Name: Cheesy Taco Sticks: 7 Irresistible Bites for Parties
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 teaspoon minced garlic; 1 package taco seasoning; Water as called for on the taco seasoning package; 2 cans Pillsbury Pizza Dough; 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks; ¼ cup unsalted butter; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried parsley

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Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate party snack that combines seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and soft pizza dough. As an easy-to-make appetizer, they bake to golden perfection, making them irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or looking for a quick snack, these cheesy delights are sure to impress your guests. Let’s dive into how to make cheesy taco sticks that will elevate any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Taco Sticks

There are countless reasons to love these Cheesy Taco Sticks. First, they are incredibly easy to prepare, making them a go-to for busy weeknights. You can whip up this easy cheesy taco sticks recipe in just 30 minutes, which means more time to enjoy with friends or family. Additionally, they can be customized with your favorite fillings, such as spicy taco cheese sticks or even gluten-free cheesy taco sticks for those with dietary restrictions. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to please everyone, making them a popular choice for parties and gatherings. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping in salsa, sour cream, or guacamole!

Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Gather these items:

1 pound lean ground beef
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1 package taco seasoning
Water as called for on the taco seasoning package
2 cans Pillsbury Pizza Dough
12 Colby Jack cheese sticks
¼ cup unsalted butter
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried parsley

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
Step 2: Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat, add the ground beef, and cook for 5-7 minutes until fully browned. Drain excess fat.
Step 3: Stir in minced garlic, taco seasoning, and the water amount specified on the seasoning package. Cook on high heat for 2-3 minutes until the water evaporates.
Step 4: Remove pizza dough from the refrigerator and unroll it on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Hand-shape each tube into a 12×8 inch rectangle and cut into 12 squares.
Step 5: Place about 3 tablespoons of the beef mixture in the center of each dough square. Cut each cheese stick in half and place one half on top of the meat.

Step 6: Bring the sides of the dough up and pinch them together to seal around the filling. Position each stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheets.
Step 7: Melt the butter in the microwave, then stir in garlic powder and dried parsley. Coat each taco stick with this buttery mixture.
Step 8: Bake the taco sticks for 12-14 minutes until the tops turn lightly browned and the dough is cooked through.

Cheesy Taco Sticks: 7 Irresistible Bites for Parties - Cheesy Taco Sticks - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks

Keep these in mind:

Serve hot with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for the best flavor experience.

For a variation, try using cheddar taco sticks for a different cheese flavor.
Make sure to seal the dough well to prevent any filling from leaking during baking.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

There are many delicious ways to enjoy Cheesy Taco Sticks. Serve them alongside a fresh salad for a light meal or pair them with your favorite dipping sauces. They are also great as cheesy taco appetizers at parties, allowing guests to grab and go!

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Taco Sticks

For leftovers, store your Cheesy Taco Sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can last up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes until warmed through, ensuring they retain their crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Taco Sticks

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks?

The key to making the perfect Cheesy Taco Sticks is ensuring that the dough is not over-stretched when sealing the filling. This keeps them fluffy.

Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the taco sticks ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator and bake them when you’re ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Taco Sticks?

To avoid mistakes, make sure to drain any excess fat from the beef and seal the dough properly. This prevents leaks during baking and keeps your sticks flavorful.

Cheesy Taco Sticks: 7 Irresistible Bites for Parties - Cheesy Taco Sticks - additional detail

Variations of Cheesy Taco Sticks You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with these variations:

Make Spicy Taco Cheese Sticks by adding jalapeños to the beef mixture.
Try Cheesy Taco Roll-Ups by rolling the dough around the filling instead of pinching it closed.

For a healthier option, substitute with ground turkey and use gluten-free pizza dough.

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For additional information on the benefits of ground beef, visit Beef It’s What’s for Dinner. For tips on meal prepping, check out Eat Right.