Cheesy Taco Sticks
These Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect blend of buttery goodness and a cheesy taco filling that will delight both kids and adults alike! Ideal for parties, game nights, or a quick family dinner, these sticks are easy to make and even easier to devour. With their crispy exterior and melty cheese inside, they stand out as a fun twist on traditional tacos.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Kid-Friendly: These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a hit with children, making them perfect for picky eaters.
- Quick to Prepare: In just 22 minutes, you can whip up this delicious appetizer.
- Versatile Toppings: Enjoy them plain or pair with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, these sticks fit right in.
- Simple Ingredients: Made from common pantry items, these Cheesy Taco Sticks are easy to assemble.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes preparing Cheesy Taco Sticks efficient and fun.
Grab This Chef Knife Now - Almost Gone!
- Stays Razor-Sharp: Ice-hardened blade keeps its edge longer than ordinary knives
- Superior Grip Control: Unique finger hole design gives you perfect balance and safety
- Built to Last a Lifetime: Premium stainless steel blade with elegant beech wood handle
Customer Reviews ★★★★★
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large baking sheet
- Skillet
- Wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick spray
Importance of Each Tool
- Large baking sheet: Provides ample space for all your cheesy taco sticks to bake evenly without overcrowding.
- Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef perfectly before mixing in the taco seasoning.
- Mixing bowl: Ideal for combining melted butter with garlic powder and parsley to brush on top of your sticks.
Ingredients
These super simple Cheesy Taco Sticks are buttery breadsticks filled with taco meat and lots of cheese! The kids will love them!
- 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)
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F. This ensures that your Cheesy Taco Sticks bake evenly and become golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Lightly coat a large baking sheet with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the filling.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef. Break it up with a wooden spoon until fully browned and crumbled.
1. Drain any excess fat.
2. Return the skillet to stovetop.
3. Mix in the taco seasoning packet without adding water. Stir until the beef is fully coated.
4. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Step 4: Prepare the Pizza Dough
Spread out the pizza dough until it is flat. Cut it in half lengthwise, then make four cuts across, resulting in ten small rectangles.
Step 5: Assemble the Cheesy Taco Sticks
- Place about a tablespoon or more of taco meat in the center of each rectangle.
- Top with a halved cheese stick.
- Carefully roll up each rectangle, pinching all seams closed to secure the filling.
Step 6: Brush with Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture on top of each rolled stick for added flavor.
Step 7: Bake
Place your prepared Cheesy Taco Sticks on the baking sheet and bake for 10 to 12 minutes or until they are golden brown on top.
Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings! Enjoy this delightful treat that everyone will love!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and delicious treat that can be served in various ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a game day snack, these cheesy delights are sure to please everyone!
With Dipping Sauces
- Sour Cream – A classic choice that adds creaminess to each bite.
- Guacamole – This creamy avocado dip pairs perfectly with the taco flavors.
- Salsa – Fresh salsa adds a zesty kick that complements the cheesy goodness.
As Part of a Taco Bar
- Taco Fixings – Set out toppings like lettuce, diced tomatoes, and shredded cheese for customizable bites.
- Chips and Salsa – Serve alongside tortilla chips for a complete taco experience.
- Refried Beans – These add a hearty element to your meal and go great with the sticks.
With Fresh Vegetables
- Carrot Sticks – Crunchy and refreshing, they provide a nice contrast to the warm cheesy sticks.
- Celery Sticks – Another crisp option that pairs well with dips.
As an Appetizer
- Mini Salad Cups – Light salads in cups make for a refreshing appetizer before the main event.
- Stuffed Jalapeños – Spicy stuffed peppers will excite those who crave heat alongside their cheesy treats.
How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks
To make your Cheesy Taco Sticks even better, follow these simple tips. They will enhance the flavor and texture of your dish!
- Use Fresh Dough – For the best texture, opt for fresh pizza dough rather than pre-packaged options.
- Customize Seasoning – Feel free to add extra spices like cumin or chili powder to the meat for more flavor.
- Don’t Overfill – Be careful not to overstuff each stick; this helps them cook evenly and keeps them from bursting open.
- Watch Your Bake Time – Keep an eye on the oven; every oven is different, and you want them golden brown without burning.
Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks
Pairing side dishes with your Cheesy Taco Sticks can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options!
- Mexican Rice – Flavorful rice adds substance and complements the taco flavors nicely.
- Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and avocado offers great nutrition.
- Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn is a delightful side that balances out the richness of the cheesy sticks.
- Chili Con Queso – This creamy cheese dip is perfect for those who love extra cheese!
- Coleslaw – A crunchy slaw can add freshness and acidity to your meal.
- Baked Potatoes – Simple baked potatoes can serve as an excellent base for toppings leftover from taco night.
- Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can provide a sweet contrast to savory dishes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Cheesy Taco Sticks can be straightforward, but there are a few common errors to watch out for. Here are some mistakes that could affect your outcome.
- Overfilling the dough: Placing too much taco meat or cheese in each stick can cause them to burst. Use just enough filling to keep them intact while baking.
- Not sealing the seams properly: If the seams are not pinched closed well, the filling may leak out during baking. Ensure you press the edges firmly to create a tight seal.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allowing the taco meat to cool before using it in the dough is essential. Hot filling can make the dough soggy and difficult to roll.
- Underbaking or overbaking: Keep an eye on your Cheesy Taco Sticks while they bake. Baking them too long can make them hard, while underbaking may leave them doughy inside.
- Neglecting seasoning: Not seasoning your meat properly with taco seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Follow the instructions carefully for maximum taste.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks
- Wrap each Cheesy Taco Stick individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.
Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on high for about 30-60 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Taco Sticks.
How can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?
You can add different types of cheese or mix in vegetables like bell peppers or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I use pre-cooked meat for Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Yes! You can use pre-cooked taco meat; just ensure it’s heated thoroughly before assembling your sticks.
What sauces pair well with Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Sour cream, salsa, or guacamole make excellent dipping sauces for these delicious sticks!
Are Cheesy Taco Sticks kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Kids love cheesy flavors and the fun shape of these sticks, making them perfect for picky eaters.
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Taco Sticks are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them to suit your family’s tastes by adding extra ingredients or toppings. Give this recipe a try for a delightful snack or appetizer that everyone will love!
Cheesy Taco Sticks
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 10 Cheesy Taco Sticks 1x
Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate snack that combines the buttery goodness of breadsticks with a savory taco filling, making them irresistible for both kids and adults. Perfect for parties, game nights, or a quick family dinner, these easy-to-make treats feature a crispy exterior that encases melty cheese and seasoned ground beef. Serve them with your favorite dips like salsa or guacamole for a delightful twist on traditional tacos.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks (halved)
- 4 tbsp butter (melted)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 425°F and lightly coat a large baking sheet with non-stick spray.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat and mix in taco seasoning; let cool.
- Roll out pizza dough, cut into ten rectangles, and fill each with a tablespoon of taco meat and half a cheese stick. Roll up and seal seams.
- Brush tops with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and parsley.
- Bake for 10-12 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Cheesy Taco Stick (55g)
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
