Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make snack or appetizer featuring seasoned ground beef and melty cheese wrapped in crispy baked pizza dough. These handheld treats are perfect for game day, parties, or a quick family meal, combining classic taco flavors with gooey cheese and buttery, golden crusts.
Ingredients
Scale
Beef Filling
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
Dough & Cheese
- 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved
Butter Topping
- 4 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried parsley
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the taco seasoning mix according to the packet instructions. Cook for another minute to let flavors meld, then remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare the Dough: Lightly flour your work surface and roll out the tube of Pillsbury Pizza Dough. Cut the dough into 10 equal rectangles to create the base for your taco sticks.
- Assemble the Taco Sticks: Spoon a portion of the seasoned beef onto each dough rectangle, place a halved cheese stick on top, and then roll the dough around the filling. Carefully seal the edges to prevent filling from leaking. Place the assembled sticks seam side down onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Brush with Butter Mixture: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. Brush this flavorful butter mixture generously over each taco stick to add richness and a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake the taco sticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and cooked through, and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and allow the taco sticks to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dips such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- Feel free to use different types of cheese sticks like mozzarella or pepper jack for a flavor twist.
- Make sure to seal the dough edges well to avoid any cheese or beef leakage during baking.
- Serve with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream on the side for dipping.
- These can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
