Cheesy Taco Sticks Twist

This cheesy taco stick recipe transforms taco night into a fun handheld treat that's perfect for game days, quick dinners, or satisfying snack cravings. The combination of seasoned ground beef and melty cheese all wrapped in golden pizza dough creates an irresistible bite that both kids and adults will love.

I first made these taco sticks for my nephew's birthday party as an alternative to regular tacos. They were such a hit that they've become our family's go to request for movie nights and casual gatherings.

Ingredients

• Ground beef: Creates the hearty base. Choose 80/20 for best flavor
• Taco seasoning packet: Offers convenience and consistent flavor
• Pillsbury Pizza Dough: Provides the perfect golden wrapper
• Cheese sticks: Ensure that perfect melty stretch. Use colby and cheddar for classic flavor
• Butter: Creates that irresistible golden finish
• Garlic powder: Adds aromatic flavor to the butter coating
• Dried parsley: Brings a touch of color and subtle herbal notes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat Oven:

Set oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier. A properly preheated oven ensures the dough cooks evenly and gets that perfect golden color.

Brown The Beef:

Cook ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until no pink remains. Break it into small crumbles as it cooks for even texture. Drain excess fat to prevent greasy taco sticks. Add the full packet of taco seasoning according to package instructions which typically includes adding water and simmering until thickened.

Prepare The Dough:

Unroll the pizza dough onto a lightly floured surface. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to divide the dough into 10 equal rectangles. The rectangles should be approximately 3x5 inches each to properly wrap around the filling.

Assemble The Taco Sticks:

Place about 2 tablespoons of the seasoned beef in the center of each dough rectangle. Add half a cheese stick on top of the beef. Starting with the long edge fold the dough over the filling and pinch all edges firmly to create a tight seal. Place each stick seam side down on the baking sheet spacing them at least 1 inch apart.

Create Garlic Butter Coating:

Melt butter in a small microwave safe bowl. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley until well combined. Use a pastry brush to generously coat the top and sides of each taco stick. This creates a flavorful golden crust.

Bake To Perfection:

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. Watch for the dough to turn golden brown and puff slightly. You may see some cheese bubbling from small openings which is a good sign they are ready.

Serve And Enjoy:

Let the taco sticks cool for about 5 minutes before serving. This prevents burning and allows the cheese to set slightly. Arrange on a serving platter with small bowls of salsa sour cream and guacamole for dipping.

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The first time I made these taco sticks my kitchen filled with the most incredible aroma of seasoned beef and garlic butter. My absolute favorite part is when you take that first bite and the melty cheese stretches out in those perfect Instagram worthy cheese pulls. These have saved many busy weeknights in our house.

Make Ahead Options

These taco sticks are perfect for meal planning. You can prepare them completely through the baking stage, then cool and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes until heated through. For longer storage, freeze the cooled taco sticks in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen sticks in a 375°F oven for 15-20 minutes until hot throughout.

Customization Ideas

The beauty of these taco sticks lies in their versatility. Try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option. Vegetarians can substitute black beans mashed with taco seasoning. Add corn, diced bell peppers, or black olives to the beef mixture for extra flavor and nutrition. For breakfast taco sticks, use scrambled eggs with chorizo and pepper jack cheese. You can even create a sweet version using cinnamon sugar butter and cream cheese filling.

Serving Suggestions

While these taco sticks are delicious on their own, they shine brightest as part of a larger spread. Serve them alongside a simple green salad with avocado and lime dressing for a complete meal. For entertaining, create a dipping station with multiple options like ranch dressing, queso, pico de gallo, and hot sauce. They pair perfectly with Mexican rice or corn salad for a more substantial dinner. For a fun presentation, stand the sticks upright in a tall glass or jar surrounded by dipping sauces.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can use puff pastry or crescent roll dough as alternatives. Adjust baking time if needed.

→ What other cheeses can I use?

You can try mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or Pepper Jack for a unique flavor twist.

→ How can I make these spicier?

Add jalapeño slices to the filling or use spicy taco seasoning for a kick.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the sticks, then refrigerate or freeze them before baking. Adjust baking times accordingly.

→ What dips pair well with these?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or queso dip complement the flavors perfectly.