Stuffed Cheesy Taco Breadsticks

Introduction

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and flavorful twist on the classic taco. These golden, cheesy, and slightly crispy sticks are made with seasoned ground beef, melted cheese, and soft dough. They’re easy to make, perfect for snacking or serving as a fun appetizer at parties, game nights, or family dinners.

I remember the first time I made these for a family movie night, and they were gone in minutes! The combination of the savory taco-inspired filling, gooey cheese, and crispy outside creates an irresistible treat that everyone loves. The best part? Each bite offers a delicious cheesy pull, adding to the excitement.

What makes these sticks so special is how versatile they are. You can dip them in your favorite salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an extra layer of flavor, or get creative with toppings like jalapeños or green onions. Whether you’re serving them as a fun party snack or a hearty meal, these cheesy taco sticks will quickly become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Perfect for:

• Game day snacks
• Family dinners
• Parties and gatherings
• Movie nights
• Taco lovers

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Taco Sticks

Here’s why Cheesy Taco Sticks are sure to impress:

• Savory and Cheesy: The combination of seasoned ground beef and melted cheese creates a deliciously gooey and savory filling that everyone will love.
• Crispy Exterior: The dough becomes crispy and golden on the outside while staying soft and cheesy inside, creating the perfect balance of textures.
• Customizable: You can easily adjust the fillings by adding your favorite taco toppings, like onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños.
• Perfect for Dipping: Serve these taco sticks with your favorite dipping sauces, such as salsa, sour cream, or guacamole, for an added flavor boost.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple and quick, so you can enjoy these cheesy treats in no time.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 8 taco sticks
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 15g, Carbs: 25g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Cheesy Taco Sticks:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade taco seasoning)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 package refrigerated pizza dough (or homemade dough)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for brushing)
• 1/2 cup salsa (for dipping)
• 1/2 cup sour cream (for dipping)
• Optional: Jalapeños, diced onions, chopped cilantro

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Beef: A flavorful base for the taco filling, ground beef is seasoned with taco seasoning to deliver that familiar taco taste.
• Cheddar and Mozzarella Cheese: The combination of sharp cheddar and melty mozzarella gives the taco sticks a rich, cheesy texture and flavor.
• Pizza Dough: Pre-made pizza dough makes this recipe quick and easy, giving the taco sticks a soft and doughy interior that contrasts beautifully with the crispy outer layer.
• Taco Seasoning: Adds the perfect balance of spices, such as cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and paprika, to bring out the bold taco flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Cheesy Taco Sticks:

Prepare the Filling:

1. Cook the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add Taco Seasoning: Stir in the taco seasoning mix and follow the instructions on the packet, adding water as required. Simmer the beef mixture for 5-7 minutes until the flavors are well combined and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
3. Prepare the Cheese: While the beef is cooling, shred the cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Mix them together in a small bowl for easy assembly.

Assemble the Taco Sticks:

4. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup.
5. Roll Out the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Roll it into a rectangle, about 10×14 inches in size.
6. Add the Filling: Spread the cooked taco beef evenly over the pizza dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Sprinkle the shredded cheese evenly on top of the beef.
7. Roll Up the Dough: Starting from one edge, carefully roll up the dough into a log or cylinder shape, pinching the seams to seal.
8. Cut the Sticks: Slice the rolled dough into approximately 1-inch wide pieces, creating 8 taco sticks. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.

Bake the Taco Sticks:

9. Brush with Olive Oil: Lightly brush the tops of the taco sticks with olive oil for a golden, crispy finish.
10. Bake: Bake the taco sticks in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
11. Cool Slightly: Let the taco sticks cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Cheesy Taco Sticks are delicious on their own, but you can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces for added flavor:

• With Salsa: Serve with a side of fresh salsa for a tangy, zesty dip.
• With Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream complements the cheesy filling and adds creaminess.
• With Guacamole: For an extra indulgent snack, dip in some guacamole for a smooth, rich addition.
• With Jalapeños or Hot Sauce: Spice things up with some sliced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.

