Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful twist on taco night! The combination of seasoned ground beef and gooey Colby Jack cheese, all wrapped in soft pizza dough, makes for an irresistible treat. Perfect for any occasion—whether it’s dinner, appetizers at a party, or game day snacks—these cheesy delights will impress your guests and family alike. Their unique presentation and flavor make them a standout choice that everyone will love.

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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 Cheese
• For Topping
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef
• Step 3: Add Seasoning
• Step 4: Prepare Pizza Dough
• Step 5: Fill Taco Sticks
• Step 6: Fold and Seal
• Step 7: Brush with Seasoned Butter
• Step 8: Bake
• How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
• For Game Day
• As an Appetizer
• Family Dinner
• How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What are Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• Can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• How do I make Cheesy Taco Sticks healthier?
• What dipping sauces go well with Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• How long do Cheesy Taco Sticks last?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up these cheesy delights effortlessly.
• Kid-Friendly: These taco sticks are perfect for picky eaters. The familiar flavors of taco night in a fun shape make it easy to enjoy.
• Versatile Options: You can customize the filling by adding veggies or using different cheeses to suit your taste.
• Great For Sharing: Serving these cheesy taco sticks at gatherings will surely delight your guests and keep them coming back for more.
• Savory Flavor Explosion: The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese wrapped in dough creates a delicious taste that appeals to all.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Rolling pin (optional)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: They provide a sturdy base for baking the taco sticks evenly without burning.
• Parchment paper: Using parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.
• Skillet: A good skillet is essential for browning the meat properly before assembling the taco sticks.

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 Cheese

• 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks

For 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 (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prepare them for baking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until fully browned, about 5–7 minutes.
2. Drain excess fat from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Add minced garlic, taco seasoning, and water as directed on the seasoning package:
1. Stir everything together.
2. Cook over high heat for 2–3 minutes until most of the water evaporates.
3. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare Pizza Dough

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

Step 5: Fill Taco Sticks

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

Step 6: Fold and Seal

Fold up the sides of each dough square:
1. Pinch firmly to seal all sides.
2. Ensure they are seam-side down on the baking sheet to prevent opening during baking.

Step 7: Brush with Seasoned Butter

In a small bowl:
1. Melt butter in the microwave.
2. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley.
3. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of each taco stick.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in preheated oven for 12–14 minutes until golden brown and puffy.

Enjoy these cheesy delights warm out of the oven!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Whether you’re hosting a game day party or enjoying a casual dinner, these taco sticks can be paired with delicious sides and dips to enhance the experience.

For Game Day

• Salsa: A zesty salsa adds freshness and a kick. Choose mild or spicy based on your preference.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast to the cheesy filling.
• Sour Cream: This classic dip cools down the spicy flavors and adds creaminess.

As an Appetizer

• Mini Salad Cups: Serve small salad portions for a fresh bite alongside the cheesy taco sticks.
• Veggie Platter: Crisp vegetables like carrots and celery pair well with ranch dip for a crunchy side.
• Buffalo Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, buffalo sauce offers a fiery touch that complements the taco sticks.

Family Dinner

• Rice: Fluffy rice, either plain or seasoned, makes for a filling side that balances the dish.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and fiber while enhancing the Tex-Mex theme.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

To achieve the best results with your Cheesy Taco Sticks, follow these tips for perfecting your recipe every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ground beef and new pizza dough enhance flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overfill: Keep the filling moderate to prevent bursting during baking. About 3 tablespoons works well.
• Seal Well: Ensure all edges are tightly sealed to keep the filling intact while baking.
• Experiment with Cheese: While Colby Jack is great, try other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor variations.
• Monitor Baking Time: Every oven is different; check on them a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overcooking.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Pairing sides with your Cheesy Taco Sticks can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Mexican Rice: Flavored with spices and herbs, it’s a delicious accompaniment that rounds out your meal.
2. Corn Salsa: A refreshing corn salsa adds sweetness and crunch, enhancing the overall taste experience.
3. Black Bean Salad: This protein-packed salad is both nutritious and tasty, making it an excellent side choice.
4. Chips and Queso Dip: Crunchy tortilla chips served with warm queso dip create a satisfying snack.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn with lime, cheese, and spices makes for an irresistible side dish.
6. Cilantro Lime Slaw: Crisp slaw tossed in cilantro and lime dressing adds brightness to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

It’s easy to make a few common mistakes when preparing Cheesy Taco Sticks. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold Dough Handling: Overstretching the pizza dough can cause it to tear. Handle it gently and don’t pull too hard when shaping.
• Bold Meat Cooking: Not cooking the meat thoroughly may lead to an unsafe meal. Ensure the ground beef is fully browned before adding seasonings.
• Bold Insufficient Seasoning: Skipping the taco seasoning can result in bland taco sticks. Always follow the recommended amount for optimal flavor.
• Bold Overfilling: Adding too much filling can cause the dough to burst during baking. Stick to about 3 tablespoons of meat for each stick.
• Bold Ignoring Baking Time: Underbaking may leave your taco sticks doughy. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes for that perfect golden brown color.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Wrap individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10-12 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but this may soften the dough.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, flipping occasionally, until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Cheesy Taco Sticks are delicious snacks made with seasoned ground beef and cheese wrapped in pizza dough, baked until golden brown.

Can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Absolutely! You can modify the fillings by adding vegetables, different cheeses, or beans for a vegetarian option.

How do I make Cheesy Taco Sticks healthier?

Consider using lean ground turkey or plant-based meat alternatives and whole wheat pizza dough for a healthier twist.

What dipping sauces go well with Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream make excellent dipping options that complement the flavors of your cheesy taco sticks.

How long do Cheesy Taco Sticks last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, they can last up to 3 days. If frozen, they will keep for about 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks are not only fun but also versatile. They work great as appetizers, snacks, or even dinner! Feel free to customize them with your favorite ingredients or dips. Try these delightful sticks today!