These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun and delicious twist on classic taco flavors, wrapped in golden, buttery pizza dough. Filled with melty cheese and seasoned ground beef, they’re perfect for game day snacks, parties, or even a creative weeknight dinner. Serve them with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping!

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Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 packet taco seasoning mix (or homemade blend: 1 tbsp chili powder, 1 tsp cumin, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/4 tsp paprika, 1/4 tsp oregano, salt, and pepper)
• 1 tube Pillsbury Pizza Dough (or similar refrigerated pizza dough)
• 5 Colby Jack and cheddar cheese sticks, halved (10 halves total)
• 4 tablespoons butter, melted
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for serving

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

1. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned and crumbled, about 6–8 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
2. Stir in the taco seasoning mix according to package instructions (or add your homemade blend), along with 1/4 cup water. Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Taco Sticks

1. Unroll the pizza dough onto a clean surface. Cut the dough into 10 equal rectangles (about 2 inches wide each).
2. Place a halved cheese stick at one end of each rectangle and top with a spoonful of the seasoned ground beef. Be careful not to overfill.
3. Roll the dough tightly around the filling, sealing the edges by pinching them together. Place the rolls seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.

Step 4: Brush with Butter

1. Brush the tops of the assembled taco sticks generously with melted butter. This will give them a golden, crispy exterior.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the dough is puffed and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Let the taco sticks cool for 2–3 minutes before serving. Arrange them on a platter and garnish with optional toppings like shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or a drizzle of sour cream and salsa.
2. Serve warm with additional dipping sauces like guacamole, queso, or ranch dressing.

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Tips for Success

• Cheese Options: Swap Colby Jack and cheddar cheese sticks for mozzarella, pepper jack, or Mexican blend cheese for different flavor profiles.
• Prevent Leaking: Ensure the edges of the dough are sealed tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking. Use a little water to help seal if needed.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the taco sticks ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 4 hours before baking. Add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time if starting cold.
• Freeze for Later: Freeze unbaked taco sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding 5–7 minutes to the cooking time.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cheesy Taco Sticks combine all the best parts of tacos—savory seasoned beef and gooey melted cheese—wrapped in a buttery, crispy dough. They’re easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always a hit at gatherings or family meals. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving something indulgent, these taco sticks are sure to satisfy. Dive into this cheesy, handheld delight and enjoy every bite!