Name: Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning mix; 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough; 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved; 4 tbsp butter, melted; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp dried parsley

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Fun and Portable: A great grab-and-go snack for kids and adults alike.
Cheesy and Flavorful: Packed with seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese in every bite.
Customizable: Swap the cheese, add jalapeños, or even try a different meat filling.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, following the instructions on the seasoning packet. Stir to combine and set aside.
Prepare the Dough: Roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough on a lightly floured surface. Cut the dough into 10 equal rectangles.
Assemble the Taco Sticks: Spoon a small portion of the seasoned beef onto each rectangle. Place a halved cheese stick on top of the beef. Roll the dough around the filling, pinching the edges to seal tightly. Place the taco sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
Brush with Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over each taco stick.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Serve: Allow the taco sticks to cool slightly before serving. Pair them with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 5 (1 taco stick per serving)
Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: Add jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for extra heat.
Different Cheeses: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or Monterey jack for a unique twist.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the ground beef for black beans, refried beans, or a plant-based meat substitute.
Crispier Texture: Brush with extra butter and broil for the last 2 minutes for a golden, crispy top.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 30 seconds until warmed through.
Freezing: Freeze unbaked taco sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the taco sticks and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking.

2. Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes, but be gentle when sealing the edges to prevent filling leaks.

3. What dipping sauces pair well with these taco sticks?

Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, queso dip, or even ranch dressing are great options.

4. Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Absolutely! Cook and shred chicken, then mix it with taco seasoning for a tasty alternative.

5. How do I prevent the filling from leaking out?

Make sure to pinch the edges of the dough tightly and place the seam side down on the baking sheet.

6. Can I make these in an air fryer?

Yes! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through.

7. Are these taco sticks spicy?

No, but you can make them spicy by adding hot sauce, jalapeños, or spicy taco seasoning.

8. Can I add veggies to the filling?

Yes! Bell peppers, onions, or even corn can add extra flavor and texture.

9. What’s the best way to reheat them so they stay crispy?

Reheat in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave to keep the texture crispy.

10. Can I make mini versions for a party?

Yes! Cut the dough into smaller pieces and reduce the baking time slightly for bite-sized taco sticks.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate fusion of tacos and cheesy breadsticks, making them a hit with kids and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for a fun dinner idea, a party appetizer, or a satisfying snack, these easy-to-make treats are guaranteed to please. Serve them with your favorite dips, customize them with different fillings, and enjoy a deliciously cheesy, taco-inspired bite in every piece!