Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate game-day snack, appetizer, or quick dinner idea! These buttery, golden breadsticks are stuffed with seasoned taco meat and gooey melted cheese, then brushed with a garlic butter topping for an extra flavor boost. Serve them with your favorite taco toppings for an irresistible treat!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
Family Favorite – Kids and adults alike love these cheesy taco-filled bites.
Great for Leftovers – Use leftover taco meat for a fast and delicious meal.
Customizable – Add jalapeños, extra cheese, or your favorite taco toppings!

Ingredients

For the Cheesy Taco Sticks:

• 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

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 4 tbsp butter, melted
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried parsley

Directions

Preheat & Prep the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet with non-stick spray and set it aside.

Cook the Taco Meat

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until fully browned and crumbled.
3. Drain any excess grease.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning (do not add water) until the meat is evenly coated.
5. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool to room temperature.

Prepare the Dough

1. Unroll the Pillsbury Pizza Dough on a flat surface.
2. Cut the dough in half lengthwise, then make 4 additional cuts vertically to create 10 small rectangles.

Assemble the Taco Sticks

1. Place about a tablespoon of taco meat in the center of each dough rectangle.
2. Lay half a cheese stick on top of the meat.
3. Carefully roll the dough over the filling, pinching the edges tightly to seal.
4. Ensure the seams are well-sealed to prevent the cheese from leaking out.

Brush with Garlic Butter

1. In a small bowl, mix together melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
2. Brush the tops of each taco stick generously with the garlic butter mixture.

Bake

1. Place the taco sticks onto the prepared baking sheet, seam side down.
2. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the tops are golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with your favorite taco toppings like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Prevent Cheese Leakage: Make sure to pinch the seams closed tightly so the cheese stays inside.
• Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños inside for an extra kick!
• Extra Cheesy: Use two cheese sticks per taco stick for maximum cheesiness.
• Use Leftover Taco Meat: This is a great way to repurpose extra taco meat from a previous meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or queso dip.
• Pair with a side salad or Mexican-style rice for a complete meal.
• Enjoy as a game-day snack or party appetizer!

Storage & Reheating

Storage:

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Oven: Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat for 30 seconds, but note that the dough may soften.

Freezing:

• Freeze unbaked taco sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.
• Bake from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes.

FAQs

1. Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the taco sticks, store them in the fridge, and bake them fresh when ready.

2. Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?

Yes! Crescent roll dough works well, but it may have a slightly softer texture.

3. How do I keep the cheese from oozing out?

Make sure to pinch the seams tightly and roll the dough snugly around the filling.

4. Can I use different cheeses?

Yes! Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack for different flavors.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Sticks are an easy and delicious way to shake up taco night! With gooey melted cheese, seasoned taco meat, and buttery garlic topping, they’re guaranteed to be a hit with family and friends. Whether served as a snack, appetizer, or quick meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again!

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