Irresistibly Crunchy Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe Everyone Loves

Crispy and melted cheese transforms ordinary taco sticks into a mouthwatering snack that packs incredible flavor.

Our kitchen experiment turned into a delightful surprise when we first crafted these irresistible bites.

Warm tortillas wrapped around seasoned meat create a perfect handheld treat everyone will devour.

Simple ingredients come together quickly, making this recipe ideal for spontaneous gatherings or lazy weekend munching.

Spices dance through each bite, complementing the gooey cheese and tender filling.

We bet you’ll want to make a double batch because these will disappear faster than you can plate them.

The combination of crunchy exterior and soft interior guarantees these sticks will become your new favorite appetizer.

Reasons to Love Cheesy Taco Sticks

• A taco-inspired twist that transforms dinner into an exciting handheld treat everyone will love.
• These cheesy taco sticks require just a few simple ingredients and come together in under 30 minutes, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
• Packed with melty cheese and savory taco flavors, this recipe guarantees smiles from even the pickiest eaters at the dinner table.
• Using affordable ingredients like ground beef, tortillas, and cheese, this dish delivers maximum flavor without breaking the bank.

Ingredients Breakdown for Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Flour Tortillas: Soft and flexible base for creating crispy taco rolls, best when fresh and pliable.
• Ground Beef: Hearty protein that provides rich flavor and substance to the taco sticks.
• Shredded Cheese: Melty and gooey ingredient that adds creamy texture and savory taste.

• Taco Seasoning: Classic blend that gives authentic Mexican-inspired flavor to the meat.
• Salt, Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance overall taste profile.

• Parchment Paper: Helps prevent sticking and ensures easy cleanup.
• Vegetable Oil or Cooking Spray: Helps create golden crispy exterior and prevents burning.
• Optional Garnishes (Sour Cream, Salsa, Chopped Cilantro): Fresh toppings for added flavor and color.

How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks from Scratch

Step 1: Prepare Oven and Baking Surface

Crank up your oven to a toasty 375°F (190°C). Grab a baking sheet and either line it with parchment paper or give it a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Flavor-Packed Filling

• Ground beef
• Taco seasoning
• Shredded cheese
• Diced onions
• Chopped cilantro

Mix everything until the ingredients are thoroughly blended and the flavors dance together.

Step 3: Roll Out Dough

Take your pizza dough and roll it out on a clean surface into a large rectangular shape. Aim for a thin, even layer that will make perfect crispy sticks.

Step 4: Layer Tasty Ingredients

Spread the prepared beef mixture evenly across the rolled-out dough, leaving a small border around the edges to help seal the sticks.

Step 5: Shape Cheesy Taco Sticks

Carefully roll the dough from the long side, creating a tight log. Use a sharp knife to slice the log into individual sticks, about 1-2 inches wide.

Step 6: Prepare for Baking

Arrange the taco sticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each stick to ensure crispy edges.

Step 7: Add Final Touches

Brush the tops of the sticks with an egg wash or olive oil to create a golden, glossy finish. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top for extra indulgence.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sticks turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce like salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.

Helpful Notes for Cheesy Taco Sticks Success

• Choose the Right Cheese: Opt for mozzarella sticks or string cheese that melts smoothly and stretches perfectly when baked.
• Seal Edges Completely: Pinch the dough edges tightly to prevent cheese from leaking during baking, ensuring a clean and appetizing final result.
• Customize Seasoning Blend: Mix your favorite taco seasoning or use store-bought for an extra flavor punch that complements the cheesy interior.
• Serve Immediately Hot: Enjoy these taco sticks fresh out of the oven when the cheese is at its most melty and stretchy consistency.
• Dipping Sauce Options: Prepare quick salsa, sour cream, or guacamole as delicious accompaniments that elevate the entire snack experience.

