Name: Cheesy Taco Sticks Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-487289H53M28S
Total time: PT-487289H53M28S
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb ground beef; 1 packet taco seasoning; 1/4 cup water; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese; 1 can refrigerated pizza dough; 1/4 cup sour cream (optional); 1/4 cup salsa (optional)

If you’re craving a fun, flavorful snack or appetizer, these Cheesy Taco Sticks Delight are a perfect choice. Combining the zesty flavors of tacos with the indulgent goodness of melted cheese wrapped in a crispy dough, these taco sticks are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Easy to make, and full of savory satisfaction, they’re great for a quick bite or for serving at your next get-together. Cheesy Taco Sticks Delight

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and versatile this recipe is. The cheesy taco filling is wrapped in dough, creating the perfect blend of crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside. Whether I’m serving these as a snack for myself or sharing them with friends at a party, they always disappear quickly. The combination of taco seasoning, ground beef, cheese, and the crispy outer layer makes for a mouthwatering treat that I can’t resist. Plus, I can switch up the fillings to suit my taste, making this a recipe that can be customized in so many ways!

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef
1 packet taco seasoning
1/4 cup water
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 can refrigerated pizza dough
1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
1/4 cup salsa (optional)

(Her’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
Add the taco seasoning and water to the beef. Stir and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, until the mixture thickens and is fully combined.
Roll out the pizza dough on a flat surface, then cut it into strips (about 3-4 inches wide).
Place a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture in the center of each dough strip, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Roll the dough around the filling, making sure to seal the edges.
Place the taco sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
Let the taco sticks cool slightly, then serve with optional sour cream and salsa on the side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes about 12 taco sticks and takes around 30-40 minutes to prepare and bake. It’s perfect for a family meal, a snack, or a party appetizer.

Variations

Add veggies: I like to throw in some diced bell peppers, onions, or corn to the beef mixture for extra flavor and crunch.
Swap the meat: Ground turkey or chicken are great alternatives if I want to cut back on fat or change the flavor.
Spicy: For a bit of heat, I add jalapeños or use spicy taco seasoning to give the taco sticks a kick.
Cheese options: While I love cheddar, mozzarella, or a mix of both can also work great in this recipe.

Storage/Reheating

These taco sticks are best served fresh, but if I have leftovers, I store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I recommend placing them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes to get the outside crispy again. You can also microwave them for 30-45 seconds, but they won’t be as crispy.

FAQs

Can I make these taco sticks ahead of time?

Yes! I can prepare the taco sticks up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate them for up to a day. When ready, just bake them as directed.

Can I freeze the taco sticks?

Absolutely! Once baked, I can freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. They’ll last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, I just bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of dough?

Yes, I can use crescent roll dough or puff pastry if I want a different texture, though pizza dough works best for the classic taco stick feel.

Can I make these vegetarian?

Definitely! I can swap the ground beef for black beans, lentils, or a meatless taco filling for a vegetarian version.

What can I serve these with?

I love serving these taco sticks with a side of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. They also pair well with a fresh salad or a side of Mexican rice.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Sticks Delight is the perfect blend of savory, cheesy, and crispy. Whether I’m making them for a casual dinner, a snack, or a fun appetizer for guests, they never disappoint. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, I can enjoy these delicious treats in no time. Plus, the endless ways to customize them means I’ll never get bored of making them again and again!