Description
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!
Ingredients
- 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)
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.