Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate crowd-pleaser, giving a fun twist to taco night! Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or a casual dinner, these delicious sticks combine seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese wrapped in pizza dough. With a crispy garlic butter finish, they are sure to become a favorite snack or meal for any taco lover.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple enough for busy weeknights. With minimal prep and cooking time, you can have a tasty meal ready in just 25 minutes.
• Flavorful Filling: The combination of seasoned beef and melted cheese creates an irresistible flavor that satisfies your cravings.
• Versatile Snack: Whether served as an appetizer at parties or a main dish for taco night, these cheese-filled delights are perfect for any occasion.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or spices to the filling for a personal touch. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love these cheesy treats! They make for a fun cooking project that the whole family can enjoy together.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Cheesy Taco Sticks, you will need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Rolling pin

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the taco sticks evenly.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes clean-up a breeze.
• Skillet: Essential for browning the ground beef and mixing it with taco seasoning.

Ingredients

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun, cheesy twist on taco night! Packed with seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, all wrapped up in pizza dough and brushed with garlic butter, they’re the perfect snack or meal for any taco lover.

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
2. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the taco seasoning to the beef according to the instructions on the packet. Stir to combine and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Pizza Dough

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

Step 4: Assemble the Taco Sticks

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

Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter

In a small bowl:
1. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley.
2. Brush this mixture generously over each taco stick.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes:
– Look for golden brown color and ensure they are fully cooked through.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Allow the taco sticks to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are not just delicious on their own; they can be enhanced with a variety of dips and sides. Here are some fun serving suggestions to elevate your cheesy experience.

With Dips

• Salsa: Fresh tomato salsa adds a zesty kick that complements the cheesy filling.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip provides a smooth contrast to the crunchy taco sticks.
• Sour Cream: A classic choice, sour cream brings coolness that balances the spices in the taco sticks.

As Part of a Meal

• Taco Salad: Serve alongside a fresh taco salad for a complete meal that’s full of flavor.
• Mexican Rice: A side of fluffy Mexican rice pairs well and rounds out the dish beautifully.
• Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn offers a delightful crunch that enhances the overall taste experience.

For Parties

• Platter Style: Arrange Cheesy Taco Sticks on a large platter with various dips for an appealing party spread.
• Mini Tacos: Complement the sticks with mini tacos for an interactive dining experience.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

Making perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your taco sticks turn out amazing every time.

• Bold Flavoring: Use plenty of seasoning in your ground beef. This enhances the overall flavor and makes each bite enjoyable.
• Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh cheese sticks instead of pre-packaged ones for better melting and taste.
• Seal Properly: Make sure to pinch the edges tightly when rolling your dough. This helps keep all the goodness inside while baking.
• Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on brushing with garlic butter. It adds flavor and promotes a beautiful golden color during baking.
• Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on them in the oven. Remove once they are golden brown for best texture.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix different types of cheese for added flavor or texture. Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack could provide a spicy twist.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Adding side dishes can enhance your Cheesy Taco Sticks experience. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn coated in creamy sauce and cheese; it’s flavorful and fun!
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide protein and complement the taco flavors nicely.
3. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with salsa make for a great appetizer before diving into the main event.
4. Mango Salsa: Sweet mango salsa adds brightness and freshness, making it an exciting contrast to savory flavors.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with lime juice and cilantro creates a refreshing side dish that pairs well with tacos.
6. Black Bean Salad: A hearty salad made with black beans, corn, and bell peppers offers nutrients while enhancing flavor profiles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Taco Sticks, it’s easy to run into some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Using too much filling: Overstuffing can cause the taco sticks to burst while baking. Use a small portion of beef and cheese to ensure they roll up nicely.
• Not sealing the edges properly: If the edges aren’t pinched well, the filling might leak out. Make sure to seal each stick tightly before placing them on the baking sheet.
• Skipping the garlic butter: This step adds flavor and a beautiful golden color. Don’t skip it! Brush each taco stick generously for the best taste.
• Baking at an incorrect temperature: Ensure your oven is at 400°F (200°C). If it’s too low, they may not cook through; too high can burn them quickly.
• Serving without dipping sauces: These Cheesy Taco Sticks are delicious on their own, but serving with salsa or guacamole elevates the experience. Always have a dip on hand!

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow taco sticks to cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for about 30-45 seconds. Note that this may make them less crispy.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef in Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a lean alternative. Just be sure to adjust cooking times if needed.

What type of cheese is best for Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Colby jack and cheddar are ideal, but feel free to experiment with your favorites like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for added spice!

How can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?

You can add veggies like bell peppers or onions into the filling, or try different seasonings based on your taste preference.

Can I make these Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare them ahead and refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Just reheat before serving.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks offer an exciting twist on traditional tacos that everyone will love. They’re perfect as snacks or quick meals and can easily be customized with your favorite ingredients. Give this fun recipe a try and enjoy the cheesy goodness!

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Cheesy Taco Sticks

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Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate fusion of flavors that will elevate your taco night into a fun, finger-licking experience. These delightful snacks combine seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, all wrapped in a crispy layer of pizza dough brushed with garlic butter. Perfect for game days, family gatherings, or casual dinners, these cheesy treats are not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a platter that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Get ready to indulge in these irresistible taco sticks that will become a new family favorite!

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 10 1x

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

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, then drain excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning and set aside.
3. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface and cut into 10 equal rectangles.
4. For each rectangle, place some seasoned beef and half a cheese stick on top. Roll tightly and seal edges well.
5. Place each stick seam-side down on the baking sheet.
6. Mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley; brush over the sticks.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stick
• Calories: 190
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 430mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 9g
• Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for added flavor. Add veggies like diced bell peppers or onions into the filling for extra nutrition.