Keeping Cheesy Taco Sticks Fresh Longer

• Store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container within the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor retention.
• Warm the sticks at 350F for 8-10 minutes, restoring their crispy exterior and melted cheese interior, making them taste almost freshly baked.
• For quick reheating, place taco sticks on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 30-45 seconds, watching carefully to prevent overcooking.
• Wrap cooled taco sticks individually in plastic wrap, then store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months, perfect for make-ahead meal planning.

Great Matches for Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Pair these cheesy taco sticks with a zesty homemade salsa that combines fresh tomatoes, cilantro, lime juice, and a hint of jalapeño for a vibrant kick.
• Serve alongside a refreshing sour cream dip mixed with chopped chives and a dash of lime zest to balance the rich, cheesy taco sticks.
• Complement the dish with a crisp Mexican lager like Modelo Especial or Corona, which cuts through the richness and enhances the spicy taco flavors.
• Select a light, fruity red like Grenache or a chilled rosé to provide a smooth contrast to the savory, cheesy taco sticks and cleanse the palate between bites.

New Twists for Cheesy Taco Sticks

• Gluten-Free Taco Sticks: Replace regular flour tortillas with gluten-free corn tortillas or grain-free almond flour wraps for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Vegetarian Protein Option: Swap ground beef with black beans, crumbled tofu, or plant-based meat alternatives to create a meat-free version that's just as satisfying.
• Low-Carb Cheese Rolls: Use large cheese slices as the outer wrapper instead of tortillas, creating a keto-friendly alternative that reduces carbohydrate content while maintaining the cheesy, savory flavor profile.
• Spicy Southwest Version: Add diced jalapeños, chipotle powder, or hot sauce to the filling for those who enjoy an extra kick of heat in their taco-inspired snacks.

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

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4.6 from 12 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 8 1x

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Description

Mouthwatering cheesy taco sticks deliver a flavor explosion straight from Mexican street cuisine. Crispy, golden exterior gives way to melted cheese and savory seasoned meat, promising a delightful snack you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Meats and Proteins:

• 1 pound (450 grams) ground beef

Dough and Base:

• 1 tube (13.8 ounces) refrigerated pizza dough
• 8 mozzarella string cheese sticks

Seasonings and Extras:

• 1 packet (1 ounce) taco seasoning mix (or homemade)
• ¼ cup water
• ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon dried parsley (optional)

Dipping Sauces:

• Salsa
• Guacamole
• Sour cream

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Instructions

1. Crank the oven to a robust 375F (190C), ensuring a consistent heat environment for optimal baking results.
2. Prepare the baking surface by laying down parchment paper or applying a light coating of grease to prevent sticking.
3. Unroll the crescent roll dough across a clean, flat work surface, creating a seamless rectangular foundation.
4. Meticulously spread the ground beef mixture evenly across the dough’s surface, maintaining a uniform layer.
5. Sprinkle shredded cheese generously over the seasoned meat, creating a rich, melty landscape.
6. Carefully roll the dough into a tight, compact cylinder, sealing the edges to contain the savory filling.
7. Using a sharp knife, slice the rolled dough into individual segments, creating uniform taco sticks.
8. Arrange the cut segments onto the prepared baking sheet, ensuring slight separation between each piece.
9. Dust the top of each taco stick with additional cheese for an extra crispy, golden-brown exterior.
10. Slide the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, watching for a golden-brown transformation.
11. Remove from the oven and let the taco sticks rest momentarily, allowing the filling to set and flavors to meld.
12. Serve immediately, accompanied by salsa, sour cream, or your preferred dipping sauce for a complete culinary experience.

Notes

• Opt for low-fat cheese to reduce calorie content while maintaining delicious flavor.
• Experiment with alternative ground meats like turkey or plant-based crumbles for dietary flexibility.
• Use gluten-free tortillas to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Create a lighter version by baking instead of frying, which cuts down on excess oil and calories.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Snacks, Appetizer, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8
• Calories: 305
• Sugar: 1 g
• Sodium: 680 mg
• Fat: 18 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 23 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg