Cheesy Taco Sticks

I’ve always loved giving classic recipes a twist, especially when they’re quick, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing. That’s exactly what inspired me to create these Cheesy Taco Sticks. I remember the first time I tested this recipe—it was a hectic weekday evening, and I needed something fast but filling. My family wanted tacos, but I wanted something more handheld, less messy, and still packed with that bold taco flavor. That’s when the idea struck: wrap taco-seasoned beef and gooey cheese inside pizza dough, and bake it until golden. It was an instant hit.

Now, whenever I’m in need of a simple appetizer for gatherings or just a cozy snack for movie nights, these taco sticks make their way into my kitchen. They’re the kind of comfort food that brings people together—kids love them, and adults always ask for the recipe. And the best part? They’re totally customizable. I’ve tried swapping the cheeses or adding a pinch of chili flakes to the butter topping for an extra kick. Every version turns out delicious.

I also love how little time this recipe takes. The dough is store-bought, the filling is minimal yet flavorful, and the result is pure cheesy satisfaction. Whether I’m dipping them in salsa or pairing them with creamy guacamole, these taco sticks never disappoint. They’re also great for meal prep—just reheat in the oven for a few minutes, and they’re as good as freshly baked.

So, if you’re craving something savory, melty, and super easy to whip up, I promise these Cheesy Taco Sticks will become your new go-to. I can’t wait to show you how simple it is to bring them to life.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning mix

• 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough

• 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

How to Bake Cheesy Taco Sticks

To begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures your oven is ready when it’s time to bake, making the process seamless. For easier cleanup, line your baking sheet with parchment paper. It also prevents the dough from sticking and gives the taco sticks a smooth, golden base.

Next, grab a skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and start breaking it apart as it cooks. Continue stirring until it’s nicely browned and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat to avoid soggy filling. Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning and follow the instructions on the packet—usually adding a bit of water and simmering until thickened. This step packs the beef with bold flavor.

Roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough on a floured surface to avoid sticking. Use a knife or pizza cutter to divide the dough into 10 even rectangles. Don’t worry about perfection here—a rustic look adds charm. Once your dough is ready, spoon a portion of the seasoned beef into the center of each rectangle. Be sure to keep the edges clear so sealing is easy.

Place half of a cheese stick on top of the beef. Then, roll the dough around the filling like a mini burrito. Pinch the seams closed tightly so the cheese doesn’t escape during baking. Turn each piece seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. This helps them keep their shape.

In a small bowl, stir together the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Use a pastry brush to coat the tops of each taco stick. This step adds a golden, flavorful crust and makes them irresistibly fragrant. Slide the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Once the dough is golden brown and fully cooked, they’re ready.

Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly. They’ll be hot inside, so give them a few minutes. Serve warm with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping. Each bite delivers that perfect mix of crisp dough, melty cheese, and taco-spiced beef.

How Long to Bake Cheesy Taco Sticks

Baking your Cheesy Taco Sticks is a crucial step to ensure they turn out perfectly golden and crispy. Bake the taco sticks at 400°F (200°C) for about 12-15 minutes. The exact time can vary depending on your oven, so keep an eye on them during the final minutes of baking. You’ll know they’re ready when the dough turns a deep golden brown, and the cheese inside starts to bubble through the edges. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can bake them for an extra minute or two, but be careful not to over-bake them, as this might dry them out.

How to Store Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, storing them properly will help maintain their freshness. Allow the taco sticks to cool completely before storing. Place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), and bake the taco sticks for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again. You can also microwave them, but they may lose some of their crispy texture. For the best result, the oven method is recommended to restore that perfect crunch.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

1. Use Lean Ground Beef: While you can use any type of ground beef, lean beef is ideal for this recipe. It will give you the perfect texture and avoid too much grease that could make your taco sticks soggy. If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.

2. Season the Beef Well: Taco seasoning is key, but feel free to add extra spices if you like things spicier. A pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper can bring in a little heat, and a dash of cumin will enhance the taco flavor.

3. Make It Cheesy: For extra cheesiness, use a mix of cheeses. You can blend colby jack, cheddar, and even mozzarella for a stretchy, gooey filling. The more cheese, the better!

4. Add Veggies: If you want to sneak in some veggies, finely chop some bell peppers, onions, or spinach and add them to the beef mixture. They’ll blend in perfectly without altering the flavor too much.

5. Brush with Garlic Butter Generously: The garlic butter not only helps the taco sticks bake to a golden color, but it also adds an extra layer of flavor. Don’t skimp on this step—it makes a big difference.

6. Serve Immediately: These taco sticks are best served fresh and hot. The longer they sit, the softer the dough may become, so it’s best to enjoy them right out of the oven for that crispy texture.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure that your Cheesy Taco Sticks turn out perfectly every time. They’re a great addition to any meal or snack time and can easily be adapted to fit your taste preferences.

Cheesy Taco Sticks

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• Author: Lena Meeli
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 10 taco sticks 1x

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Description

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a simple yet satisfying treat that brings a fun twist to traditional tacos. Packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and wrapped in a golden, buttery dough, these taco sticks are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, preparing a snack, or looking for an easy dinner, these taco sticks are sure to please everyone. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for the ultimate cheesy experience!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground beef

• 1 packet taco seasoning mix

• 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough

• 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved

• 4 tablespoons butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

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Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

• In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, following the instructions on the seasoning packet. Stir to combine and set aside.

• Roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into 10 equal rectangles.

• Spoon a small portion of the seasoned beef onto each rectangle. Place a halved cheese stick on top of the beef. Roll the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Place the taco sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

• In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over each taco stick.

• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked through.

• Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Notes

• For added crunch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or almonds over the pears before baking.

• These taco sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or enjoy cold.

• If you prefer, substitute the beef with ground turkey for a lighter option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can! If you’d like to prepare these taco sticks in advance, assemble them up to the point of baking. Place them on a baking sheet, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove them from the fridge and let them come to room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking as instructed. This method ensures they stay fresh without sacrificing flavor.

2. Can I use a different type of dough?

Absolutely! While Pillsbury Pizza Dough is a convenient option, you can substitute it with other dough types if you prefer. Crescent roll dough, for instance, will give a slightly flakier texture. You could also try making your own pizza dough from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous, though the prep time will be a bit longer.

3. How do I make these Cheesy Taco Sticks spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, there are a few ways to spice things up. You can add some diced jalapeños or chili peppers to the seasoned beef. Additionally, mixing a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili powder, or even hot sauce into the garlic butter will give your taco sticks an extra kick. Just remember to taste as you go, so you can adjust the spice level to your liking.

4. Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Yes, Cheesy Taco Sticks freeze very well! After baking, let them cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap or foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they will last for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through and crispy. You can also microwave them, though they may not be as crispy.

These FAQs should help with any doubts you may have about preparing, storing, or customizing your Cheesy Taco Sticks. They’re a versatile and easy snack, and with just a few tweaks, you can make them perfectly suited to your tastes!