Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe: A Fun and Flavor-Packed Snack for Game Days and Parties

If you're craving the bold flavors of tacos but want something fun, cheesy, and easy to eat, these Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect solution. They’re a mouthwatering snack, ideal for game days, family dinners, or as a party appetizer. Imagine the irresistible combination of seasoned taco meat and melted cheese wrapped inside soft pizza dough, finished with a garlicky butter topping. Each bite delivers a punch of taco flavor with a cheesy, crispy finish that's impossible to resist!

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

I discovered this recipe on Recipes by Lisa, and I’m excited to share it with you because it's become a favorite in my household. This recipe is also great for those who love tacos but want a fun, handheld version that's perfect for dipping in salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

A Little Background: The Origins of Taco-Inspired Snacks

Tacos have been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, beloved for their versatility and bold flavors. But in recent years, chefs and home cooks alike have been finding new ways to bring taco flavors into exciting new formats—like these Cheesy Taco Sticks. With busy schedules, people often look for ways to enjoy their favorite dishes in more convenient, portable forms. And this recipe does just that, transforming a traditional taco into a delightful snack or meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 (8 oz) can refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 2 tbsp butter, melted
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley (optional)
• Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping

Instructions:

1. Cook the Taco Meat:
2. • In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef until fully cooked. Drain the excess grease.
   • Add the taco seasoning and 1/2 cup of water to the skillet. Stir and cook for about 5 minutes until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat and allow the meat to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Dough:
4. • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
   • Roll out the pizza dough into a large rectangle on a floured surface.
   • Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut the dough into 8 equal rectangles.
5. Fill with Cheese and Taco Meat:
6. • Place about 2 tablespoons of the taco meat mixture on one side of each dough rectangle.
   • Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the taco meat.
7. Roll and Seal the Sticks:
8. • Roll up each dough rectangle, starting from the side with the filling. Pinch the edges and ends to seal the taco sticks.
   • Place the sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
9. Butter Topping:
10. • In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and parsley.
    • Brush the butter mixture over the top of the taco sticks.
11. Bake:
12. • Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
13. Serve:
14. • Serve the cheesy taco sticks with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.

Cooking Tips:

• For extra crispiness: Brush the taco sticks with an egg wash (1 beaten egg with 1 tbsp water) before baking.
• Cheese variation: Try pepper jack or Colby cheese for an extra kick of flavor.
• Make it vegetarian: Swap the ground beef with seasoned black beans or crumbled tofu for a plant-based version.
• Pair it with: A fresh side salad or a simple bowl of tortilla chips and salsa would round out this meal perfectly!

These Cheesy Taco Sticks are always a hit with family and friends. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly easy to make. The perfect recipe when you want to whip up something impressive with minimal effort!

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