These Cheesy Taco Sticks are a fun twist on your favorite taco flavors! With gooey cheese and seasoned beef wrapped in crispy dough, they make a perfect snack or easy dinner.
Whenever I make these, I can’t help but pop a few right from the oven—who can resist that cheesy goodness? They’re great for sharing, but let’s be real, I don’t always share! 😄
I love serving them with salsa or guacamole on the side for extra zing. They’re super easy to make and always a hit at my house! Just roll, bake, and enjoy the cheesy taco magic!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground beef: This is the star of the show! Ground turkey or chicken can be great alternatives if you’re looking for a leaner option. I find that using a mix of meats adds a nice flavor depth.
Taco seasoning: You can use homemade seasoning if you prefer! Mix chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt for a tasty blend. This customization allows you to adjust the spice level to your liking.
Cheddar and mozzarella cheese: These cheeses are classic for a cheesy pull. You can swap in pepper jack for a kick, or even use dairy-free shredded cheese for a vegan option. I love adding some extra cheese on top before baking!
Crescent roll dough: If you can’t find crescent rolls, pizza dough or puff pastry would work well. They’ll give a nice flaky texture, too! Just remember to adjust baking time if you switch to a different dough.
How Do I Roll Up the Crescent Dough Properly?
Rolling the crescent dough can seem tricky, but it’s really simple! Here are some tips to make it easier:
- Start with an even layer of filling on each triangle, but don’t overfill—this makes rolling difficult!
- Roll tightly from the wider end to the tip, ensuring you seal the edges well by pinching them closed.
- Place the rolled sticks seam-side down on the baking sheet to help keep them closed while baking.
Practice makes perfect! Just go slowly, and soon you’ll be a pro at rolling these delicious snacks.
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
For The Dough:
- 1 can (8 oz) crescent roll dough
For Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
Optional Toppings:
- Sour cream
- Salsa
- Chopped green onions
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake, for a total of around 25-30 minutes. You’ll get a delicious snack or meal on the table in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This will ensure it’s hot and ready when you put in your taco sticks.
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
In a skillet over medium heat, add the ground beef and cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once it’s cooked, drain off any excess fat to keep it from being greasy.
3. Add Seasoning:
Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef. Add a splash of water and stir everything until well combined. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until it thickens a bit. Then, take it off the heat.
4. Prepare the Dough:
Unroll the crescent roll dough on a clean surface and separate it into triangles. You should have 8 triangles ready for filling.
5. Fill the Triangles:
On each triangle, place a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture, then add a mix of cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top. Don’t be shy—make sure there’s enough filling!
6. Roll Them Up:
Starting at the wide end, roll each triangle tightly up towards the tip. Pinch the edges to seal the filling inside so it doesn’t spill out while baking.
7. Prepare for Baking:
Place your taco sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Brush the tops with olive oil to help them brown while baking. Sprinkle a little garlic powder and onion powder on top for extra flavor.
8. Bake:
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and looking delicious.
9. Cool and Serve:
Once they’re out of the oven, let them cool for a few minutes so you don’t burn your mouth! Serve your cheesy taco sticks warm with optional toppings like sour cream, salsa, or chopped green onions. Enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well with the taco seasoning. Just be sure to cook it thoroughly until it’s no longer pink, and consider adding a bit of extra seasoning since turkey can be milder in flavor than beef.
What Can I Use Instead of Crescent Roll Dough?
If you don’t have crescent roll dough, you can use pizza dough or puff pastry as alternatives. Just roll them out thinly, cut into triangles, and proceed with the recipe as usual. Keep in mind baking times may vary slightly, so watch for golden brown color!
How to Store Leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or use the microwave for a quicker option, though they may lose some crispiness.
Can I Make These Taco Sticks Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the taco filling and assemble the sticks, then store them in the fridge for a few hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if they go in the oven cold. Enjoy them fresh and hot!
