Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate game-changer for taco night! Combining seasoned ground beef with melty Colby Jack cheese, all wrapped in soft pizza dough, they are perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to fun appetizers and even game day snacks. Their gooey texture and flavorful filling make them a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, these cheesy taco sticks are a breeze to whip up.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfect for picky eaters, these treats make healthy eating more fun!
• Versatile Snack: Serve them as a main dish or finger food at parties and gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of taco seasoning and melted cheese offers a delicious flavor explosion.
• Make Ahead Option: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble them when you’re ready to bake.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these delicious cheesy taco sticks, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking, ensuring your taco sticks come off the sheet easily.
• Skillet: Necessary for cooking the ground beef evenly and quickly.
• Knife: Used for cutting the dough into squares and slicing cheese sticks.

Ingredients

For the Taco Filling

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1 package taco seasoning (plus water as directed on the package)

For the Dough and Cheese

• 2 cans Pillsbury pizza dough
• 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks

For the Topping

• ¼ cup unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley

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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 ensure your taco sticks bake evenly without sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook the ground beef, stirring frequently until it’s fully browned (about 5–7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Add in minced garlic, taco seasoning, and water as per the package instructions.
4. Continue cooking over high heat for 2–3 minutes, until most of the water has evaporated. Remove from heat.

Step 3: Prepare the Dough Squares

Unroll one can of pizza dough onto one of your prepared baking sheets:
1. Shape it into a rectangle measuring about 12×8 inches.
2. Cut this into six even squares (4×4 inches each).
3. Repeat this process with the second can of pizza dough for a total of twelve squares.

Step 4: Assemble Taco Sticks

For each square:
1. Scoop approximately 3 tablespoons of the taco meat mixture into the center of the square.
2. Cut each cheese stick in half and place one half on top of the meat filling.
3. Fold up the sides of the dough over the filling and pinch to seal securely.
4. Fold and seal both ends towards the seam side. Place seam-side down on your baking sheet, being careful not to overstretch the dough.

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake

1. Melt unsalted butter in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley.
3. Brush this seasoned butter over each taco stick generously.
4. Bake in preheated oven for about 12–14 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffed up.

Enjoy these cheesy taco sticks as a delightful treat that everyone will rave about!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are not just a meal; they are a fun and versatile dish perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a casual dinner, or looking for snacks during game day, these sticks can be served in various ways to delight your guests.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream: A classic choice that adds creaminess and balances the flavors.
• Guacamole: Fresh and creamy, this avocado dip complements the taco flavors beautifully.
• Salsa: A zesty option that adds freshness and spice to each bite.

As Part of a Platter

• Veggie Tray: Serve with fresh veggies like carrots, celery, and bell peppers for a crunchy contrast.
• Chips and Dip: Pair with tortilla chips alongside salsa or queso for an exciting snack spread.

For Kids’ Parties

• Mini Taco Sticks: Cut the sticks into smaller pieces for easy handling by little fingers.
• Fun Plates: Use colorful plates or themed designs to make the meal more appealing to kids.

With a Side Salad

• Taco Salad: Top mixed greens with chopped tomatoes, cheese, and taco seasoning for an easy side.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad adds sweetness and texture that pairs well with cheesy taco sticks.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

To achieve the best Cheesy Taco Sticks every time, consider these helpful tips that can enhance flavor and texture.

• Bold Seasoning: Make sure to season your ground beef well. Adding extra spices can give it more depth.
• Keep Dough Cold: Using chilled pizza dough helps maintain its elasticity and prevents it from becoming too stretchy when you shape it.
• Seal Properly: Take care to pinch the seams tightly. This prevents any delicious filling from leaking out during baking.
• Brush Generously: Don’t skimp on brushing the tops with seasoned butter—it adds flavor and creates a beautiful golden crust.
• Watch the Bake Time: Keep an eye on the oven towards the end of cooking. Every oven is different, so adjust time as needed for perfect browning.

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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 perfectly.

1. Mexican Rice: Fluffy rice mixed with tomatoes and spices makes a hearty side.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy beans add protein and richness to your meal.
3. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with butter brings sweetness to balance the savory taco sticks.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw offers refreshing contrast and cuts through richness.
5. Chips & Salsa Verde: Tortilla chips paired with tangy salsa verde provide an additional crunch factor.
6. Black Bean Salad: A cold bean salad loaded with vegetables is nutritious and flavorful.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the seasoning: Not adding enough taco seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to follow the package instructions for the best taste.
• Overstretching the dough: When shaping the pizza dough, stretching too much can cause it to tear. Handle it gently to maintain its integrity.
• Ignoring the baking time: Baking for too long can result in burnt taco sticks. Keep an eye on them and remove them once they are golden brown.
• Not sealing properly: If you don’t seal the dough well, the filling may leak out during baking. Pinch all seams tightly before placing them on the baking sheet.
• Forgetting to preheat: Not preheating your oven can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat to 425°F before baking for optimal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Place cooled Cheesy Taco Sticks in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

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 about 30-45 seconds, but this may make them soft.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium in a skillet, covered, for about 5 minutes or until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What variations can I try with Cheesy Taco Sticks?

You can customize Cheesy Taco Sticks by using different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added spice. Add vegetables like bell peppers or onions to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

How do I serve Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Cheesy Taco Sticks are perfect as appetizers at parties or game day snacks. Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.

Can I use other types of dough?

Yes! You can experiment with crescent roll dough or even homemade dough if you prefer a different texture.

Are these Cheesy Taco Sticks kid-friendly?

Absolutely! The cheesy filling and fun shape make them appealing for kids. They are great for picky eaters who enjoy hands-on meals.

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are not only a delightful twist on traditional tacos but also versatile enough for various occasions. Whether you’re making them for dinner, hosting a party, or preparing game day snacks, they’re sure to please everyone. Feel free to customize your filling with different meats or veggies based on personal preferences!