Cheesy Taco Sticks are the ultimate comfort food fusion, bringing together the gooey goodness of mozzarella, the seasoned kick of taco meat, and the fluffy hug of golden baked dough. Bite into one and you’ll get that melty cheese pull, a burst of savory ground beef, and a perfectly crisp crust — all in a tidy, hand-held package. They’re wildly addictive, incredibly easy to whip up, and always a smash hit with both kids and adults at parties, game nights, or any time you need a crowd-pleasing snack.
Ingredients You’ll Need
It’s stunning how such simple, everyday ingredients build something so crave-worthy! Every piece adds something special — from the savory beef to the fragrant herbs on top, each layer creates those irresistible Cheesy Taco Sticks flavors and textures.
- 1 pound ground beef: The star protein brings hearty taco flavor and satisfies every bite.
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning: Infuses the beef with a punchy, classic Tex-Mex taste; use your favorite blend or homemade mix!
- ½ cup salsa: Adds tang, moisture, and an extra layer of flavor; chunky or smooth, both work well.
- 1 can (8 count) refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough: The magic that creates that golden, fluffy exterior; whichever you pick, it’s fast and foolproof.
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks or string cheese: Delivers that glorious cheese pull; swap for shredded if needed.
- 1 tablespoon melted butter: When brushed on top, it guarantees a rich, shiny crust.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle, irresistible kick as part of the finishing touch.
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley: Brings a pop of color and a hint of earthy flavor.
- Salt to taste: The finishing sprinkle to make everything pop.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Mixture
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for effortless cleanup. In a skillet over medium heat, cook your ground beef until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up as you go. Once fully browned, drain excess fat and stir in taco seasoning and salsa. Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes; the sauce should thicken slightly and cling to the meat, making your filling extra flavorful without being runny.
Step 2: Roll and Fill the Dough
Unroll your can of pizza dough or crescent roll dough onto a clean, lightly floured surface. Slice it into 8 even rectangles — don’t stress if each piece isn’t perfectly even, rustic is part of the charm. On each rectangle, add a heaping spoonful of your taco meat mixture and nestle a mozzarella stick right in the center. That’s your cheesy core waiting to happen!
Step 3: Wrap and Seal
Gently fold the dough over your filling, completely encasing the meat and cheese. Pinch and tuck the edges firmly to prevent any deliciousness from leaking out in the oven. Place each wrapped stick seam side down onto your prepared baking sheet, lining them up with a little room to expand.
Step 4: Brush and Season for a Golden Finish
Brush each Cheesy Taco Stick with melted butter for a beautiful, golden sheen. Sprinkle liberally with garlic powder, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt. This little step delivers extra aroma, flavor, and that bakery-worthy finish everyone loves.
Step 5: Bake to Gooey Perfection
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12–15 minutes. You’re looking for a rich golden color and a slightly crispy exterior. Let them cool for a couple of minutes after baking — not only do they set a bit, but this pause also helps prevent molten cheese burns when you dive in for that first bite. Serve warm for ultimate gooeyness!
How to Serve Cheesy Taco Sticks
Garnishes
I love topping hot Cheesy Taco Sticks with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or green onions for a pop of color and zest. A tiny dash of extra taco seasoning or chili flakes gives them a little personality boost, too. If you want to go over the top, serve with lime wedges so everyone gets to add a bright squeeze at the table.
Side Dishes
Let these taco sticks shine as a main snack by serving with zesty salsa, cool sour cream, or creamy guacamole for dipping. If you’re going for a fun meal, pair them with a crisp salad, Mexican street corn, or a side of tortilla chips. Honestly, they match up beautifully with anything fresh, crunchy, or a little spicy.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, stack Cheesy Taco Sticks in a tall glass jar or arrange them like breadsticks on a big platter with a trio of dips in the center. You can even cut them into thirds and serve cocktail-style with toothpicks for a bite-sized taco treat. Kids go wild for them packed in lunchboxes, especially when there’s a dip on the side!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra Cheesy Taco Sticks can be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool fully before storing so they don’t steam and get soggy. They manage to stay tasty and surprisingly soft, even after a day or two!
Freezing
If you want to make a batch ahead, you’re in luck: these freeze beautifully. Once baked and cooled, wrap each Cheesy Taco Stick individually in parchment or foil, then place in a freezer bag. They’ll last up to 2 months. To thaw, leave them in the fridge overnight, or reheat straight from frozen if you’re in a hurry.
Reheating
To revive that just-baked flavor and crispiness, warm leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 7–8 minutes. If you’re microwaving, use short bursts and a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Eat them hot for the best cheesy center!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or a vegetarian filling?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a delicious, lighter alternative, and plant-based crumbles work seamlessly for a vegetarian version. The taco seasoning and salsa bring all the flavor, no matter what protein you choose.
Do Cheesy Taco Sticks get soggy if made ahead?
They hold up pretty well, especially if you let them cool before storing and reheat them in the oven rather than the microwave. The crust will crisp right back up, even after a night in the fridge.
What other cheeses can I use?
String cheese is super easy, but shredded cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend also taste amazing inside. Just wrap the cheese tightly with the meat so it stays in place while baking.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Just substitute with your favorite gluten-free pizza dough or crescent roll dough — the method and flavors will stay the same, so everyone can enjoy Cheesy Taco Sticks.
What dipping sauces work best?
Classic salsa, creamy guacamole, tangy sour cream, or even ranch dressing are all fantastic options. If you like a little heat, try a spicy chipotle sauce or a squeeze of sriracha, too!
Final Thoughts
Once you sink your teeth into these gooey, hearty Cheesy Taco Sticks, you’ll understand why they disappear in minutes every single time I serve them. They’re fun, family-friendly, and downright delicious. Give them a try and watch the smiles multiply at your table!
Print
Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 sticks
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer that combines the flavors of tacos with gooey melted cheese, all wrapped in a warm, golden-brown crust. These savory treats are perfect for parties, game days, or a fun family snack.
Ingredients
Ground Beef Mixture:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
- ½ cup salsa
Taco Sticks:
- 1 can (8 count) refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks or string cheese
- 1 tablespoon melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook the beef: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease, then add taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Prepare the sticks: Roll out the dough, cut into rectangles, place beef mixture and cheese in the center of each, fold over, and seal.
- Bake: Brush with butter, sprinkle with seasonings, and bake for 12–15 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
Notes
- You can use shredded cheese instead of cheese sticks.
- Ground turkey or plant-based crumbles can be substituted for beef.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *