If you’re searching for the ultimate crowd-pleaser, Cheesy Taco Sticks are about to become your new best friend. These savory snacks pack all the bold flavors of tacos into an ooey-gooey, hand-held roll that’s incredibly easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re hosting game night, gathering the family around the table, or just looking for a snack that’s sure to make everyone smile, Cheesy Taco Sticks deliver comfort, crunch, and a whole lot of cheesy goodness in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how just a handful of ingredients come together to create something truly addictive. Each ingredient has an important role, from flavor-packed beef to melty cheese—don’t skip any for that perfect Cheesy Taco Stick experience!
- 1 pound ground beef: The savory foundation of these taco sticks, rich and satisfying with every bite.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Adds classic taco flavor with just the right balance of spice and aroma.
- 1/4 cup water: Helps blend the seasoning with the beef, keeping it juicy and flavorful.
- 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough: The perfect shortcut for golden, pillowy outsides that hold everything together.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts beautifully for that irresistible gooey center—choose a spicy blend for extra zing!
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted: Brushed on top for a rich, golden finish.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds an aromatic, garlicky kick to every stick.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley: Brightens up the flavor and adds a pop of color.
- Salsa or sour cream, for dipping: The must-have dips for a cool, creamy, or zesty finish—pick your favorite or offer both!
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
Step 1: Get Everything Ready
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This way, you’re all set for assembly and cleanup is a breeze—no sticking, no scrubbing!
Step 2: Cook the Taco Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, brown up the ground beef until it’s cooked all the way through and deliciously crumbly. Drain off any excess grease, then sprinkle in the taco seasoning and add water. Let it all simmer together for a few minutes so every bite of beef is flavorful and juicy. Allow it to cool slightly (so it won’t melt your dough later).
Step 3: Shape the Dough
On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a big rectangle. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice it into eight equal strips—each one will be wrapped around that irresistible filling.
Step 4: Fill and Seal
Spoon a mound of taco meat and a gooey pile of shredded cheese right in the middle of each dough strip. Fold the dough up and around the filling like a little taco-loving burrito, then pinch the edges tightly closed so nothing leaks out.
Step 5: Add Buttery Topping
Arrange your Cheesy Taco Sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush the tops generously with melted butter, sprinkle them with garlic powder and dried parsley for extra flavor and color.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Pop the tray into the oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the Cheesy Taco Sticks are puffed up and beautifully golden. When you smell that cheesy, buttery aroma wafting through your kitchen, you’ll know they’re ready.
Step 7: Serve Hot with Dipping Sauces
Let the taco sticks cool for just a minute before serving. Arrange them on a platter with plenty of salsa or sour cream for dipping—then watch them disappear!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
Garnishes
Add a fresh touch with a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a little extra shredded cheese on top right after baking. If you want to turn up the flavor, a dash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños will do the trick.
Side Dishes
Pair these Cheesy Taco Sticks with classic sides like crunchy tortilla chips and guacamole, a festive corn salad, or even a light green salad to round out your meal. For a party spread, think about offering rice and beans or roasted veggies on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist at parties, serve the Cheesy Taco Sticks in a standing glass set on the table with dipping sauces around—like savory breadsticks. Or stack them on a rustic board with plenty of dip choices and fresh veggie sticks for an appetizer everyone will love grabbing by the handful.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have extras, let the Cheesy Taco Sticks cool completely, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay tasty for up to three days, making them perfect for lunchboxes or after-school snacks.
Freezing
You can absolutely freeze Cheesy Taco Sticks for future cravings! Just wrap each baked stick tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and tuck them into a freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to two months. When you’re ready, no need to thaw—just reheat straight from the freezer.
Reheating
For the freshest flavor and best texture, reheat Cheesy Taco Sticks in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, a minute or so in the microwave will do (though the crust won’t be as crisp). Serve with fresh salsa or sour cream for best results.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought taco seasoning?
Absolutely! Store-bought taco seasoning works perfectly in this Cheesy Taco Sticks recipe. If you have a homemade blend, feel free to use that instead and tweak the flavors to your crowd’s taste.
What’s the best cheese for Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend both melt beautifully and offer that signature stretch and flavor. If you love things spicy, pepper jack is a fun option as well!
Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles, seasoned black beans, or even sautéed vegetables for an equally delicious, meatless version.
Can I assemble these ahead of time?
Definitely. You can assemble Cheesy Taco Sticks up to a day ahead. Store them, covered, in the fridge until you’re ready to bake. This makes party prep or busy weeknight dinners extra easy.
What dips go best with Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Salsa and sour cream are classic, but feel free to offer guacamole, queso dip, or even ranch for dipping. Mixing and matching dips keeps things fun and flavorful!
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to take that first melty, crunchy bite and see why Cheesy Taco Sticks are one of my all-time favorites. They’re simple, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to please both kids and adults. Give them a try for your next get-together or a cozy family night—you’ll find yourself making them again and again!
Print
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 taco sticks
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices, wrapped in pizza dough, and baked until golden and gooey with melted cheese. Perfect for parties or as a tasty snack!
Ingredients
For the taco meat:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- 1/4 cup water
For the sticks:
- 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- Salsa or sour cream (for dipping)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven and prepare the baking sheet: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the taco meat: Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and water. Simmer until liquid is absorbed. Let cool.
- Prepare the sticks: Roll out pizza dough, cut into strips. Fill each strip with taco meat and cheese. Fold and seal, forming sticks. Place on baking sheet.
- Bake the taco sticks: Brush sticks with melted butter, sprinkle with garlic powder and parsley. Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden.
- Serve: Serve warm with salsa or sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- You can use ground turkey or shredded chicken as alternatives.
- For extra flavor, add chopped jalapeños or onions.
- For crispier sticks, use an egg wash instead of butter before baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 taco stick
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
