Baked Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and delicious twist on traditional tacos. They make a perfect snack, appetizer, or even a main dish for taco night. These sticks are filled with seasoned ground beef and melted cheese, all wrapped in a crispy, golden pizza crust. They’re easy to make and sure to be a hit with both kids and adults!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (13.8-ounce) can Pillsbury Refrigerated Pizza Crust
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- Butter for brushing (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh chopped cilantro
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Prepare the Ground Beef:
- In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it’s browned and no longer pink, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Add the taco seasoning mix and follow the package instructions (usually involving adding water and simmering the mixture).
- Cook until the beef is fully seasoned and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Prepare the Pizza Crust:
- Roll out the Pillsbury Refrigerated Pizza Crust on a lightly floured surface.
- Cut the crust into rectangles or strips, about 3-4 inches wide and 6-8 inches long.
- Assemble the Taco Sticks:
- Place a small amount of the taco-seasoned ground beef in the center of each rectangle.
- Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded Mexican blend cheese over the beef.
- Fold the sides of the dough over the filling and pinch the edges to seal them, forming a stick shape.
- Bake the Taco Sticks:
- Place the assembled taco sticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Optional: Brush the tops with melted butter for extra flavor and a golden finish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve:
- Remove the taco sticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before serving.
- Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.
Cook’s Tips and Variations:
- Cheese: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or a combination of your favorites.
- Dough: If you prefer, you can use homemade pizza dough instead of the refrigerated kind.
- Add-Ins: Add finely chopped onions, bell peppers, or jalapeños to the ground beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
- Dipping Sauce: Serve with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, or your favorite taco toppings for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make these taco sticks ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the taco sticks and refrigerate them for a few hours before baking. Just cover them with plastic wrap until you’re ready to bake.
Q: Can I freeze the taco sticks? A: Absolutely. You can freeze the unbaked taco sticks on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven or a toaster oven to keep the crust crispy.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat? A: Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used instead of ground beef. You can also use a meatless ground beef substitute for a vegetarian version.
Q: Can I add vegetables to the filling? A: Absolutely! Diced bell peppers, onions, or even corn can be added to the ground beef mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with these taco sticks? A: Salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and queso dip are all excellent choices for dipping these taco sticks.
Baked Cheesy Taco Sticks are a simple yet delicious way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a fun, handheld form. They’re perfect for parties, game days, or a cozy family dinner. Easy to customize and quick to make, these taco sticks are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy them fresh from the oven with your favorite toppings and dipping sauces!
