Looking for a fun, cheesy, and easy-to-make snack or appetizer? These Cheesy Taco Sticks are the answer! Packed with seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and wrapped in pizza dough, these sticks are perfect for game day, parties, or a quick family dinner. Serve them with salsa or sour cream for dipping, and watch them disappear in no time!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Cheesy and Flavorful: Packed with taco-seasoned beef and melted cheese.
- Easy to Make: Uses simple ingredients and ready-made pizza dough for a quick prep.
- Perfect for Sharing: Great for parties, game day, or family gatherings.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings or dipping sauces.
Ingredients Breakdown:
- Ground Beef: The hearty base of the taco filling, providing a savory, meaty flavor.
- Taco Seasoning: Adds that signature taco flavor with a blend of spices.
- Refrigerated Pizza Dough: Quick and easy dough for wrapping the filling, giving a crispy texture when baked.
- Shredded Mexican Blend Cheese: Offers a cheesy, melty filling that pairs perfectly with the taco seasoning.
- Butter, Garlic Powder, and Parsley: Adds flavor and a golden, crispy finish to the outside of the taco sticks.
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Tips and Tricks
- Don’t Overfill: Be careful not to overfill the dough to prevent leaks.
- Seal Tightly: Ensure the edges are well-sealed to keep the filling inside.
- Customize the Filling: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Make Ahead: Prepare the sticks up to the baking step and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
Variations and Customizations
- Chicken Version: Use shredded cooked chicken instead of ground beef.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with black beans or seasoned tofu.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the filling.
- Cheesy Twist: Use pepper jack or cheddar cheese for a different flavor.
Pairing Suggestions
- Dipping Sauces: Serve with guacamole, queso, or ranch dressing.
- Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad or coleslaw for a balanced meal.
- Beverages: Enjoy with a cold beer, margarita, or iced tea.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or in the microwave until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze unbaked sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Popular Questions
1. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade dough works just as well.
2. Can I make these sticks ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the sticks and refrigerate or freeze them before baking.
3. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork work well too.
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Cheesy Taco Sticks
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 8 sticks 1x
Description
These Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect handheld treat combining the classic flavors of a taco with a cheesy, crispy twist. Ground beef, taco seasoning, and melted cheese are wrapped in pizza dough, baked to golden perfection, and served with salsa or sour cream for dipping. A great option for dinner, snacks, or game day!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (for a savory filling)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (for bold, spicy flavor)
- 1/2 cup water (to mix with the taco seasoning)
- 1 can (13.8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough (for a quick and easy crust)
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese (for gooey, melty goodness)
- 1/4 cup butter, melted (for a golden, buttery crust)
- 1 tsp garlic powder (for extra flavor)
- 1/2 tsp dried parsley (for garnish)
- Salsa or sour cream (for dipping)
Instructions
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and water. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough:
- Roll out the pizza dough and cut it into 8 equal rectangles.
- Fill and Seal:
- Place a spoonful of the taco meat and a sprinkle of shredded cheese in the center of each rectangle.
- Fold the dough over the filling and seal the edges by pressing with a fork or pinching with your fingers.
- Bake:
- Arrange the filled dough sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and dried parsley.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Serve warm with salsa or sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- For a lighter version, use low-fat cheese and reduce the amount of butter.
- Double the recipe for larger gatherings—these sticks disappear fast!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
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