Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun, handheld twist on classic tacos perfect for family dinners, game day snacks, or even school lunches. Warm breadsticks are stuffed with seasoned taco meat and gooey melted cheese, then baked until golden brown. Dip them in salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for the ultimate comfort food bite.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to prepare taco sticks step by step, why they’re a crowd favorite, and creative ways to serve them up. Whether you’re feeding a big group or just craving a cozy snack, these cheesy taco sticks are guaranteed to be a hit.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Handheld Favorite – Perfect for dipping, snacking, or on-the-go meals.
- Cheesy & Gooey – Every bite is loaded with melted cheese.
- Kid-Friendly – A fun recipe the whole family will love.
- Customizable – Add veggies, different cheeses, or extra spice.
- Simple & Quick – Minimal prep with ready-made dough.
- Crowd Pleaser – Ideal for parties, game nights, or casual dinners.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll sheets)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a skillet, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning with 2–3 tbsp water, stir, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the pizza dough and cut into rectangles (about 4×6 inches).
- Fill: Place 1–2 tbsp taco meat and a sprinkle of cheese in the center of each rectangle.
- Seal & Roll: Fold dough over filling and pinch edges to seal tightly, forming sticks.
- Bake: Arrange on a lined baking sheet. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic and onion powder. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
- Serve: Let cool slightly, garnish with herbs, and serve warm with dipping sauces.
How to Serve
- Plating Tips: Serve on a platter with dipping bowls of salsa, queso, and sour cream.
- Side Pairings: Great with Mexican rice, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad.
- Leftover Uses: Slice into bite-sized pieces for nacho-style appetizers.
- Beverage Pairing: Enjoy with iced tea, lemonade, or a cold beer for adults.
Additional Tips
- Seal dough edges well to prevent cheese leakage.
- Use pre-shredded cheese for convenience or shred fresh for extra meltiness.
- Try mixing in black beans or corn with the taco meat for added texture.
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or pepper jack cheese.
- Vegetarian: Swap meat for refried beans or sautéed veggies.
- Breakfast Twist: Use scrambled eggs, sausage, and cheese.
- Herb Upgrade: Brush with cilantro-lime butter after baking.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Wrap individually and freeze up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake or air fry for best crispness avoid the microwave if possible.
Special Equipment
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun, flavorful, and cheesy twist on taco night. With their golden crust, melty center, and endless dipping options, they’re guaranteed to be a new family favorite. Quick to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
Can I use crescent roll dough instead of pizza dough?
Yes! Crescent roll sheets make excellent taco sticks with a buttery flavor.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely assemble and refrigerate unbaked sticks, then bake before serving.
What cheese works best?
Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend melt beautifully.
Can I air fry taco sticks?
Yes air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes until golden and crispy.
Cheesy Taco Sticks: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun twist on tacos made with golden dough, melted cheese, and flavorful taco meat. Ideal for parties, lunches, or quick dinners.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 sticks 1x
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey)
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade blend)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend)
1 can refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll sheets)
2 tbsp olive oil (for brushing)
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
Fresh cilantro or parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. In a skillet, brown ground beef until fully cooked. Drain excess grease. Add taco seasoning with 2–3 tbsp water, stir, and simmer for 2–3 minutes.
2. Roll out the pizza dough and cut into rectangles (about 4×6 inches).
3. Place 1–2 tbsp taco meat and a sprinkle of cheese in the center of each rectangle.
4. Fold dough over filling and pinch edges to seal tightly, forming sticks.
5. Arrange on a lined baking sheet. Brush with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic and onion powder. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown.
6. Let cool slightly, garnish with herbs, and serve warm with dipping sauces.
Notes
You can use crescent roll sheets instead of pizza dough for a more buttery taste.
Try adding jalapeños for spice or black beans for more texture.
Reheat in an oven or air fryer to retain crispiness. Avoid microwaving for best results.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Snacks
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 stick
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
