Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

Introduction

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful snack perfect for game days or casual gatherings. These twisted breadsticks are filled with seasoned ground beef and a blend of melted cheeses, making every bite deliciously satisfying. Serve them warm with salsa and sour cream for dipping.

Ingredients

• 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salsa and sour cream for dipping

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess fat, then add the taco seasoning and prepare according to the packet directions. Set aside.
3. Step 3: On a floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle.
4. Step 4: Spread the cooked taco beef evenly over one half of the dough. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese over the meat.
5. Step 5: Fold the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
6. Step 6: Cut the filled dough into 1-inch-wide strips. Twist each strip gently and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Step 7: Brush the tops with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
8. Step 8: Bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown and crispy.
9. Step 9: Serve warm with salsa and sour cream for dipping.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the beef mixture before spreading on the dough.
• Use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier twist.
• If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with seasoned cooked lentils or plant-based crumbles.

Storage

Store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it may make them soggy.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make these taco sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the sticks and refrigerate them before baking. Just cover tightly and bake within 24 hours, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated pizza dough?

Absolutely! Homemade pizza dough works well and allows you to customize flavors and thickness. Just roll it out to the same size and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

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★★★★★

4.4 from 136 reviews

• Author: Ella
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 sticks 1x

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Description

Cheesy Taco Sticks combine the savory flavors of seasoned ground beef and melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses wrapped in crispy, golden pizza dough twists. Perfect as a fun appetizer or snack, these sticks are easy to prepare and served with salsa and sour cream for dipping.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough and Filling

• 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
• 1/2 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

For Topping

• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For Serving

• Salsa for dipping
• Sour cream for dipping

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the taco sticks.
2. Cook beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning according to package directions. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Roll out dough: On a floured surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle to prepare for filling.
4. Add filling: Spread the cooked taco meat evenly over one half of the dough. Sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the meat layer.
5. Fold and seal: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal, preventing the filling from leaking out during baking.
6. Cut and twist: Cut the stuffed dough into approximately 1-inch-wide strips. Twist each strip gently and place them spaced apart on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Brush and season: Brush the tops of each twisted stick with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder to add flavor and promote browning.
8. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
9. Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving with salsa and sour cream for dipping.

Notes

• You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Make sure to seal the dough edges well to prevent cheese and meat from leaking during baking.
• For extra flavor, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro or green onions on top after baking.
• To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free pizza dough alternative.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American

Keywords: cheesy taco sticks, taco appetizers, pizza dough snacks, cheesy twisted bread, taco meat recipe, baked snacks, easy appetizers