Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful twist on traditional taco night! With seasoned ground beef and melted Colby Jack cheese wrapped in soft pizza dough, they are perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to game day snacks. These taco sticks are not only easy to make but also a surefire way to impress your friends and family with their cheesy goodness.

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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 the Cheese
• For Brushing
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets
• Step 3: Cook Ground Beef
• Step 4: Add Flavor
• Step 5: Roll Out Pizza Dough
• Step 6: Fill Each Square
• Step 7: Add Cheese
• Step 8: Seal Taco Sticks
• Step 9: Brush with Seasoned Butter
• Step 10: Bake Until Golden Brown
• How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
• As an Appetizer
• For Dinner
• For Kids’ Lunchboxes
• 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
• How do I make Cheesy Taco Sticks vegetarian?
• Can I use different types of cheese?
• How can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• What dipping sauces pair well with Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With gooey cheese and flavorful beef, these cheesy taco sticks appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them as appetizers, main dishes, or party snacks—perfect for any event!
• Customizable Filling: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like beans, peppers, or different cheeses for a personal touch.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, these taco sticks will satisfy your cravings without keeping you in the kitchen all night.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the deliciousness of Cheesy Taco Sticks, gather the necessary tools for an efficient cooking experience. Having the right equipment makes prep easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Microwave-safe bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even baking, ensuring that your taco sticks cook perfectly without sticking.
• Skillet: Ideal for browning the ground beef and mixing in the flavors of garlic and taco seasoning.

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 the Cheese

• 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks

For Brushing

• 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. This ensures that your cheesy taco sticks bake evenly and achieve that golden brown color.

Step 2: Prepare Baking Sheets

Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.

Step 3: Cook Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef until it is fully browned—about 5–7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.

Step 4: Add Flavor

Add the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and water as indicated on the seasoning package. Cook over high heat for an additional 2–3 minutes until most of the moisture has evaporated. Remove from heat.

Step 5: Roll Out Pizza Dough

Unroll one can of pizza dough onto one of the prepared baking sheets. Shape it into a rectangle measuring approximately 12×8 inches. Cut this into six even squares measuring 4×4 inches each. Repeat this process with the second can of dough.

Step 6: Fill Each Square

Scoop about three tablespoons of the seasoned meat mixture into the center of each dough square.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Cut each cheese stick in half and place one half atop each meat filling.

Step 8: Seal Taco Sticks

Fold up the sides of each dough square and pinch them together to seal. Fold and seal both ends toward the seam side. Place them seam-side down on your baking sheets—be careful not to overstretch!

Step 9: Brush with Seasoned Butter

Melt the unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of each taco stick.

Step 10: Bake Until Golden Brown

Bake in your preheated oven for about 12–14 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffy. Enjoy these cheesy delights fresh out of the oven!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party, for dinner, or as a snack, these tasty treats can fit any occasion.

As an Appetizer

• Game Day Snack: Perfect for munching during the big game, serve with your favorite dips like salsa or guacamole.
• Party Platter: Arrange on a large platter alongside other appetizers to impress your guests.

For Dinner

• Quick Family Meal: Pair with a fresh salad for a complete meal that kids and adults alike will love.
• Taco Night Twist: Serve alongside traditional taco toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream for added fun.

For Kids’ Lunchboxes

• Lunchbox Surprise: Slice into smaller pieces for an easy-to-eat lunch option that kids will be excited to find.
• After-School Snack: A warm snack perfect for recharging after school activities.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

To make sure your Cheesy Taco Sticks turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Pizza Dough: Always use fresh pizza dough for the best texture and flavor; it rises beautifully when baked.
• Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the dough squares; this can cause them to burst open while baking.
• Seal Properly: Ensure all edges are well-sealed to keep the cheesy filling inside during baking.
• Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to try different cheese varieties like mozzarella or pepper jack for extra flavor.
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or green onions after baking can enhance the flavor and presentation.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks pair wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice cooked in tomato sauce and spices complements the flavors of taco sticks perfectly.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty side that adds protein and richness to your meal.
3. Guacamole: A fresh avocado dip that adds creaminess and balances the flavors of the taco sticks beautifully.
4. Corn Salad: Bright and zesty corn salad provides a refreshing contrast to the cheesy richness of taco sticks.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with spicy salsa make for a classic pairing that everyone loves.
6. Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and spices brings vibrant flavors to the table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Taco Sticks, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding taco seasoning can result in bland taco sticks. Always ensure to season the meat thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• Overstretching the dough: Stretching the pizza dough too much can cause it to tear. Handle it gently and keep the fillings well-contained.
• Not preheating the oven: Baking in a cold oven can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your oven to 425°F before baking for best results.
• Ignoring the sealing technique: Failing to seal the edges properly can cause the filling to leak out during baking. Pinch and fold the dough securely.
• Undercooking the beef: If you don’t cook the beef thoroughly, it may not be safe to eat. Ensure it’s fully browned and cooked through.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow Cheesy Taco Sticks to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2 months.
• Layer with parchment paper between taco sticks to prevent sticking.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individually on high for 30 seconds, checking if warm; avoid overheating as they may become soggy.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, covered, for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cheesy Taco Sticks vegetarian?

You can replace ground beef with seasoned black beans or lentils. This will keep your Cheesy Taco Sticks flavorful while catering to vegetarian diets.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella for unique flavors in your Cheesy Taco Sticks.

How can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Add ingredients like diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños into your filling before sealing for extra flavor and texture.

What dipping sauces pair well with Cheesy Taco Sticks?

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

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful twist on traditional tacos that everyone will love. They are perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to game day snacks. Customize them with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

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