If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with cheesy goodness and packed with flavorful taco meat wrapped in golden dough, this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe is your new best friend. It brings together everything we love about tacos and pizza into one handheld treat that’s easy to make, irresistibly delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends or family. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll become a regular in your kitchen rotation for game nights, quick dinners, or anytime hunger strikes.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple ingredients come together beautifully to create the perfect blend of taste, texture, and appealing colors in your Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe. Each element plays a key role—from the seasoned beef’s savory depth to the golden bubbly cheese, and the dough that crisps just right on the outside while staying tender inside.
- 1 lb. ground beef: Provides the hearty, savory base that’s packed with taco flavor.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Delivers that classic southwest spice punch, but you can also use homemade seasoning for a personalized twist.
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough: The easy-to-use dough that crisps up perfectly while wrapping all the delicious filling.
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved (10 pieces): These melt into gooey, cheesy centers that taco sticks are all about.
- 4 tbsp butter, melted: Creates a golden, buttery topping that keeps the tacos sticks moist with flavor.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Adds a subtle but essential savory note to the topping.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Brings a fresh pop of color and a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by setting your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s hot and ready when you’re done preparing everything else. Preheating ensures your taco sticks bake evenly with a perfect golden crust and that melty cheese inside.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet
Lightly coat a large baking sheet with non-stick spray to guarantee those cheesy taco sticks won’t stick. Having this ready upfront saves time and keeps the cooking smooth once you assemble them.
Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef
Heat a skillet over medium, then add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s fully browned and nicely crumbly. After draining excess fat, return the skillet to the burner—it’s time for the magic seasoning.
Step 4: Season the Taco Meat
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix directly into the beef—no need for extra water here, so the meat stays thick and flavorful. Stir well to coat every bit, then remove from heat to cool down a little. Cooling prevents the dough from getting soggy.
Step 5: Prepare the Dough
Roll out the pizza dough on a clean surface until it becomes even and flat. Cut it in half lengthwise, then slice each half into five rectangles, making 10 equal pieces total. These rectangles will cradle your delicious filling beautifully.
Step 6: Fill and Roll the Taco Sticks
Drop about a tablespoon of the seasoned taco beef into the center of each dough rectangle, then top with a halved cheese stick. Carefully roll the dough around the filling, pinching every seam tight to lock in juicy, cheesy goodness.
Step 7: Prepare the Butter Topping
Mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley in a small bowl. Brush this savory blend generously over each rolled taco stick. This step adds glossy flavor and a gorgeous finish.
Step 8: Bake
Place the taco sticks seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet. Bake them in the oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the tops are a beautiful golden brown and the cheese inside has melted perfectly.
Step 9: Serve
Once baked, let the Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe cool for a few minutes before digging in. Serving them hot ensures you get that melty, cheesy experience in every bite, optionally paired with your favorite taco toppings or dipping sauces for extra zing.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or sliced jalapeños not only brightens the look but also adds fresh, vibrant flavors that balance the richness of the cheese and meat. A squeeze of lime can also elevate the whole experience beautifully.
Side Dishes
These cheesy, savory sticks love company. Serve them alongside classic sides such as guacamole, salsa, or sour cream to dip into. A simple fresh salad or Mexican-style street corn makes for a complete, crowd-pleasing meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a party or family gathering, arrange the taco sticks vertically in a tall glass or vase, making them easy to grab. You can also slice them into little bites, perfect for creative finger-food platters that will get everyone excited to try a piece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them sealed well ensures the dough stays tender, and the flavors remain vibrant.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these later, freeze the cooked taco sticks individually on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well up to 2 months and thaw quickly when you’re ready to reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, place the taco sticks on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep that perfect texture.
FAQs
Can I use homemade taco seasoning instead of the packet?
Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning can add a fresh and customizable flavor. Just be sure to use enough to properly season the beef, and adjust salt and spice levels to your preference.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! You can substitute the ground beef with a seasoned mix of cooked lentils, black beans, or even plant-based ground meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe.
What cheese works best for melting inside the taco sticks?
Colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks are perfect due to their great meltability and flavor, but mozzarella or pepper jack can also work wonderfully if you want a different taste profile.
Can I prepare these ahead of time and bake later?
Definitely. You can assemble and keep the rolled taco sticks covered in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just brush on the butter topping right before popping them in the oven for that fresh baked taste.
How spicy is this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe?
The spice level depends largely on your taco seasoning mix. You can control the heat by choosing mild seasoning or adding extra chili powder if you like things with a kick.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe is truly a winner for anyone who loves big flavors and easy, fun meals. It’s wonderfully adaptable, quick to pull together, and guarantees smiles every time they’re served. I wholeheartedly encourage you to make these tasty little pockets of joy and share them with your favorite people—you won’t regret it!
Print
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 10 taco sticks
- Category: Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef and melted cheese wrapped in flaky pizza dough. Baked to golden perfection and topped with a buttery garlic-parsley glaze, they are perfect for gatherings, game days, or family dinners.
Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 lb. ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
For the Dough & Cheese
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved (10 pieces)
For the Topping
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) and allow it to fully preheat while you prepare the other ingredients. This ensures even baking and a golden finish.
- Prepare the Baking Sheet: Lightly coat a large baking sheet with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. Set aside for later use.
- Cook the Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon until fully browned and crumbled. Once cooked, drain any excess fat from the skillet and return it to the stovetop.
- Season the Taco Meat: Add the taco seasoning mix (without water) to the cooked beef. Stir until the meat is well coated with the seasoning, then remove from heat and allow to cool to room temperature to avoid overheating the dough.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the Pillsbury pizza dough on a flat surface until it’s even and flat. Cut the dough in half lengthwise and then make four additional cuts crosswise to create 10 equal rectangles.
- Fill and Roll the Taco Sticks: Place about 1 tablespoon of the seasoned taco meat in the center of each dough rectangle. Top each with a halved cheese stick, then carefully roll up each rectangle around the filling, pinching all seams together to seal completely.
- Prepare the Butter Topping: In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture generously over the tops of the prepared taco sticks for extra flavor and sheen.
- Bake: Arrange the taco sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove the taco sticks from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy hot, optionally with your favorite taco toppings or dipping sauces.
Notes
- Make sure the taco meat cools to room temperature before filling the dough to prevent it from becoming soggy or tearing.
- You can substitute the colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks with any cheese sticks or shredded cheese you prefer.
- Serve with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or your favorite dipping sauce for extra flavor.
- These taco sticks can be made ahead and refrigerated before baking; just add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.
- Use non-stick spray or parchment paper on the baking sheet for easier cleanup.
