mixture over the top of each assembled stick.

  6. Bake: Arrange the sticks on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown.

  7. Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These sticks pair well with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.


Notes

  • Cheese Options: While cheddar is recommended, mozzarella or Colby Jack cheese sticks can also be used for a different flavor profile.

  • Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or conventional oven to maintain crispiness.

  • Customization: Feel free to add diced jalapeños or onions to the filling for an extra kick.


Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 stick
  • Calories: 255kcal
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 365mg
  • Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 7g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 19g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 11g
  • Cholesterol: 45mg

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