If you are searching for the ultimate game day snack or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe will quickly become your go-to favorite. Crisp on the outside with a buttery garlic-herb finish, and bursting with savory seasoned ground beef and ooey-gooey melted cheese inside, these sticks combine the irresistible flavors of tacos and cheesy bread in one handheld delight. Ready in just 22 minutes and perfect for sharing, the Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe offers a fun twist on classic flavors that both kids and adults will rave about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of simple ingredients, each plays an important role in crafting the perfect balance of hearty, cheesy, and buttery flavors and textures in this dish. Every component is essential, from the seasoned ground beef bringing bold taco goodness, to the pizza dough that creates a tender yet crisp exterior, not to mention the melty cheeses that make every bite pure comfort.
- 1 lb. ground beef: Use fresh, lean ground beef to get that rich meaty base without excess grease.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning): This brings authentic taco flavor with a perfect blend of spices.
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough: Easy to work with and crisps beautifully when baked, forming the perfect holder for the filling.
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks (halved): Combining creamy and sharp cheeses adds depth and gooey texture.
- 4 tbsp butter (melted): Brushed on top to create that irresistible golden, crispy finish.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a punch of savory flavor when mixed with the butter.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: For a little fresh herb aroma and a pop of color.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to a toasty 425 degrees F and get a large baking sheet ready by lightly coating it with non-stick spray. This will ensure your taco sticks don’t stick and bake to a perfect crisp.
Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it up with a wooden spoon to get that nice crumbled texture. Once fully cooked, drain excess fat to keep the filling from getting greasy. Return the skillet to the stove and stir in the taco seasoning—no water needed! Mixing it right into the beef concentrates the bold taco flavors. Let it cool to room temperature before assembling to keep the dough from becoming soggy.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the pizza dough and flatten it evenly. Cut it in half lengthwise, then make four cuts across the width, ending up with 10 evenly sized rectangles. These will become the perfect little pockets for our cheesy taco filling.
Step 4: Assemble the Cheesy Taco Sticks
Spoon about a tablespoon or more of the seasoned taco meat right onto the center of each dough rectangle. Top with half a cheese stick—this combo of colby jack and cheddar melts beautifully and pairs fantastically with the taco beef. Carefully roll each dough piece around the filling, making sure to pinch and seal all seams closed to avoid any leaks during baking.
Step 5: Add Garlic Butter and Bake
Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley in a small bowl. Brush this flavorful mixture generously on top of each taco stick, giving them that golden sheen and a wonderful aroma as they bake. Place them on your prepared baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the tops turn a gorgeous golden brown. Serve hot for the best molten-cheese experience!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
To dress up your Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions right on top after baking for a burst of freshness and a pop of color. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of your favorite salsa can bring an extra tangy kick that pairs perfectly.
Side Dishes
These cheesy taco sticks work wonderfully alongside a simple green salad with zesty lime vinaigrette, or a bowl of guacamole and tortilla chips for an authentic taco night feel. For added comfort, pair with mexi-rice or refried beans to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serving these on a rustic wooden board or a brightly colored platter adds festive fun. You can also stand the sticks upright in a tall glass or mason jar for easy grabbing at parties. Try arranging them in a circular pattern around a bowl of salsa or queso dip for a lively presentation that invites sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick snacks or next-day treats.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, you can freeze the assembled, unbaked taco sticks by placing them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time. This way, you’ll have convenient homemade snacks always on hand.
Reheating
To reheat refrigerated or frozen Cheesy Taco Sticks, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350-degree oven for 8-10 minutes until heated through and the crust feels crisp again. Microwaving can make them soggy, so oven reheating is best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for the Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe?
Absolutely! While colby jack and cheddar work beautifully for meltiness and flavor, feel free to experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for different tastes and textures.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat substitute or seasoned black beans to keep that taco flavor without the meat. Just cook and season the filling the same way before assembling.
Can I prepare the taco filling in advance?
Definitely. You can cook and season the ground beef up to a day ahead and store it in the fridge. This saves time on busy days and allows for faster assembly when you’re ready to bake.
What kind of dipping sauces go well with the Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe?
Classic options include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or a creamy queso dip. You can also try chipotle mayo or a tangy cilantro-lime crema for something a little different.
How do I prevent the cheesy taco sticks from leaking cheese during baking?
The key is to pinch all seams tightly when rolling up the sticks. Using a fork or your fingers to crimp the edges helps seal the filling inside, keeping cheese and meat beautifully contained.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe is a spectacular crowd-pleaser that combines the best parts of tacos and cheesy bread in one easy-to-make treat. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting game day, or just craving some comfort food, these sticks deliver bold flavor and satisfying textures with every bite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing them as much as I do!
Print
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 10 cheesy taco sticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful appetizer or snack featuring seasoned ground beef and melty cheese wrapped in golden, buttery pizza dough. These handheld treats are perfect for parties, game day, or a tasty family snack, baked to crispy perfection with a garlic parsley butter glaze.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks (halved)
For the Topping
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F (220 degrees C) and lightly coat a large baking sheet with non-stick spray. This ensures even baking and prevents sticking.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until fully browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat, return the skillet to the stovetop, then stir in the taco seasoning packet without adding water. Mix until the beef is fully coated with seasoning. Remove from heat and allow it to cool to room temperature to make handling easier.
- Prepare the Pizza Dough: Roll out the pizza dough flat on a clean surface. Cut it lengthwise in half, then cut four pieces up and down each half, creating a total of 10 small rectangular pieces perfect for rolling.
- Assemble the Taco Sticks: Place about a tablespoon or more of the cooled taco meat in the center of each dough rectangle. Top each with a halved cheese stick. Carefully roll up each piece of dough, making sure to pinch all seams closed to keep the filling inside during baking.
- Brush with Garlic Butter and Bake: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush this flavorful mixture on top of each rolled taco stick. Place them on the prepared baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve hot. These cheesy taco sticks can be enjoyed on their own or with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- Allow the cooked taco meat to cool before assembling to prevent the dough from becoming soggy.
- Make sure to pinch the dough seams tightly to avoid cheese or filling leaking out while baking.
- For an extra kick, add diced jalapeños to the taco meat before assembling.
- These sticks can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness.
- Homemade taco seasoning can be used as a substitute for the packet if preferred.
