Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
Cheesy Taco Sticks combine the flavors of seasoned ground beef and melted cheeses wrapped in soft, golden pizza dough. These savory sticks are perfect as a game-day snack or a fun appetizer, served with tangy salsa and creamy sour cream for dipping.
- Author: Nora
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 taco sticks 1x
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Dough
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
Filling
- 1/2 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Topping & Dipping
- 1 tablespoon butter, melted
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salsa, for dipping
- Sour cream, for dipping
- Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbly, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning with a splash of water according to package instructions, simmering for 2-3 minutes until well combined and flavorful. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Roll Out the Dough: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). On a lightly floured surface or parchment paper, unroll the refrigerated pizza dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches thick.
- Assemble Taco Sticks: Evenly spread the cooked taco-seasoned beef over the dough, then sprinkle shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses on top. Starting from one long side, gently roll the dough into a tight log, pinching the seam to seal.
- Slice and Prepare for Baking: Using a sharp knife, cut the roll into about 12 sticks. Place the sticks cut side up on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
- Brush with Butter and Season: Mix melted butter with garlic powder and brush this mixture generously over each taco stick to add flavor and help them brown.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
- Serve: Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving. Present with salsa and sour cream for dipping.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add chopped jalapeños to the meat mixture before rolling.
- Make sure to seal the dough roll tightly to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Leftover taco sticks can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven for a crispy finish.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
- Use pre-shredded cheese or shred your own for fresher taste.
Keywords: cheesy taco sticks, taco appetizers, pizza dough snack, easy baked snacks, game day food