Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and flavorful snack perfect for taco lovers. Ground beef seasoned with taco spices and simmered to perfection is wrapped in soft pizza dough with melted cheese, baked until golden brown and crispy. These handheld treats are ideal for parties, game days, or anytime you crave a cheesy, savory bite with a Mexican twist.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Taco Sticks:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade taco seasoning)
- ¾ cup water
- 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley
Optional Dipping Sauces:
- Salsa
- Sour cream
- Guacamole
- Queso dip
Instructions
- Cook the Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and fully cooked.
- Add Seasoning: Drain excess grease from the beef, then add taco seasoning and ¾ cup water to the skillet.
- Simmer Meat Mixture: Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes until thickened, then remove from heat.
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 425°F (220°C) to get ready for baking.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. If using crescent roll dough, pinch the seams together to form one continuous sheet.
- Add Filling: Spread the cooked taco meat evenly over half of the dough sheet.
- Top with Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the meat-covered half of the dough.
- Fold Dough: Fold the other half of the dough over the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Slice Strips: Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the filled dough into 1-inch wide strips.
- Twist Strips: Slightly twist each strip to help seal and give them a twisted appearance.
- Arrange for Baking: Place the twisted taco sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced out evenly.
- Brush and Season: Brush each stick with melted butter and sprinkle garlic powder and dried parsley on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until the sticks turn golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the taco sticks to cool slightly, then serve warm with your choice of salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or queso dip.
Notes
- You can substitute pizza dough with crescent roll dough for a flakier texture.
- Make homemade taco seasoning for a fresher taste and to control sodium levels.
- Use a blend of cheddar and mozzarella cheese for the best melty and flavorful results.
- Ensure the edges are sealed well to prevent filling leakage during baking.
- Serve immediately for best taste and texture; leftovers can be reheated in the oven to retain crispiness.
