A Delicious and Fun Twist on Tacos
Cheesy taco sticks take the classic flavors of tacos and wrap them in a warm, golden-brown crust, making them perfect for a snack, appetizer, or quick meal. These handheld delights feature seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheese, and a crispy, golden-baked dough that makes them irresistible.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, these taco sticks come together quickly.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for parties, game nights, or family dinners.
- Customizable: Adjust the filling to suit your preferences with different cheeses, meats, or seasonings.
- Portable: No utensils required—just grab and enjoy!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Optional: sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Taco Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Taco Sticks
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle and cut it into 8 equal strips.
- Mix the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses together.
- Place a spoonful of seasoned beef and a generous sprinkle of cheese onto one side of each dough strip.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the stuffed taco sticks on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush the tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Add Finishing Touches
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.
- Brush the warm taco sticks with the butter mixture.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese for unique flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with seasoned black beans or refried beans.
- Breakfast Version: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and cheese.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 8 taco sticks
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each taco stick in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep taco sticks from opening while baking?
Make sure to pinch the edges tightly and use a little water if needed to seal them.
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?
Yes! Crescent roll dough will give a flakier texture but works just as well.
What dipping sauces go best with taco sticks?
Sour cream, guacamole, queso, salsa, or even ranch dressing pair wonderfully.
Can I prepare taco sticks ahead of time?
Yes, assemble them in advance and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Can I air-fry taco sticks?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I make them extra crispy?
Brush with egg wash before baking and bake until deeply golden brown.
Are there gluten-free options?
Use gluten-free pizza dough or tortillas for a gluten-free version.
Can I use leftover taco meat?
Absolutely! This is a great way to repurpose leftover taco-seasoned beef.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat as needed.
Can I make mini taco sticks for parties?
Yes! Cut the dough into smaller pieces to make bite-sized versions.
Conclusion
Cheesy taco sticks are a fun, easy, and delicious twist on classic tacos. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, party snack, or quick meal, these cheesy, flavorful sticks are sure to be a hit. Customize them to your liking and enjoy every crispy, cheesy bite!
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Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 taco stiks 1x
Description
Cheesy taco sticks are a fun, easy twist on tacos, featuring seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy baked dough. Perfect for snacks, parties, or quick meals!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Optional: sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping
Instructions
Prepare the Taco Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and water.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes to blend flavors. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Taco Sticks
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle and cut into 8 equal strips.
- Mix the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses together.
- Place a spoonful of seasoned beef and a generous sprinkle of cheese onto one side of each dough strip.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the stuffed taco sticks on the baking sheet.
- Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Add Finishing Touches
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.
- Brush the warm taco sticks with the butter mixture.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with seasoned black beans or refried beans.
- Breakfast Version: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack,dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: mexican inspired
Keywords: Cheesy taco sticks, taco appetizer, baked taco snacks, easy taco recipe, game day snacks
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 taco stiks 1x
Description
Cheesy taco sticks are a fun, easy twist on tacos, featuring seasoned beef, melted cheese, and crispy baked dough. Perfect for snacks, parties, or quick meals!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- ¾ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
- 1 tbsp butter, melted
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
- Optional: sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping
Instructions
1. Prepare the Taco Filling
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Drain any excess grease, then stir in the taco seasoning and water.
- Simmer for about 5 minutes to blend flavors. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Taco Sticks
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle and cut into 8 equal strips.
- Mix the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses together.
- Place a spoonful of seasoned beef and a generous sprinkle of cheese onto one side of each dough strip.
- Fold the dough over the filling and pinch the edges tightly to seal.
3. Bake to Perfection
- Arrange the stuffed taco sticks on the baking sheet.
- Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Add Finishing Touches
- Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.
- Brush the warm taco sticks with the butter mixture.
5. Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes
- Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the beef mixture.
- Different Cheeses: Try pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or Colby cheese.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with seasoned black beans or refried beans.
- Breakfast Version: Fill with scrambled eggs, cooked sausage, and cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack,dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Keywords: Cheesy taco sticks, taco appetizer, baked taco snacks, easy taco recipe, game day snacks
