There’s something undeniably comforting about cheesy, beef-filled taco sticks wrapped in golden, pillowy dough. Whether you’re looking for a fun appetizer, a kid-friendly snack, or a simple yet satisfying dinner, these cheesy taco sticks will hit the spot. They bring together all the best flavors of tacos—seasoned beef, melty cheese, and soft, warm dough—into a handheld treat that’s perfect for dipping.

These taco sticks remind me of Friday nights growing up, when my family would gather around the table with easy-to-share meals. My mom loved making foods that didn’t require utensils, so we could just grab, dip, and enjoy while talking about our day. The gooey cheese and flavorful taco filling made these an instant favorite.

Whether you’re hosting a game night, needing a quick dinner for the family, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe is a must-try. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover taco meat in a new and exciting way!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Made with refrigerated pizza dough, these taco sticks come together in no time.
• Kid-Friendly – A perfect finger food that kids and adults will love.
• Customizable – You can switch up the cheese, add toppings, or even make a vegetarian version.
• Perfect for Dipping – Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for an extra flavor boost.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Taco Filling

Start by cooking the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat. Use a wooden spoon to break it apart as it browns. Once it’s fully cooked, drain any excess grease.

Next, add the taco seasoning and water, stirring well to coat the meat. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle, about 1/4 inch thick.

Use a knife or a pizza cutter to divide the dough into 8 equal strips.

Step 3: Fill and Fold

Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over each strip of dough. Then, spoon a small amount of the seasoned taco meat over the cheese.

Carefully fold each strip over, pinching the edges to seal. You should end up with a long, stuffed taco stick.

Step 4: Brush and Bake

Place the taco sticks on a lined baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and onion powder. Brush this mixture over the top of each taco stick for a golden, flavorful crust.

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the sticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once they’re out of the oven, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Helpful Tips

• Don’t Overfill – Adding too much taco meat or cheese can make it difficult to seal the dough properly.
• Seal the Edges Well – Press the edges firmly to prevent the filling from leaking out while baking.
• Use Different Cheeses – Try mixing mozzarella with cheddar for an extra gooey texture.
• Make It Spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the taco meat for a kick.
• Dipping Sauce Ideas – Serve with salsa, queso, ranch, or a spicy chipotle mayo for extra flavor.

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 8 taco sticks
• Category: Appetizer, Snack
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican-American
• Diet: Kid-Friendly

Notes

• These taco sticks are best served fresh, but they also reheat well.
• You can prepare the taco meat ahead of time and store it in the fridge for quicker assembly.
• Swap out ground beef for ground turkey or a plant-based alternative for a lighter option.

Nutritional Information

(Per serving – approximate values)

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 2g

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated pizza dough?

Absolutely! If you have time, homemade pizza dough works great. Just make sure to roll it out thin enough to wrap around the filling.

Can I freeze these taco sticks?

Yes! Once they are fully baked and cooled, you can freeze them in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.

What are the best dipping sauces for cheesy taco sticks?

Classic salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or queso dip are all delicious options. You can also try spicy ranch or a creamy avocado dip.

Can I make a vegetarian version?

Yes! Swap out the ground beef for seasoned black beans, refried beans, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or lentils.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes for the best texture.
• Freezing: Wrap each taco stick individually in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm them up in the oven or air fryer for a crispy texture, or microwave for a softer result.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Peruvian Grilled Chicken with Creamy Green Sauce
• Spinach & Cheese Omelette – A Simple Yet Satisfying Breakfast
• Cheesy Taco Sticks

Conclusion

Cheesy taco sticks are an easy, fun, and delicious way to enjoy taco flavors in a portable, dippable form. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just to satisfy a cheesy craving, they’re sure to be a hit. With minimal prep and tons of flavor, this recipe is one you’ll want to keep on repeat.

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