Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful twist on traditional taco night! Perfect for dinner, appetizers, or game day snacks, this recipe combines seasoned ground beef with gooey Colby Jack cheese, all wrapped in soft pizza dough. Easy to make and always a hit at gatherings, they bring joy to both kids and adults alike. Get ready to impress your family and friends with these fun and tasty bites!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Taco Filling
• For the Dough
• For the Cheese
• For the Topping
• For Garnish
• How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture
• Step 3: Prepare the Dough Squares
• Step 4: Assemble Your Taco Sticks
• Step 5: Add Topping and Bake
• How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
• As an Appetizer
• At a Game Day Party
• For Family Dinner
• At Kids’ Parties
• How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?
• What other cheeses can I use in Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• How do I customize Cheesy Taco Sticks?
• Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up these cheesy delights in no time.
• Family Friendly: Kids will love the cheesy filling, making it a perfect dish for picky eaters.
• Versatile Snack: Great for any occasion, whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive party.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of taco seasoning and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare your Cheesy Taco Sticks.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheets
• Parchment paper
• Large skillet
• Mixing spoon
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheets: Essential for even cooking and easy transfer of the taco sticks to the oven.
• Parchment paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.
• Large skillet: Provides enough space for browning the ground beef without overcrowding.

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

• 2 cans Pillsbury pizza dough

For the Cheese

• 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks

For the Topping

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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup.

Step 2: Prepare the Meat Mixture

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Cook the ground beef until fully browned (about 5–7 minutes).
2. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add in the minced garlic, taco seasoning, and water as directed on the taco seasoning package.
4. Cook over high heat for an additional 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 on a parchment-lined baking sheet:
1. Shape it into a 12×8-inch rectangle.
2. Cut it into six even 4×4-inch squares.
3. Repeat this process with the second can for a total of twelve rectangles.

Step 4: Assemble Your Taco Sticks

For each square of dough:
1. Scoop about 3 tablespoons of taco meat mixture into the center.
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 and pinch to seal, then fold and seal the ends on the same side as the seam.
4. Place seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, being careful not to overstretch the dough.

Step 5: Add Topping and Bake

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt unsalted butter. Stir in garlic powder and dried parsley.
Brush this seasoned butter over the tops of each taco stick.
Bake for 12–14 minutes or until they are golden brown and puffy.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Taco Sticks! They’re sure to be a favorite at every gathering!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are versatile and can be served in various ways to cater to different tastes. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying family dinner, or looking for game day snacks, these taco sticks will surely delight everyone.

As an Appetizer

• Serve with salsa or guacamole for dipping. The fresh flavors complement the cheesy filling.
• Pair with a side of sour cream to add a creamy texture that balances the spices.

At a Game Day Party

• Arrange on a platter with a selection of dips. This makes them easy for guests to grab while cheering for their team.
• Offer some jalapeño slices for those who like it spicy.

For Family Dinner

• Serve alongside a fresh salad. The crunch of the salad contrasts nicely with the soft taco sticks.
• Include some Mexican rice as a hearty side that pairs well with the flavors of cheesy taco sticks.

At Kids’ Parties

• Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks. Perfect for little hands and picky eaters.
• Present with fun toothpicks for easy serving and added fun.

How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

To ensure your Cheesy Taco Sticks turn out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips:

• Use fresh dough: Make sure your pizza dough is fresh for optimal texture and flavor.
• Don’t overfill: Be careful not to overload your taco sticks with meat or cheese; this helps them seal better and bake evenly.
• Seal edges well: Pinch the seams tightly to avoid filling leaks during baking.
• Experiment with cheese: Try using different cheeses like pepper jack or mozzarella for varied flavors.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your meat mixture before sealing. Feel free to add extra spices if desired.

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Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are delicious on their own but can be paired with complementary side dishes to enhance your meal experience.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad dressed in lime juice and cilantro adds a zesty kick.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a rich taste that works well alongside the taco sticks.
3. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips with fresh salsa create a crunchy contrast.
4. Guacamole: The smoothness of guacamole pairs perfectly, providing a creamy texture alongside the cheesy goodness.
5. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with lime and cilantro adds brightness to your plate.
6. Pico de Gallo: Fresh diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro provide freshness that complements the rich flavors of the taco sticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cheesy Taco Sticks can be a fun experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using too much filling: Overstuffing the taco sticks can lead to messy results. Stick to about 3 tablespoons of the meat mixture for the best outcome.
• Not sealing properly: If the dough isn’t sealed well, it may open while baking. Make sure to pinch the edges firmly to prevent any spills.
• Skipping the butter brush: Omitting the butter mixture means missing out on that golden, crispy finish. Always brush the tops before baking for maximum flavor and texture.
• Ignoring oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Ensure your oven is preheated to 425°F for perfect results.
• Using cold dough: Cold pizza dough can be tough to work with. Allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes before unrolling for easier handling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Wrap each taco stick individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds at a time until warm, but this may result in a softer texture.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, cover, and heat for about 5 minutes until warmed through.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare them ahead and store them in the refrigerator. Just bake them when you’re ready to serve.

What other cheeses can I use in Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for added flavor!

How do I customize Cheesy Taco Sticks?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or olives into the filling or swap ground beef for turkey or chicken.

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade dough adds a personal touch and can be customized with herbs or spices.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks are an incredible blend of flavors that make them perfect for dinner, snacks, or game day gatherings. Their versatility allows you to customize with different fillings and cheeses based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

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