Print

Cheesy Taco Sticks Recipe

4.7 from 63 reviews

Cheesy Taco Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer combining seasoned ground beef, gooey melted cheeses, and soft, buttery pizza dough. Perfect for parties, game day, or a tasty snack, these taco sticks offer a flavorful twist on traditional breadsticks with a satisfying mix of taco-inspired spices and classic cheeses.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Dough and Topping

  • 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 tablespoon butter, melted
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Beef Filling

  • 1/2 pound ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning

For Serving

  • Salsa (for dipping)
  • Sour cream (for dipping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until it is browned and fully cooked, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat. Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef along with a small amount of water as indicated on the seasoning packet, then stir and simmer for a few minutes until the mixture is thickened and flavorful.
  2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the taco sticks.
  3. Roll Out the Dough: On a clean surface, roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle approximately 12×9 inches, ensuring an even thickness throughout.
  4. Assemble the Taco Sticks: Spread the cooked taco-seasoned beef evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheeses over the beef layer.
  5. Cut and Shape: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough lengthwise into strips about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip gently to form a spiral, then place them spaced apart on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  6. Brush with Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine melted butter and garlic powder. Brush this mixture generously over each twisted strip to add flavor and promote browning.
  7. Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is cooked through and the cheese is melted and bubbly with lightly golden edges.
  8. Serve: Remove the cheesy taco sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with salsa and sour cream on the side for dipping.

Notes

  • Be sure not to overfill the dough strips to prevent filling from spilling out during baking.
  • Use a pizza cutter for cleaner and easier slicing.
  • For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the beef mixture.
  • Leftovers can be reheated in the oven to restore crispness.
  • Can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner protein option.

Keywords: cheesy taco sticks, taco appetizer, party snack, pizza dough recipe, cheesy snacks, Tex-Mex appetizer