If you are craving a snack that combines melty cheese, zesty taco flavor, and a golden, buttery crust, you are in for a treat with this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of savory ground beef seasoned to perfection, wrapped in soft, pillowy dough, making it an irresistible crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a game day party, need a quick lunch, or want a satisfying appetizer, these cheesy taco sticks will quickly become a beloved go-to in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about this recipe is how simple the ingredients are, yet each plays a vital role to build layers of flavor and texture. From the rich ground beef and sharp cheddar to the buttery dough, every component contributes to a mouthwatering result.
- 1 pound ground beef: The hearty base that delivers classic taco flavor and protein.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Adds that signature Mexican-inspired spice and aroma.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering.
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough: Makes the perfect soft and flaky outer shell that encases the filling.
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to add gooey, cheesy goodness inside every stick.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: Brushed on top to create a golden, flavorful crust.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory touch that complements the seasoned beef.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley: Adds a pop of color and a hint of fresh herbiness.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Taco Filling
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F to get it nice and ready for baking. Then, brown the ground beef over medium heat in a skillet, breaking it up so it cooks evenly. Drain the excess grease to keep it from being too oily, then stir in the taco seasoning and salt. Cooking this mixture just a couple more minutes allows those spices to meld beautifully into the meat. Once done, set it aside to cool slightly so it doesn’t melt the dough when assembling.
Step 2: Shape the Taco Sticks
Roll out your chosen dough (crescent or pizza) into a large, even rectangle on a clean surface. Cut the dough into 6 to 8 equal-sized sections—these will become your individual taco sticks. Spoon a modest amount of the taco meat onto each piece, followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Fold and pinch the edges carefully to seal every bit of filling inside, shaping each into a neat stick or log. Placing them seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet ensures they hold their shape and bake evenly.
Step 3: Add the Finishing Touches and Bake
Brush each taco stick with melted butter, giving them that tempting golden color and added richness. Sprinkle garlic powder and dried parsley evenly on top to enhance their flavor and presentation. Bake in your preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until each stick is beautifully browned and cooked through. Serve them while they are warm for the ultimate cheesy taco experience.
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes elevates the presentation and complements the flavors perfectly. Consider fresh salsa for a tangy kick, cool sour cream for creaminess, or vibrant guacamole for a creamy avocado touch. Each adds a refreshing contrast to the savory taco sticks and makes them even more enjoyable.
Side Dishes
These cheesy taco sticks pair wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or Mexican-style rice. For a heartier meal, try serving with beans or roasted vegetables. These combinations balance the indulgence of the cheese and dough, making the meal satisfying and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress your guests? Arrange the taco sticks upright in a decorative jar or glass with dips surrounding it for easy sharing. You can also slice them into bite-sized pieces and create a colorful taco stick platter with fresh veggies and dips. For kids, make a fun taco stick skewering party where everyone can assemble their own with toppings and sauces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because these disappear fast), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure they cool completely before storing to maintain the texture and flavor.
Freezing
You can freeze these baked cheesy taco sticks for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually or place layers separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container to avoid sticking. When frozen, they’re perfect to keep on hand for quick snacks or unexpected guests.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers or thawed freezer portions in a 350°F oven for about 8 to 10 minutes until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the dough soggy and the cheese less melty.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that works wonderfully with the taco seasoning, providing a leaner option that still tastes delicious.
What if I don’t have crescent roll dough?
Pizza dough is an excellent alternative and yields a slightly different texture but just as tasty. You can also try homemade dough if you prefer.
Can I make these spicy?
For sure! Swap out cheddar cheese for pepper jack or add a dash of cayenne to your taco seasoning to spice things up according to your taste.
Is it possible to make them vegetarian?
Yes, substitute the meat with seasoned beans, sautéed mushrooms, or plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian-friendly version of this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe.
How long do these last after baking?
When stored properly in the fridge, they stay fresh for about 3 days and remain tasty with reheating.
Final Thoughts
There is something irresistibly comforting about the combination of cheesy, seasoned meat wrapped in soft dough, and this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe hits all those notes perfectly. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing, I encourage you to try it the next time you want a snack that feels like a celebration. Trust me, once you do, these cheesy taco sticks will quickly become one of your favorites just as they are mine.
Print
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 taco sticks
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer or snack featuring seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar cheese wrapped in flaky crescent roll dough. Baked to golden perfection, these savory sticks are perfect for game days, parties, or a fun lunch option, served with your favorite dips like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Ingredients
Meat Filling
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- ½ teaspoon salt
Dough & Cheese
- 1 (8-ounce) can refrigerated crescent roll dough or pizza dough
- 1½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
Topping & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the taco sticks.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess grease, then stir in taco seasoning and salt. Continue to cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fully combined. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the crescent roll or pizza dough into a large rectangle. Cut the dough into 6 to 8 equal sections for individual sticks.
- Assemble Taco Sticks: Spoon a small amount of the seasoned taco meat onto each dough section. Sprinkle each with shredded cheddar cheese. Fold and pinch the edges tightly to seal the meat and cheese inside, shaping each into a stick or log. Place them seam side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: Brush each taco stick with the melted butter. Then sprinkle with garlic powder and dried parsley evenly over the top to add flavor and a nice finish.
- Bake: Bake the taco sticks in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Serve: Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauces such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for extra flavor and enjoyment.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for the beef to change up the protein.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for a spicier version of the taco sticks.
- These taco sticks make a great appetizer, lunch, or game-day snack.
