I love making these Cheesy Taco Sticks because they bring all my favorite taco flavors into a fun, handheld dinner. I often turn to this recipe when I want something comforting, cheesy, and satisfying without sitting down to a traditional taco plate. They feel casual, cozy, and perfect for sharing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it is packed with flavor, incredibly cheesy, and easy to customize. I like how the seasoned beef pairs with melted cheese and a soft, golden crust. These taco sticks work just as well for a family dinner as they do for game nights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade equivalent)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Directions
I start by heating a skillet over medium heat and cooking the ground beef until browned. I drain any excess grease, then add the diced onion and minced garlic. I cook everything together until the onion softens.
I stir in the garlic powder, paprika, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. I let the mixture simmer for a few minutes so the flavors blend well, then remove it from the heat.
I roll out the pizza or crescent dough on a lightly floured surface and cut it into long rectangles. I spoon some of the beef mixture onto each piece of dough, then sprinkle both cheddar and mozzarella on top.
I carefully roll the dough around the filling, sealing the edges. I place the sticks seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
I bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 12–15 minutes, until the dough is golden brown and the cheese is melted. I let them cool slightly before serving.
Servings And Timing
I usually get about 6 servings from this recipe, depending on how large I cut the taco sticks.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: about 30 minutes
Variations
I sometimes swap the ground beef for ground chicken or turkey when I want a lighter option. I also like adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili powder for extra heat. When I want a Tex-Mex twist, I mix in black beans or corn with the beef filling.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover taco sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I prefer using the oven or air fryer to keep the dough crispy. I heat them at 350°F (175°C) for about 8–10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
I sometimes prepare the filling in advance and store it in the fridge. When I am ready, I assemble and bake the taco sticks fresh.
Can I freeze Cheesy Taco Sticks?
I like freezing them after baking and cooling. I reheat them straight from frozen in the oven until warmed through.
What dipping sauces go well with these?
I enjoy serving them with salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or a simple cheese dip.
Can I use tortillas instead of dough?
I have tried tortillas, but they do not seal as well. Dough works best for holding the filling and cheese inside.
How do I keep them from leaking?
I make sure not to overfill the dough and always seal the edges tightly before baking.
Conclusion
I keep coming back to these Cheesy Taco Sticks because they are fun, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. Whenever I want an easy dinner that feels special and satisfying, this recipe is one I am always happy to make again.
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a handheld dinner option filled with seasoned ground beef, melted cheddar and mozzarella, and wrapped in soft golden dough. They’re perfect for a fun twist on taco night or a cozy, shareable meal.
Total Time:30 minutes
Yield:6 servings
Ingredients
1 lb ground beef
1 small onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade equivalent)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can refrigerated pizza dough or crescent roll dough
Salt, to taste
Pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Drain excess grease.
Add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is softened.
Stir in garlic powder, paprika, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer briefly, then remove from heat.
Roll out dough on a floured surface and cut into long rectangles.
Spoon beef mixture onto each dough piece and sprinkle with both cheeses.
Roll the dough around the filling, sealing edges well. Place seam-side down on the baking sheet.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Let cool slightly and garnish with parsley or green onions if desired before serving.
Notes
Don’t overfill the dough to avoid leaks during baking.
For extra spice, add jalapeños or chili powder to the beef mixture.
Ground turkey or chicken can be used as lighter alternatives to beef.
Great served with salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for dipping.