Additional Tips for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Here are some tips to ensure your Cheesy Taco Sticks are perfect every time:

• Customize the Filling: Add diced onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Use Lean Ground Meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef, without compromising flavor.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture compared to pre-shredded cheese.
• Don’t Overstuff the Sticks: Be sure not to overfill the dough with the beef and cheese, as it can make rolling and cutting difficult. A small layer of filling is plenty.
• Chill the Dough: If the dough is difficult to roll, chill it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to make it easier to handle.

Recipe Variations for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Here are 10 variations you can try for Cheesy Taco Sticks:

• Chicken Taco Sticks: Swap the ground beef for shredded cooked chicken seasoned with taco spices.
• Vegetarian Taco Sticks: Use a combination of black beans, corn, and peppers in place of meat for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Spicy Taco Sticks: Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture for an extra spicy kick.
• Beef and Bacon Taco Sticks: Add crumbled cooked bacon to the taco filling for a smoky, savory twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Taco Sticks: Mix in buffalo sauce with shredded chicken for a spicy, tangy flavor.
• Cheesy Taco Sticks with Avocado: Add sliced avocado on top of the taco beef before rolling it up for added creaminess.
• BBQ Taco Sticks: Replace taco seasoning with BBQ sauce and smoked meat for a BBQ flavor.
• Mexican Street Corn Taco Sticks: Add a layer of roasted corn, chili powder, and cotija cheese for a Mexican street corn-inspired version.
• Tex-Mex Taco Sticks: Use a combination of ground beef, beans, and cheddar cheese for a Tex-Mex version.
• Breakfast Taco Sticks: Make a breakfast version by adding scrambled eggs and breakfast sausage to the filling.

Freezing and Storage for Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Freezing: To freeze taco sticks, assemble them up until the baking step, then place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag and store for up to 2 months. Bake directly from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes.
• Storage: Leftover taco sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.

Special Equipment for Cheesy Taco Sticks

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Cheesy Taco Sticks easier:

• Skillet: A large skillet is perfect for cooking the ground beef and taco seasoning.
• Rolling Pin: A rolling pin helps evenly flatten the dough for uniform taco sticks.
• Pizza Cutter: A pizza cutter makes slicing the rolled dough into sticks fast and easy.
• Baking Sheet: A baking sheet lined with parchment paper or a silicone mat ensures the taco sticks bake evenly and don’t stick.

Frequently Asked Questions for Cheesy Taco Sticks

1. Can I use a different kind of cheese?
   Yes, feel free to substitute the cheddar and mozzarella with other cheese varieties like Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack for added flavor.
2. Can I make these without meat?
   Yes! You can use beans, corn, or any other veggies to make a vegetarian version of the taco sticks.
3. Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought pizza dough?
   Absolutely! If you prefer homemade dough, you can make your own and use it in place of the refrigerated dough.
4. Can I bake these ahead of time?
   Yes, you can bake them and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven when ready to serve.
5. How do I make these gluten-free?
   You can substitute the pizza dough with a gluten-free dough, and make sure the taco seasoning and other ingredients are gluten-free.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and irresistible twist on classic tacos that will quickly become a favorite in your household. The crispy, golden exterior gives way to a gooey, cheesy interior filled with seasoned beef, creating a perfect balance of flavors in every bite. Whether you’re hosting a party, having a family dinner, or just craving a savory snack, these taco sticks are a fantastic option.

You can customize the filling with your favorite taco ingredients—add jalapeños, sour cream, guacamole, or even salsa for an extra burst of flavor. They’re quick to prepare, making them an easy choice for busy days or last-minute gatherings.

Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate comfort food with a fun twist that everyone will enjoy. So go ahead, make them today and let the cheesy goodness bring joy to your next meal or event!

I’d love to see how your Cheesy Taco Sticks turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy cooking!