Hey y’all! Are you ready to kick up your snack game with a mouthwatering treat? These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delightful combination of melty cheese, savory taco flavors, and a crispy crust, making them perfect for parties, game nights, or simply a cozy evening at home. They’re sure to be a hit with everyone who takes a bite! Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This
- These Cheesy Taco Sticks are super easy to make with just a few ingredients.
- They’re packed full of flavor with taco seasoning and gooey cheese.
- Perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a main course.
- Kid-friendly and great for picky eaters.
- They only take 30 minutes from start to finish!
Ingredients
- 1 pack of refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Salsa or sour cream for dipping
Directions
Prepare the Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add the taco seasoning to the beef along with 1/4 cup of water. Stir and simmer for about 5 minutes.
Assemble the Taco Sticks
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface into a large rectangle.
- Spread the cooked beef mixture evenly over half of the dough.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese on top of the beef.
- Fold the other half of the dough over the filling, pressing the edges to seal.
Bake to Perfection
- Brush the top of the dough with olive oil and sprinkle with a little salt.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the dough into strips, about 1 inch wide.
- Place the strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños to the filling. Check this guide on cooking with peppers.
- If you don’t have pizza dough, crescent roll dough is a great alternative.
- Store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Variations
- Chicken Taco Sticks: Substitute ground beef with cooked, shredded chicken.
- Veggie Taco Sticks: Add diced bell peppers and onions to the filling for extra flavor.
- Spicy Taco Sticks: Use pepper jack cheese and add red pepper flakes.
Required Equipment
- Skillet
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Sharp knife
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Suggested Pairings
These Cheesy Taco Sticks pair wonderfully with fresh salsa, sour cream, or guacamole. They also go well with a crisp green salad on the side or a bowl of your favorite soup.
Pro Tips
- For even more flavor, add a sprinkle of taco seasoning on top of the dough before baking. Learn more about seasoning from Epicurious.
- Ensure that the dough is well-sealed to prevent the cheese from oozing out during baking.
- Let the taco sticks cool slightly before serving for the best texture.
FAQ
- Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Sticks? Yes, you can freeze them before baking. Just thaw them before you bake them.
- Can I make these vegetarian? Absolutely! Substitute the beef with black beans or your preferred meatless option.
- What if I don’t have taco seasoning? You can make your own using chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder. Check out this recipe for homemade taco seasoning.