Irresistible Cheesy Taco Sticks

The Ultimate Handheld Comfort Food

Looking for a fun, flavorful, and ultra-satisfying twist on taco night? These Cheesy Taco Sticks are everything you didn’t know you needed—cheesy, beefy, buttery, and perfectly golden. Wrapped in soft Pillsbury pizza dough and loaded with seasoned taco meat and melty cheese, they’re the perfect party appetizer, weeknight dinner, or after-school snack.

This recipe is ideal for busy families, game day gatherings, or anyone who loves tacos but wants to skip the mess. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, Cheesy Taco Sticks are your go-to when you’re craving something warm, cheesy, and crowd-pleasing. Let’s get into how to make them!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Taco Sticks

  • Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour these handheld treats.
  • Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time using store-bought dough and a seasoning packet.
  • Versatile: Easily customizable with your favorite meats, cheeses, and seasonings.
  • Portable: Great for lunchboxes, potlucks, or on-the-go snacks.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Make a batch and freeze extras for quick meals later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning mix
  • 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough
  • 5 colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley

These pantry staples come together for a truly comforting and flavorful snack or meal. The gooey cheese and savory taco meat are perfectly wrapped in soft, golden dough and finished with a garlic butter glaze that’s simply irresistible.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to ensure easy cleanup and prevent sticking.

2. Cook the Beef

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess fat. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, following the packet instructions—usually by mixing with water and simmering until thickened. Set aside to cool slightly.

3. Prepare the Dough

Unroll your Pillsbury Pizza Dough onto a lightly floured surface. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to cut the dough into 10 equal rectangles.

4. Assemble the Taco Sticks

Place a spoonful of taco-seasoned beef on each dough rectangle. Add half a cheese stick on top of the meat. Roll the dough around the filling, pinching the edges tightly to seal. Place each taco stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

5. Brush with Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Brush generously over each taco stick. This step adds flavor and gives the sticks a gorgeous golden finish.

6. Bake

Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the dough is golden brown and fully cooked through. Let cool slightly before serving.

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Pastry brush (or spoon for brushing butter)
  • Knife or pizza cutter
  • Cutting board (optional)

Serving Suggestions

These cheesy taco sticks shine on their own but are even better when served with:

  • Salsa
  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Ranch dip
  • Queso blanco

For drinks, consider pairing them with a cold Mexican soda, iced tea, or even a light beer like Corona or Pacifico for the adults.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

  • Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes to the beef mixture.
  • Swap the Meat: Ground turkey, chicken, or even black beans for a vegetarian option all work well.
  • Cheese Variety: Use mozzarella sticks for extra gooeyness or pepper jack for a spicy twist.
  • Mini Taco Sticks: Cut the dough into 20 smaller pieces and use quartered cheese sticks for bite-sized versions.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble ahead and bake just before serving.

How to Store and Reheat

Storing Leftovers:
Allow taco sticks to cool completely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To Freeze:
Place cooked and cooled taco sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet to flash freeze. Once solid, transfer to a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

  • In the oven: 350°F for 8–10 minutes
  • In the air fryer: 350°F for 5–6 minutes
  • In the microwave: 30–45 seconds (though the dough may not stay as crispy)

Variations to Try

  • Buffalo Chicken Sticks: Replace beef with shredded rotisserie chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, and use mozzarella cheese.
  • Breakfast Style: Use scrambled eggs, crumbled sausage, and cheddar.
  • Pizza Version: Fill with pepperoni and mozzarella, then serve with marinara dipping sauce.
  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute taco beef with refried beans, sautéed veggies, or lentils.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use homemade dough?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade pizza dough recipe, go for it. Just be sure to roll it thin enough to wrap and seal easily.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the taco sticks and refrigerate them uncooked for up to 24 hours. Bake just before serving.

What cheese works best?
Colby jack and cheddar are classic choices, but you can use any melty cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack.

Do these freeze well?
Yes! They freeze beautifully. Just follow the storage tips above and reheat as needed.

How do I keep them from opening while baking?
Make sure to pinch the edges well, and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet. Avoid overfilling with beef.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Taco Sticks are the kind of easy weeknight win we all need in our recipe rotation. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, entertaining guests, or simply want something cheesy and comforting, this recipe delivers on every front.

If you loved this recipe…

👉 Share it with your friends and family on Pinterest, Facebook, or Instagram!
👉 Subscribe to the blog for more delicious, easy-to-follow recipes like this every week!

Your kitchen just got a little more delicious. Happy cooking! 🌮🧀

Leave a Comment