Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

These Cheesy Taco Sticks quickly became my comfort food crush. I love how zesty taco beef and melty cheese meet crispy pizza dough brushed with garlic butter. Every bite packs a punch of flavor that’s indulgent and fun, making this snack a perfect, satisfying twist on traditional taco night.

I love making Cheesy Taco Sticks cause they deliver both taste and nutrition in every bite. I use 1 lb of ground beef cooked with 1 packet taco seasoning and 1/2 cup water to get a savory, meaty base that fuels you with protein and energy.

Then I roll it up in a 1 lb of pizza dough which gives a satisfying carb boost, while 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese melt perfectly over the beef. I mix 1/4 cup unsalted butter with 2 cloves garlic to brush over the dough so every bite has a rich garlicky flavor that makes it extra tasty.

I find these sticks a fun twist on classic Mexican dishes, fitting for dinner, snack time or even as a cool appetizer. They’re an easy, authentic option for a beef recipe that balances indulgence with nutrition, although they are definitely on the richer side.

I often enjoy them best with a side of salsa or sour cream for dipping.

Why I Like this Recipe

1. I love how the recipe is a mix of flavors that totally cranks up taco night – the seasoned beef, cheesy goodness, and garlic butter blend together in a way that just makes me want more every time.
2. I really like how easy it is to follow the steps, even if i mess up a little sometimes. The simple instructions let me have fun experimenting and still end up with a tasty snack.
3. I enjoy that it brings something new to the table by turning regular taco ingredients into these creative taco sticks. It gives me a fun twist and makes the whole meal feel a bit more special.
4. I also appreciate how versatile it is – whether im in the mood for a quick bite or want to share something delicious with friends, this recipe always fits the bill.

Ingredients

• Ground beef is loaded with protein and essential iron, making it hearty and fulfilling.
• Pizza dough gives good carbohydrates for energy while keeping the texture soft and chewy.
• Cheddar cheese adds a gooey, rich flavor along with calcium and a seriously tasty vibe.
• Taco seasoning brings in a zesty, spicy kick that livens up the savory meat really well.
• Garlic and melted butter blend together to deliver an aromatic, buttery finish that ties flavors.
• Optional sour cream or salsa adds tangy freshness perfect for dipping those cheesy taco sticks.
• Water helps distribute the seasoning evenly ensuring every bite gets that flavour boost.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Optional: sour cream or salsa for dipping

How to Make this

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until it’s browned and crumbly.

3. Stir in the taco seasoning packet and 1/2 cup of water, and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, roll out 1 lb of pizza dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle shape.

5. Evenly spread the cooked beef over the dough and sprinkle 2 cups of shredded cheese all over the top.

6. Starting from one long side, roll the dough tightly into a log and then slice it into 1-inch thick sticks.

7. Place the taco sticks on the prepared baking sheet.

8. Mix together the 1/4 cup of melted unsalted butter with 2 minced garlic cloves and brush this over the tops.

9. Bake the sticks for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden and the cheese is all melty.

10. Let them cool for a few minutes and serve with sour cream or salsa if you like. Enjoy your Cheesy Taco Sticks!

Equipment Needed

1. Oven – preheat it to 425°F so you can bake the dish evenly.
2. Baking sheet – for holding the taco sticks during baking.
3. Parchment paper – to line the baking sheet and prevent sticking.
4. Large skillet – used to cook the ground beef on medium heat.
5. Spatula or wooden spoon – necessary for stirring and breaking up the meat while it browns.
6. Rolling pin – for rolling out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface.
7. Knife – to slice the rolled dough log into 1-inch thick sticks.
8. Small bowl – to mix the melted butter and minced garlic together.
9. Basting brush – to evenly apply the garlic butter mixture over the taco sticks.
10. Measuring cups and spoons – to accurately measure water, butter, and any other precise ingredients.

FAQ

• What if I dont have homemade pizza dough? You can definitely use storebought dough instead its made just as easy so dont worry about it.
• How do I cook the ground beef? Brown the beef in a skillet then mix in the taco seasoning and water until its fully cooked and tasty.
• Can I use other types of cheese if I dont like cheddar? Sure you can swap cheddar for Mexican blend or even try mozzarella if you want a twist.
• How will I know when my taco sticks are done? Look for a golden crust on the outside and melted cheese on top as your guide its ready to enjoy.
• What is the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat them in an oven at a medium temperature until warmed through to keep their crunch and flavor.

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe Substitutions and Variations

• Instead of 1 lb ground beef, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken if you want a leaner option
• If you don’t have that packet of taco seasoning, try mixin your own with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt and pepper
• For 1 lb pizza dough, you could use pre-made biscuit dough or even crescent roll dough as a quick substitute
• Instead of 2 cups of shredded cheddar, you can mix in some monterey jack or even a Mexican blend for a slightly different flavour
• If you are out of unsalted butter in that 1/4 cup, olive oil or even a light margarine works pretty well

Pro Tips

1. Try preheating your garlic butter in the pan for a few seconds before brushing it over the dough, it really brings out a richer flavor and adds a nice aroma.
2. If your taco beef is super hot when you add it to the dough, let it cool down a bit first so your dough doesnt get too soggy.
3. When you roll your dough, make sure to roll it tight but not too tight because if its too compressed you might end up with a dense snack.
4. After baking, let the taco sticks chill for a few minutes on a rack before you slice them, that way the cheese sets better and you dont get a messy bite.