Why You Need These Cheesy Taco Sticks in Your Life
Let’s be real—tacos are life. But have you ever wished you could eat them without the mess? Enter Cheesy Taco Sticks, a handheld, gooey, and ridiculously delicious twist on classic tacos. Think crispy on the outside, melty on the inside, and packed with bold taco flavors.
If you love Mexican foods, this recipe is about to become your new obsession. Perfect for game nights, parties, or those I-need-cheese-now moments, these taco sticks take everything we love about tacos and wraps them up in warm, buttery dough.
Before we dive into this dangerously addictive snack, check out this Mexican Chicken Stew Recipe for another must-try meal!
Ingredients for the Best Cheesy Taco Sticks
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 6 mozzarella cheese sticks (cut in half)
For the Dough:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
For Dipping:
- Salsa, queso, guacamole, or sour cream
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
Step 1: Cook the Taco Meat
Start by browning your ground beef in a pan over medium heat. Drain any excess grease (unless you’re feeling rebellious). Stir in the taco seasoning and water, letting it simmer for five minutes until thick. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly—burning your fingers over a taco emergency is not worth it.
Step 2: Roll Out the Dough
Take your pizza dough and roll it into a rectangle. If it’s being stubborn, show it who’s boss with a rolling pin. Slice it into 12 equal strips—these will be your taco sticks, so aim for consistency unless you like surprises.
Step 3: Assemble Like a Pro
Spoon some taco meat onto each dough strip, then place half a mozzarella cheese stick on top. Fold the dough over, press the edges together, and seal them tight. No one wants a cheese explosion—well, maybe you do, but let’s keep it under control.
Step 4: Butter, Bake, and Be Amazed
Line your cheesy taco sticks on a baking sheet, seam-side down. Brush with melted butter, sprinkle garlic powder and parsley over the top, and pop them in a preheated 400°F oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and smell like heaven.
Step 5: Enjoy with Your Favorite Dip!
Let them cool for a minute (if you can resist), then serve with salsa, guacamole, queso, or sour cream. Want more Mexican foods on your menu? Try this Easy Rotel Mexican Rice to pair with your taco sticks!
Tips to Make the Best Taco Sticks Ever
- Seal them well – A cheese escape sounds fun until your oven turns into a dairy disaster.
- Don’t overstuff – We love extra cheese, but too much will cause a messy meltdown.
- Use fresh dough – Stale or dry dough is a nightmare to work with.
- Customize the spice – Add jalapeños or hot sauce if you like a kick.
- Brush with extra butter – Because when has more butter ever been a bad idea?
Flavor Variations to Try
- Spicy Taco Sticks: Use pepper jack cheese and add red pepper flakes.
- Tex-Mex Style: Mix in black beans, corn, or diced green chilies.
- Breakfast Taco Sticks: Swap out the beef for scrambled eggs and chorizo.
Love bold flavors? You’ll enjoy this Mexican Street Corn Soup Recipe, a perfect side dish for your taco night!
Best Dipping Sauces for Cheesy Taco Sticks
- Classic Salsa: Bright, tangy, and always a winner.
- Queso Dip: Warm, cheesy, and downright addictive.
- Guacamole: Creamy and fresh—an unbeatable combo.
- Sour Cream & Lime: A cool contrast to the warm, cheesy goodness.
Need another meal idea? Try this Mexican Chicken Lime Soup for a comforting, flavor-packed dish.
How to Store and Reheat Taco Sticks
Storing:
If you have leftovers (rare, but possible), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating:
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back the crisp.
- Microwave: 30 seconds is all you need, but expect a softer texture.
Looking for another easy meal? Check out this Hobo Casserole for a simple, satisfying dish!
FAQs About Cheesy Taco Sticks
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?
Yes! They’ll be flakier and softer, but just as delicious.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble them, then refrigerate or freeze before baking.
Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Yep! Freeze before baking, then bake straight from the freezer, adding 5 extra minutes to the cooking time.
What’s the best cheese for taco sticks?
Mozzarella for that perfect stretch, or cheddar for a bolder flavor.
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Of course! Try shredded rotisserie chicken with taco seasoning.
Cheesy Taco Sticks
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- ½ cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 6 mozzarella cheese sticks cut in half
- For the Dough:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- For Dipping Optional:
- Salsa queso, guacamole, or sour cream
Instructions
- Cook the Taco Meat – Brown ground beef in a pan over medium heat, drain excess grease, and add taco seasoning with water. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Dough – Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle and cut into 12 strips.
- Assemble the Sticks – Spoon taco meat onto each strip, add half a mozzarella stick, fold the dough, and seal edges tightly.
- Bake – Place on a baking sheet, brush with butter, sprinkle garlic powder and parsley, and bake at 400°F for 12-15 minutes until golden.
- Serve & Enjoy – Let cool slightly, then serve with salsa, guacamole, or queso!
Notes
- Cheese Sealing Tip: Press the dough edges firmly to avoid cheese leaking out while baking.
- Spicy Version: Add jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the taco meat for extra heat.
- Crispier Option: Brush with extra butter halfway through baking for a golden, crunchy texture.
- Alternative Doughs: Crescent roll dough works well for a softer texture.
- Make it a Meal: Serve with Easy Rotel Mexican Rice or Mexican Chicken Lime Soup for a complete dinner.
- Calories: ~220 per serving
Make These Cheesy Taco Sticks Today!
If you love tacos (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), these cheesy taco sticks are about to become your new favorite snack. They’re crispy, cheesy, dippable, and ridiculously easy to make. Whether it’s game night, movie night, or just because, this recipe will be a guaranteed hit.
So what are you waiting for? Go grab some dough, make a batch, and let me know in the comments how they turned out!
