Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe: A Delicious Twist on Taco Night

Looking for a fun and creative way to enjoy tacos? These Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect dish! Combining the best of cheesy, savory taco fillings with the convenience of a handheld snack, these taco-inspired sticks are ideal for game nights, parties, or an easy weeknight dinner. Soft dough is stuffed with seasoned beef, melted cheese, and all the taco fixings, creating a crispy, cheesy delight that’s sure to become a new family favorite.

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Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Making Cheesy Taco Sticks is simple, and you can customize them with your favorite taco toppings. Here’s a basic recipe that will have you enjoying cheesy, flavorful taco sticks in no time!

Ingredients:

1 lb ground beef: The heart of your taco filling.
1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning): Adds the perfect blend of spices.
1 can (8 oz) refrigerated pizza dough: The base for your taco sticks. You can use store-bought dough for convenience.
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Adds melty goodness inside the taco sticks.
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: For extra gooey cheese pull.
1/2 cup diced onion: A little bit of sweetness and crunch.
1/2 cup diced bell pepper (optional): For a bit of sweetness and color.
1/4 cup sour cream: For dipping.
1/4 cup salsa: For dipping.
1 tablespoon olive oil: For brushing the dough before baking.
Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): For garnish.

Instructions:

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Cook the beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning mix (or homemade seasoning) and follow the package instructions, usually adding water and simmering the mixture until thickened.
Prepare the dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to form a large rectangle, about 12 inches by 10 inches.
Assemble the taco sticks:
- Spread a thin layer of the cooked taco beef mixture evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the beef.
- Add any optional toppings, such as diced onions or bell peppers.
Cut and fold the dough:
- Carefully slice the dough into strips, about 2-3 inches wide.
- Roll each strip up like a mini taco or fold them over to create a thick stick shape. Alternatively, you can leave them as open pockets if you prefer.
- Place the taco sticks onto the prepared baking sheet.
Brush with olive oil: Lightly brush the tops of the taco sticks with olive oil to help them become golden and crispy while baking.
Bake the taco sticks: Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Serve: Remove the taco sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Enjoy: Serve your Cheesy Taco Sticks with sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping. Enjoy your cheesy, taco-filled goodness!

Advanced Techniques

While the recipe above is simple, here are a few advanced techniques to take your Cheesy Taco Sticks to the next level:

Use Homemade Pizza Dough

For an even more flavorful base, try making your own pizza dough at home. This will give your taco sticks a fresh, soft, and chewy texture that store-bought dough can’t quite match. It’s easy to make and allows you to control the ingredients.

Add a Spicy Kick

If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some finely chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture. You could also sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper inside the dough before rolling it up for a spicy surprise.

Try Different Meats or Substitutes

Instead of ground beef, you can try ground turkey or chicken for a leaner alternative. For a vegetarian option, use seasoned black beans, lentils, or a meat substitute like crumbled tofu or tempeh.

Use a Variety of Cheeses

While cheddar and mozzarella are great options, consider experimenting with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy twist, or a mix of Monterey Jack and gouda for a richer flavor. The possibilities are endless!

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

Making extra Cheesy Taco Sticks? No problem! Here’s how to store and reheat them:

Storage Tips

In the fridge: Store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
In the freezer: You can also freeze taco sticks for up to 2 months. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight before baking, or bake directly from frozen for about 20 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

Reheating Tips

To keep your taco sticks crispy, reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the sticks for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy again.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply want to try a different version, here are some adaptations and substitutions you can make to suit your needs:

Gluten-Free Version

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pizza dough, which is widely available at most grocery stores. You can also make your own using a gluten-free flour blend.

Dairy-Free Version

To make the recipe dairy-free, substitute the cheddar and mozzarella cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative. Vegan cheeses made from cashews or almond milk are great options. You can also skip the cheese entirely and load up the taco sticks with extra veggies or meat substitutes.

Low-Carb/Keto Version

For a low-carb or keto-friendly version, use a cauliflower pizza crust or a fathead dough (made with cheese and almond flour). You can also reduce the amount of cheese for a lighter option and load up on the taco filling and veggies.

Vegetarian Version

For a vegetarian version, swap the ground beef for black beans, pinto beans, or a meat substitute like crumbled tempeh or tofu. You can also add extra veggies like corn, diced tomatoes, or bell peppers.

FAQs About The Recipe

Can I use frozen pizza dough?

Yes, you can use frozen pizza dough. Just make sure to let it thaw in the fridge overnight, or at room temperature for about 1 hour, before rolling it out. This helps it stretch and rise properly.

Can I make taco sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the taco sticks up to a day in advance, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in the fridge. When you’re ready, bake them according to the instructions.

How do I make the taco sticks spicier?

If you like spice, add finely chopped jalapeños to the taco beef mixture or sprinkle some chili flakes on top of the sticks before baking. You can also serve them with a spicy dipping sauce or drizzle hot sauce over the top.

What should I serve with these taco sticks?

These taco sticks are perfect on their own, but you can also serve them with a side of Mexican rice, a fresh salad, or some homemade guacamole for extra flavor.

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks are the perfect fusion of two beloved dishes—cheese-filled tacos and pizza sticks! They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to satisfy any taco cravings. Whether you’re making them for a casual family dinner or serving them at your next gathering, these cheesy sticks will disappear fast. The blend of savory taco filling, melted cheese, and crispy dough makes for an irresistible combination. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy this fun, cheesy, and delicious snack tonight!

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe | Easy and Delicious Taco-Inspired Snack