Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

If you’re craving a snack that’s bursting with bold flavors, ooey-gooey cheese, and a satisfying crunch, let me introduce you to Cheesy Taco Sticks. These delightful twists combine the comforting heartiness of seasoned taco beef with melty cheddar and mozzarella nestled inside flaky, golden pizza dough. Perfect for game day, a casual party, or just a cozy night in, Cheesy Taco Sticks bring together the best of two beloved favorites in one irresistible handheld treat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are straightforward but essential, each playing an important role in creating the perfect balance of texture, flavor, and cheesy goodness that make Cheesy Taco Sticks so addictive.

• Refrigerated pizza dough: The easy base that bakes up light and flaky, perfectly wrapping the filling.
• Ground beef: Rich and hearty, it forms the savory core of the taco filling.
• Taco seasoning packet: Brings all the classic Mexican-inspired spices that give your beef that authentic taco flavor.
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Sharp and creamy, it melts beautifully for that gooey stretch.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Mild and stretchy, it balances the cheddar for ultimate cheesiness.
• Butter, melted: Adds a golden finish and subtle richness to the crust.
• Garlic powder: A sprinkle on top for an extra layer of savory flavor.
• Salsa and sour cream: Essential dippers that bring brightness and a cool tang to every bite.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by cooking your ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through. Once the beef is evenly cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep the filling from getting greasy, then stir in the taco seasoning as directed on the packet. This step infuses the meat with all those spicy, zesty flavors that make your Cheesy Taco Sticks truly irresistible.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

Next, roll out your refrigerated pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle. This creates the perfect canvas for layering on the savory taco beef and cheese. The dough is pliable and forgiving, so don’t worry about getting it perfect on the first try.

Step 3: Layer the Filling

Spread the seasoned, cooked taco meat evenly over half of the dough rectangle. Then, generously sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella over the meat, ensuring every bite will be loaded with melty cheese and flavorful beef. This combination is the heart of what makes your Cheesy Taco Sticks so satisfying.

Step 4: Fold and Cut

Carefully fold the other half of the dough over your filling, pressing down along the edges to seal in the cheesy taco goodness. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into one-inch-wide strips. These strips will become your classic twisted Cheesy Taco Sticks.

Step 5: Twist and Prepare for Baking

Take each strip and give it a gentle twist—just enough to create attractive swirls of dough and filling. Place the twisted sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Step 6: Butter and Season the Tops

Brush the tops of each taco stick with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic powder. This finishes them off with a golden, flavorful crust that complements the cheesy interior perfectly once baked.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pop your tray into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for 15 to 20 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re golden brown, crisp on the edges, and the cheeses inside have melted to gooey perfection. Serve hot for the ultimate snack experience.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Garnishes

While the Cheesy Taco Sticks are great on their own, adding a dollop of cool sour cream or a spoonful of fresh salsa on the side takes every bite to another level. Freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime can also brighten the flavors and add a fresh contrast to the richness.

Side Dishes

Pairing these sticks with simple sides like a crunchy garden salad or some zesty Mexican street corn makes for a well-rounded meal. For parties, serve alongside guacamole, pico de gallo, or a variety of salsas to keep the flavor adventure going.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress guests? Arrange your Cheesy Taco Sticks in a circle around a large bowl of salsa and sour cream for dipping. Or serve them on a wooden board with little bowls of different hot sauces and shredded lettuce for a fun, build-your-own taco stick experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any Cheesy Taco Sticks left over, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay delicious for up to three days, ready for a quick snack or lunch.

Freezing

These cheesy delights freeze beautifully. Place the twisted sticks on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. They’ll keep fresh for up to two months, making them a fantastic make-ahead snack for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the frozen or refrigerated Cheesy Taco Sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm and crisp again, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you can, since the oven brings back that delicious toasted crunch.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of refrigerated dough?

Absolutely! Homemade dough can add a lovely personal touch and flavor depth, just make sure it’s rolled out pretty thin to bake thoroughly with all the filling inside.

What cheeses work best for Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Cheddar and mozzarella are the classic choices for their meltability and flavor, but feel free to experiment with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for some extra spice.

Can these be made vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground beef with cooked black beans, diced mushrooms, or a plant-based meat alternative to keep all the cheesy, spicy yumminess without the meat.

Do I have to twist the sticks?

Twisting adds a fun texture and helps crisp up the dough, but you can also leave them as simple strips if you prefer a more traditional presentation.

How spicy are Cheesy Taco Sticks?

The heat depends on the taco seasoning you use. You can choose mild, medium, or hot to suit your taste, making these sticks family-friendly or spicy enough for adventurous eaters.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting about tearing into warm, crispy Cheesy Taco Sticks filled with seasoned beef and molten cheese. They’re simple to make but packed full of flavor, making them an instant favorite whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. I hope you give these a try and discover your new go-to snack that never disappoints!

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