Cheesy Taco Sticks

These delicious Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect blend of flavor and fun! With buttery breadsticks filled with savory taco meat and gooey cheese, this recipe is a hit for family dinners, kids’ parties, or game day snacks. Easy to prepare and customize with your favorite toppings, these cheesy delights will quickly become a go-to dish in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy filling and crispy exterior make these sticks irresistible for children.
• Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can have these Cheesy Taco Sticks ready in under 30 minutes.
• Versatile: Customize the filling with your choice of meats, cheeses, or even beans for a vegetarian option!
• Perfect for Sharing: Ideal as appetizers or finger foods for gatherings, making them great for parties or family game nights.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch ahead of time and freeze them for quick meals later on.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making these Cheesy Taco Sticks, gather some essential tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking sheet
• Non-stick spray
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Small bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking sheet: Provides a sturdy surface for baking the Cheesy Taco Sticks evenly.
• Skillet: Ideal for cooking the ground beef quickly while allowing easy stirring.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking up meat while cooking without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

These super simple Cheesy Taco Sticks are buttery breadsticks filled with taco meat and lots of cheese! The kids will love them!

• 1 lb. ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
• 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks (halved)
• 4 tbsp butter (melted)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F to ensure it’s hot enough to bake the Cheesy Taco Sticks perfectly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Lightly coat a large baking sheet with non-stick spray and set it aside. This helps prevent sticking during baking.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

In a skillet over medium heat:
1. Add the ground beef and break it up using a wooden spoon until fully browned.
2. Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
3. Return the skillet to the heat; add taco seasoning (without water) and stir until all meat is coated.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Shape the Pizza Dough

Spread out the pizza dough on a flat surface:
1. Cut it in half lengthwise.
2. Make four cuts down each side, creating ten small rectangles.
3. Place about one tablespoon of taco meat at the center of each rectangle.
4. Top each with a halved cheese stick before rolling up tightly and pinching all seams closed.

Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, combine melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley:
1. Brush this mixture over the tops of each rolled Cheesy Taco Stick.
2. Bake in your preheated oven for about 10 to 12 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Serve hot with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream! Enjoy your homemade Cheesy Taco Sticks!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and delicious treat perfect for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to serve them that will delight both kids and adults alike.

With Dipping Sauces

• Sour Cream – A classic choice that adds a creamy texture.
• Guacamole – Fresh and flavorful, it pairs well with the cheesy filling.
• Salsa – For a tangy kick, salsa is an excellent dipping option.

Topped with Fresh Ingredients

• Chopped Lettuce – Adds a crunchy element and freshness.
• Diced Tomatoes – Brightens up the dish with color and flavor.
• Shredded Cheese – More cheese never hurts! Sprinkle on top for extra gooeyness.

As Part of a Platter

• Taco Night Spread – Include your Cheesy Taco Sticks on a taco night platter alongside tortillas, meat, and toppings.
• Game Day Snack Board – Perfect for parties; pair them with nachos and wings.

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How to Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

To ensure your Cheesy Taco Sticks turn out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.

• Use Fresh Dough – Fresh pizza dough gives the best texture and flavor.
• Don’t Overfill – Keep fillings moderate to avoid spills during baking.
• Seal Edges Well – Pinch seams tightly to keep cheese from leaking out.
• Bake Until Golden – Watch for a golden-brown color to indicate they are fully cooked.
• Serve Immediately – Enjoy them hot for the best taste experience.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Pairing side dishes with Cheesy Taco Sticks can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mexican Rice – Flavored rice complements the taco flavors wonderfully.
2. Refried Beans – Creamy and savory, they balance out the cheesy sticks nicely.
3. Corn Salad – A fresh corn salad can add sweetness and crunch.
4. Chips and Salsa – Always a crowd-pleaser; add some crunch to your meal!
5. Crispy Potato Wedges – These can be seasoned in many ways for variety.
6. Fruit Salad – A refreshing side that contrasts well with the savory sticks.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cheesy Taco Sticks, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using the wrong dough: Always use pizza dough for the best texture. Other types may not hold the filling well.

• Not draining the meat: Failing to drain fat from the cooked beef can lead to soggy sticks. Make sure to drain it thoroughly.

• Overfilling the sticks: Adding too much filling can cause them to burst open while baking. Stick to about a tablespoon of meat and cheese per stick.

• Ignoring baking time: Keep an eye on your sticks while they bake. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for golden brown tops around the 10-minute mark.

• Skipping the seasoning: Don’t skip adding garlic powder and parsley to the melted butter. This adds flavor and enhances the overall taste of your cheesy taco sticks.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Cheesy Taco Sticks

• To freeze, wrap each stick individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds or until warm; this may make them a bit soft.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, turning occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesy Taco Sticks that may help you out:

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey works well as a leaner alternative and will still taste delicious.

How can I customize my Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Feel free to add different cheeses or veggies like bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor!

Are Cheesy Taco Sticks freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making them perfect for meal prep.

What dipping sauces pair well with these sticks?

Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole are excellent choices for dipping your cheesy taco sticks!

Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are not just simple but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different fillings or toppings based on your family’s preferences. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer or a fun dinner option, they are sure to be a hit! Give this recipe a try and enjoy every cheesy bite!