If you’re looking for a snack that’s bursting with flavor, loaded with gooey cheese, and wrapped in golden pizza dough, these Cheesy Taco Sticks are just what you need. Perfect for game nights, family gatherings, or a fun dinner idea, they combine the boldness of tacos with the comfort of cheesy breadsticks. Let’s get into how you can whip up this irresistible treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound of ground beef
- 1 taco seasoning packet (or homemade seasoning if preferred)
- 1 tube of refrigerated Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 5 colby jack or cheddar cheese sticks, cut in half
- 4 tablespoons of melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (about 200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Beef:
Place a large skillet over medium heat and add your ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula and cook until browned all the way through, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease to avoid soggy dough later.
3. Season the Meat:
Sprinkle in the taco seasoning, following the instructions on the packet. Typically, this means adding some water and simmering until the mixture thickens. Stir everything together and then take it off the heat to cool slightly.
4. Prepare the Dough:
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough until it’s flat and even. Slice the dough into 10 rectangles—these will be your taco stick wraps.
5. Assemble the Taco Sticks:
Spoon a bit of the seasoned beef onto each piece of dough, spreading it out lengthwise. Place half a cheese stick on top of the meat. Then, carefully roll the dough around the filling, sealing the edges by pinching them closed to hold everything inside during baking.
6. Butter & Season:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and parsley. Use a pastry brush to coat each taco stick generously with the buttery herb mixture. This adds a savory, golden finish once baked.
7. Time to Bake:
Arrange the assembled taco sticks on your baking sheet, seam side down. Slide the tray into the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough turns a rich golden brown and the cheese inside begins to melt.
8. Serve & Enjoy:
Let the taco sticks cool for a few minutes before serving—they’ll be hot! Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces like salsa, sour cream, or queso.