Cheesy Taco Sticks

Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of tacos without the mess. They combine the classic taste of taco fillings wrapped in warm, pillowy pizza dough, creating a snack or meal that everyone loves. Whether you’re hosting a party, looking for a simple dinner solution, or craving a tasty appetizer for game night, these cheesy taco sticks are the perfect solution. They are easy to make with just a few ingredients and can be customized to fit your taste.

Not only are Cheesy Taco Sticks delicious, but they are also highly versatile. You can use different types of meat, swap out the cheese, or even add extra vegetables. Great for both kids and adults, these snacks can be made in under 30 minutes, making them a go-to recipe for busy days. Plus, they are perfect for dipping into salsa, guacamole, or sour cream, adding even more flavor to this delightful dish.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

Making Cheesy Taco Sticks is easier than you think! Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to create this tasty treat in just a few simple steps.

Ingredients

To get started, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound Ground Beef (or ground turkey)
• 1 packet Taco Seasoning
• 2 tablespoons Water
• 1 package Refrigerator Pizza Dough
• 8 sticks Colby-Jack Cheese Sticks
• 2 tablespoons Butter
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven is heating, prepare a baking sheet by lining it with parchment paper or lightly greasing it.

2. Cook the meat: In a skillet over medium heat, brown 1 pound of ground beef or ground turkey. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly. Once the meat is fully cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep your taco sticks from being greasy.

3. Add seasoning: Next, sprinkle the taco seasoning over the cooked meat. Pour in 2 tablespoons of water and mix well. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.

4. Prepare the pizza dough: Unroll the package of refrigerator pizza dough onto a floured surface. Make sure your surface is lightly floured to prevent sticking. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into strips that are about 1-2 inches wide.

5. Build the taco sticks: Take a strip of dough and place a spoonful of the beef mixture on one end, then add a Colby-Jack cheese stick on top of the meat. Carefully roll the dough around the filling, making sure to tuck in the edges. Seal the edges by pinching the dough together to keep the filling inside.

6. Add flavor: In a small bowl, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix in 1 teaspoon of garlic salt. Brush this mixture over each rolled taco stick for extra flavor and to help achieve a golden brown finish.

7. Bake: Place the prepared taco sticks on the lined baking sheet. Bake in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes or until the dough turns golden brown and is fully cooked.

8. Cool and serve: After baking, take the taco sticks out of the oven, and let them cool slightly on a wire rack. This will help prevent burns when you bite into them. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces!

How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks

Serving Cheesy Taco Sticks is straightforward and fun! They can be enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or main dish. Here are a few ideas on how to serve them:

• Dipping sauces: Prepare a variety of dipping sauces like salsa, guacamole, or sour cream to complement the flavors of the taco sticks. Each dip adds its unique twist, making each bite exciting.

• Garnishing: You can add some fresh toppings like chopped cilantro, jalapeños, or diced tomatoes on the side for those who want to enhance their taco experience.

• Platter style: Arrange the baked taco sticks on a large platter for gatherings. This way, guests can easily grab and enjoy them while mingling.

• Paring drinks: Serve with cold beverages like soda, iced tea, or fruit punch, making it a perfect treat for parties or family meals.

How to Store Cheesy Taco Sticks

If you want to save some Cheesy Taco Sticks for later, storing them properly is essential for maintaining their texture and flavor. Follow these steps to store and reheat them effectively:

• Cooling: Allow the taco sticks to cool completely after baking. This step prevents condensation inside the storage container, which can make the dough soggy.

• Storage: Place the cooled taco sticks in an airtight container. If you plan to keep them for more than a couple of days, you can also wrap them in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in the container for extra protection.

• Refrigerating: Cheesy Taco Sticks can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep them in an airtight container to maximize freshness.

• Freezing: For longer storage, you can freeze the taco sticks. Wrap each one individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

• Reheating: To reheat Cheesy Taco Sticks, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake them for about 10-15 minutes until they are heated through. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, but keep in mind that this may make the dough a little chewy.

Tips to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Customize the filling: Feel free to get creative with the filling! You can incorporate beans, corn, or diced peppers into the beef mixture for added texture and flavor.

• Try different cheeses: Swap out the Colby-Jack cheese sticks for other types of cheese, such as cheddar or pepper jack, to create variations in flavor.

• Make it vegetarian: For a meatless version, substitute ground beef with black beans or lentils, and maintain the taco seasoning for a delicious vegetarian option.

• Add spices: If you want a bit of heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the beef mixture.

• Double the recipe: If you’re having a gathering or party, make a double batch! Cheesy Taco Sticks are sure to disappear quickly, and having extra on hand is always a good idea.

Variation

There are many ways to vary this recipe for Cheesy Taco Sticks to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Chicken Taco Sticks: Instead of beef or turkey, try using shredded chicken mixed with taco seasoning. This keeps with the taco theme but offers a lighter alternative.

• Pesto Chicken Taco Sticks: For a unique twist, mix shredded chicken with pesto before wrapping it in the pizza dough with cheese sticks. Bake as usual for an Italian-inspired snack.

• Breakfast Taco Sticks: Create a breakfast version by using scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese as the filling. These can be enjoyed in the morning or at brunch.

• Buffalo Chicken Taco Sticks: Use shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce for a spicy kick. Pair it with blue cheese or ranch dressing for dipping.

• Veggie Taco Sticks: Use a mix of colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms combined with cheese for a delicious vegetarian option.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked meat for Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked steak, chicken, or even rotisserie chicken. Just ensure to mix in the taco seasoning to enhance the flavor before wrapping it in dough.

2. Can I make Cheesy Taco Sticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the taco sticks in advance and store them in the refrigerator unbaked. Bake them fresh right before serving for maximum flavor and freshness.

3. What dipping sauces go well with Cheesy Taco Sticks?

Common and popular dipping sauces include salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or even ranch dressing. You can also try queso for a cheesy dip.

4. Are Cheesy Taco Sticks suitable for freezing?

Yes, they freeze quite well! Just ensure that they are properly wrapped and stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness and avoid freezer burn.

5. Can I use gluten-free pizza dough for this recipe?

Yes! You can easily make Cheesy Taco Sticks with gluten-free pizza dough available in stores or by using a homemade gluten-free recipe. Just follow the same steps for assembly and baking.

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