Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect combination of melty cheese, seasoned taco meat, and warm, golden-baked dough. They’re easy to make, loaded with flavor, and ideal for everything from quick weeknight dinners to game-day snacks. Each bite delivers a delicious cheesy crunch with bold taco vibes that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prep with just a few ingredients
• Great for parties, snacks, or dinner
• Kid-approved and mess-free to eat
• Customizable with your favorite taco toppings
• Ready in under 30 minutes

Ingredients

this Recipe

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

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Refrigerated pizza dough
• Cheese sticks (cheddar, mozzarella, or your favorite)
• Butter
• Garlic powder
• Dried parsley or oregano

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
2. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Drain excess grease.
3. Stir in taco seasoning and cook for another 1–2 minutes. Let the mixture cool slightly.
4. Roll out the pizza dough and cut into rectangles large enough to wrap around the filling.
5. Place a spoonful of taco meat in the center of each rectangle, then top with half a cheese stick.
6. Roll the dough around the filling and pinch all edges tightly to seal.
7. Arrange the taco sticks seam-side down on the baking sheet.
8. Melt the butter and mix with garlic powder and parsley. Brush the mixture over each stick.
9. Bake for 10–12 minutes or until golden brown.
10. Serve warm with your favorite dips.

Servings and timing

Servings: 8–10 taco sticks
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 12 minutes
Total time: 27 minutes

Variations

• Add some heat: Mix in diced jalapeños or hot sauce with the meat.
• Try other proteins: Ground turkey, shredded chicken, or black beans work great too.
• Switch up the cheese: Use pepper jack, Monterey jack, or a Mexican blend for a flavor boost.
• Breakfast version: Swap the beef for scrambled eggs and sausage.

Storage/reheating

Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat in a 350°F oven or air fryer for 5–8 minutes to keep them crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it softens the crust.

FAQs

What are Cheesy Taco Sticks?

They’re dough-wrapped sticks filled with taco-seasoned beef and cheese, then baked until golden and melty.

Can I use homemade dough?

Yes, homemade pizza dough works great. Just roll it out evenly and use as directed.

What kind of cheese works best?

Cheddar, mozzarella, or Colby Jack cheese sticks are perfect. You can also use shredded cheese if you don’t have sticks.

Can I make them ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready to serve.

Are they freezer friendly?

Absolutely. Freeze them after baking. Reheat in the oven or air fryer until hot and crispy.

Can I use crescent roll dough instead?

Yes, crescent dough makes a softer, flakier crust and works well with this recipe.

How do I keep them from bursting open?

Make sure you seal the edges tightly and place the seam side down on the tray.

Are these good for kids?

Totally! They’re less messy than tacos and fun to dip in sauces.

What dips go well with taco sticks?

Salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or nacho cheese sauce all work perfectly.

Can I make a vegetarian version?

Yes, replace the beef with black beans, refried beans, or a veggie mix.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate quick comfort food. With crispy edges, melty cheese, and flavorful taco filling, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making a fun weeknight dinner or feeding a hungry group, this easy recipe delivers every time.

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