These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and indulgent twist on traditional tacos, combining seasoned ground beef, gooey cheese, and buttery garlic dough. Perfect for game day, parties, or a family-friendly dinner, these handheld treats are packed with flavor and easy to make. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces for an unforgettable snack experience!
Prep Time
- 15 minutes
Cook Time
- 12–15 minutes
Total Time
- 27–30 minutes
Servings
- 10 taco sticks
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough (or similar refrigerated pizza dough)
- 5 Colby Jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved (10 halves total)
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
For Serving:
- Salsa, guacamole, or sour cream (for dipping)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) .
- Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart into small pieces with a spoon.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the taco seasoning to the beef, following the instructions on the seasoning packet (typically adding water). Stir to combine and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
- On a lightly floured surface, roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough. Cut the dough into 10 equal rectangles using a knife or pizza cutter.
Step 4: Assemble the Taco Sticks
- Spoon a small portion of the seasoned beef onto each rectangle of dough.
- Place a halved cheese stick on top of the beef.
- Roll the dough around the filling, pinching the edges tightly to seal. Ensure no gaps remain to prevent cheese from leaking during baking.
- Place the assembled taco sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.
Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley.
- Generously brush this garlic butter mixture over each taco stick for added flavor and a golden crust.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes , or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked through.
Step 7: Serve
- Allow the taco sticks to cool slightly before serving to prevent burning your fingers or losing all the melty cheese.
- Serve warm with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
Pro Tips
- Cheese Variations: Swap Colby Jack and cheddar cheese sticks for pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for extra stretchiness.
- Add-Ins: Sprinkle diced onions, jalapeños, or black olives over the beef for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days . Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
- Freezing: Freeze unbaked taco sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition Facts (Per Taco Stick, based on 10 servings)
- Calories: ~280 kcal
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g
Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Cheesy Taco Sticks combine the best of both worlds—taco flavors and cheesy, buttery dough—for a handheld treat that’s as fun to eat as it is delicious. The gooey cheese center and crispy garlic-butter crust make every bite irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something indulgent, these taco sticks are sure to be a hit.
Ready to whip up these cheesy, savory delights? Grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a snack that’s cheesy, meaty, and oh-so-satisfying—it’s taco night reinvented!
