Cheesy Taco Sticks

Craving a hearty and cheesy snack that’s perfect for game day or movie night? Look no further than these delicious Cheesy Taco Sticks! Packed with all the flavors you love in a classic taco, these sticks are sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salsa and sour cream, for dipping

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
3. Add the taco seasoning to the beef, following the instructions on the packet.
4. Roll out the pizza dough on the prepared baking sheet. Cut into four equal rectangles.
5. Spoon the taco meat onto each rectangle, then top with shredded cheese.
6. Roll up the dough, starting from the long side, to create a stick shape. Press the edges to seal.
7. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the dough is golden and cooked through.
8. Sprinkle with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy with salsa and sour cream on the side.

Nutrition Information:

– Calories: 380

– Fat: 20g

– Protein: 18g

– Carbohydrates: 32g

Popular questions:

• Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?

A: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef in this recipe for a leaner option.

• Q: Can I add vegetables like bell peppers and onions to the taco meat?

A: Absolutely! Feel free to customize the taco meat with your favorite vegetables for added flavor and nutrients.

• Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of cheddar?

A: Yes, you can use any melty cheese like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.

• Q: Can I make these ahead of time and reheat them?

A: These Cheesy Taco Sticks are best when served fresh out of the oven, but you can reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up.

• Q: Can I freeze the unbaked taco sticks for later?

A: Yes, you can assemble the taco sticks and freeze them before baking. When ready to eat, bake them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Helpful tips:

• For a spicy kick, add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the taco meat.
• Top the taco sticks with sliced black olives and diced tomatoes before baking for added flavor and texture.
• Serve the Cheesy Taco Sticks with guacamole or queso dip for an extra indulgent treat.
• Experiment with different seasoning blends like fajita or Cajun for a twist on the classic taco flavor.

Expert Secrets:

• Browning the ground beef well before adding the taco seasoning enhances the flavor of the meat.
• Letting the taco sticks cool for a few minutes before serving helps the cheese set and prevents burns.
• Brushing the top of the taco sticks with melted butter and sprinkling with additional cheese before baking creates a golden, cheesy crust.
• Adding a dollop of refried beans to the taco meat before rolling up the sticks adds creaminess and flavor.