Name: Cheesy Taco Sticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 can refrigerated pizza dough; 1/2 pound ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tablespoon butter, melted; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; Salsa and sour cream for dipping

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Short description
These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. With a delicious taco filling of seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar and mozzarella cheese, all wrapped in pizza dough, these cheesy sticks are baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick dinner, snack, or party appetizer, and served with salsa and sour cream for dipping!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Taco Sticks combine all the best flavors of a taco in an easy-to-eat, cheesy, and crispy form. The ground beef is perfectly seasoned with taco seasoning, while the melted cheese adds creaminess and richness. The pizza dough creates the perfect crispy exterior that complements the savory filling. They’re fun to make and even more fun to eat, making them a hit for families and gatherings alike.

Ingredients

1 can refrigerated pizza dough
1/2 pound ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon butter, melted
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Salsa and sour cream for dipping

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

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning according to the packet instructions. Set aside.
Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
Add the Filling: Spread the cooked taco meat evenly over one half of the dough. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the meat.
Fold the Dough: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges to seal.
Cut and Twist: Cut the stuffed dough into strips about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Brush and Season: Brush the tops of the twisted sticks with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the taco sticks are golden brown and crispy.
Serve: Serve the cheesy taco sticks with salsa and sour cream for dipping. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12-14 taco sticks and takes approximately 30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Chicken Taco Sticks: Replace the ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken for a lighter version.
Veggie Taco Sticks: For a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
Extra Spice: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture for extra heat.
Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack for a spicy twist or a Mexican cheese blend for extra flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness. You can also microwave them for 20-30 seconds, but they won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, you can use homemade pizza dough or even crescent roll dough for a different texture. Pre-made pizza dough is just the most convenient option.

Can I make these ahead of time?

You can prepare the taco sticks ahead of time, but it’s best to bake them right before serving to keep them crispy. You can assemble them and refrigerate them for up to a day before baking.

Can I freeze these taco sticks?

Yes, you can freeze the unbaked taco sticks. After twisting them, arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze them until firm, and then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes when ready to serve.

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for ground beef if you prefer a leaner option. It will work the same way with the taco seasoning.

How do I keep the taco sticks from getting soggy?

Make sure to drain the excess fat from the beef and avoid overstuffing the taco sticks with the filling. Also, the pizza dough should be rolled out evenly to help ensure a crisp texture.

Can I make these without cheese?

Yes, you can make these taco sticks without cheese for a dairy-free version. You can also substitute cheese with guacamole or salsa for added flavor.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and fun twist on classic tacos that are sure to please everyone at your table. Whether you serve them for dinner, as a snack, or at a party, these crispy, cheesy sticks with their flavorful taco filling are bound to be a crowd favorite. With the perfect balance of savory beef, melted cheese, and crispy dough, they’re an easy and irresistible meal that’s perfect for any occasion.