If you’re craving a snack that brings together savory, cheesy, and just a hint of spice, this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe is about to become your new obsession. Picture perfectly spiced ground beef wrapped in soft, golden pizza dough hugging melted cheese sticks, all brushed with a garlicky buttery finish that’s simply irresistible. It’s the ultimate comfort food meets party appetizer — ideal for game days, family gatherings, or a cozy night in. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll be making them again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the rich, seasoned ground beef to the melty cheese and pillowy dough, these simple ingredients come together beautifully to create a snack that’s both satisfying and fun to eat.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides a hearty, savory base bursting with meaty flavor when seasoned perfectly.
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix: Brings that signature Mexican-inspired spice blend that makes every bite exciting.
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough: Offers a soft, golden, and slightly chewy wrap that holds the filling beautifully.
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved: Melts into gooey, cheesy goodness that perfectly complements the seasoned beef.
- 4 tbsp butter, melted: Adds rich moisture and helps create a golden crust when brushed on top.
- 1 tsp garlic powder: Infuses a subtle savory depth to the buttery coating.
- 1 tsp dried parsley: Gives a fresh pop of color and a touch of herbaceous flavor.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Baking Sheet
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure your taco sticks bake evenly and don’t stick. This easy prep step sets the stage for perfectly baked sticks with little cleanup later.
Step 2: Cook and Season the Ground Beef
In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it into small crumbles. Drain the excess fat to keep the filling from becoming greasy. Then, stir in the taco seasoning mix and a splash of water (as directed on the packet) to coat every bit of beef with that bold, zesty flavor. Set the mixture aside to cool slightly.
Step 3: Roll and Cut the Dough
Lightly flour your workspace and roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough. Cut it into 10 equal rectangles — these will become the wrappers for your cheesy taco sticks. This size is perfect for holding both the beef and cheese while allowing for easy rolling and baking.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Sticks
Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned beef onto each dough rectangle. Place a halved cheese stick on top of the beef, then carefully roll the dough around the filling, sealing the edges tightly to avoid any leaks during baking. Place each wrapped stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet to keep them closed as they bake.
Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter and Herbs
Combine the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley in a small bowl. Use a pastry brush to coat each taco stick with this flavorful mixture. This will give the bread a beautiful golden color and an extra layer of flavor that’s absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Melty
Bake the assembled taco sticks for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden brown. The aroma that fills your kitchen at this point is pure magic, and you’ll know they’re ready once you see that irresistible golden crust.
Step 7: Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow the cheesy taco sticks to cool for a few minutes before serving. This short rest lets the filling set slightly so that each bite holds together beautifully. Now, get ready to dive into these flavorful, cheesy delights!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes can elevate your cheesy taco sticks to the next level. Try sprinkling chopped cilantro or green onions on top for a burst of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of salsa over the sticks adds a creamy or tangy contrast that enhances every bite.
Side Dishes
These taco sticks are fantastic on their own, but pairing them with vibrant sides really rounds out the meal. Consider a crisp side salad with a lime vinaigrette or a bowl of black beans and corn salad. For a heartier option, guacamole or creamy queso dip makes an irresistible companion for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, serve your cheesy taco sticks upright in a tall glass with the cheesy ends peeking out. You can also lay them out on a platter surrounded by small bowls of various dips — think salsa, ranch, or chipotle mayo — for a colorful, interactive snack station that everyone will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though these rarely last long!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep the crust from getting soggy, consider wrapping them individually in parchment or foil before placing them in the container.
Freezing
You can freeze these cheesy taco sticks before baking by assembling them and placing them on a parchment-lined tray, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time for perfectly fresh results.
Reheating
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and warm the taco sticks on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crisp again. This method ensures the dough stays flaky and the cheese melts perfectly once more.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While colby jack and cheddar offer a great melty texture and flavor, you can experiment with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a blend of cheeses you love for a unique twist on this classic.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with a plant-based meat alternative or seasoned beans for a delicious vegetarian version that keeps all the cheesy, spicy goodness intact.
Can I double the recipe for a bigger crowd?
Definitely. Just double all the ingredients and bake the taco sticks on multiple trays if needed. They make a fantastic crowd-pleasing appetizer or party snack.
What dips go best with cheesy taco sticks?
Some of the best dips include classic salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even a spicy chipotle mayo. These options complement the flavors and add layers of creaminess or heat depending on your preference.
Can I make the dough from scratch instead of using pre-made dough?
Yes, using homemade pizza dough works wonderfully if you prefer. Just roll it out and cut into rectangles as directed. The pre-made dough just speeds up the process without sacrificing flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe — it’s simple to make, packed with flavor, and irresistibly fun to eat. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, these sticks deliver comfort, spice, and cheesy satisfaction in every bite. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your snack and appetizer repertoire.
Print
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 5.5 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack combining seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and soft pizza dough. Perfect as a party appetizer or a fun family meal, these savory sticks feature a golden, buttery crust with flavorful taco filling inside.
Ingredients
Meat & Seasoning
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
Dough & Cheese
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 5 Colby Jack and Cheddar cheese sticks, halved
Butter & Herbs
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Cook Ground Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain off any excess fat, then add the taco seasoning packet along with water or ingredients as per the packet’s instructions. Stir well to combine the flavors and set the mixture aside.
- Prepare Dough: On a floured surface, roll out the tube of pizza dough and cut it into 10 equal rectangles, ensuring you have enough pieces to make each taco stick.
- Assemble Taco Sticks: Spoon a portion of the seasoned beef onto each rectangle of dough. Place one halved cheese stick on top of the beef. Roll the dough tightly around the filling, ensuring the edges are sealed completely to keep the cheese and meat enclosed. Place each rolled stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Butter Mixture: Combine the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over each taco stick to add moisture and a delicious golden color.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the taco sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. These sticks pair wonderfully with your favorite dips such as salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
Notes
- You can substitute the Colby Jack and Cheddar cheese sticks with mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- If you prefer, use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought for a fresher taste.
- To make the recipe spicier, add diced jalapeños to the beef mixture or sprinkle chili flakes over the butter brush.
- These taco sticks can be frozen before baking for a quick meal later; bake directly from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
