Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful twist on your favorite tacos with these Cheesy Taco Sticks! These savory snacks are bursting with the flavors of seasoned ground beef, gooey cheeses, and a touch of freshness from tomatoes and green onions, all wrapped up in golden, crispy pizza dough. Perfect for game day, a casual family dinner, or just a cozy night in, these sticks are not only easy to make but also a hit with everyone. Serve them warm alongside salsa or sour cream for dipping, and watch as they disappear in no time!
Ingredients
- 1 package of refrigerated pizza dough
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Cooking spray or olive oil
- Salsa or sour cream for dipping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 12 cheesy taco sticks
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease a baking sheet with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Make sure to drain any excess fat for a leaner filling.
- Stir in the taco seasoning and follow the package instructions, adding water as needed. Allow the mixture to cook for a few more minutes until the beef is fully seasoned and fragrant.
- Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough on a floured surface, forming it into a rectangle. Cut the dough into strips that are about 1 inch wide.
- Place a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef on each strip of dough, leaving enough space at the edges for folding.
- Top each beef portion with a generous mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese, diced tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro, if you’re using it.
- Fold the edges of the dough over the filling and roll them up tightly to create sticks. Pinch the ends firmly to seal each stick.
- Arrange the filled sticks on the prepared baking sheet and lightly brush the tops with olive oil to encourage a beautiful golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the sticks are golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm, alongside salsa or sour cream for dipping, and enjoy the burst of flavor!
Notes or Tips
For an extra kick, feel free to add sliced jalapeños or diced bell peppers to the filling! If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with black beans or lentils and continue with the same delicious toppings. These taco sticks are best served fresh out of the oven, but they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for a couple of days. Simply reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to regain their crispy texture.
Cooking Techniques
Mastering the art of rolling the dough is key to creating these tasty treats! Make sure to not overfill the taco sticks to avoid spilling during baking. Pinching the ends securely will help keep all that wonderful filling inside while they bake. Additionally, a light brushing of oil not only helps with browning but also adds a touch of flavor to the dough’s surface.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work wonderfully as a lighter alternative. You could also use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quick and tasty filling.
Are these freezer-friendly?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked stuffed taco sticks. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and freeze. When ready to enjoy, bake them from frozen, adding an extra few minutes to the cooking time.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a joyful fusion of all things cheesy and taco-flavored, making them a fantastic option for gatherings or a midnight snack! The combination of textures and flavors will keep everyone coming back for more. So gather your ingredients, crank up the oven, and enjoy these delicious treats fresh from your kitchen!