Cheesy taco sticks are a fun and tasty treat made with tortillas, melty cheese, and flavorful taco filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing!
These cheesy bites make any snack time a party! I love dipping them in salsa or guacamole; it’s hard to stop at just one. Who can resist cheesy goodness? 😋
They’re quick to whip up, so I often make them for movie nights. Just roll, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for when I’m craving something cheesy and delicious.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: This is the main protein. You can use turkey or chicken if you prefer a leaner option. Vegetarian crumbles are a great substitute for a meatless version!
Taco Seasoning: You can make your own with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and a pinch of salt if you don’t have a packet handy. I like to adjust the spices based on my family’s taste.
Cheese: Cheddar is classic. You could mix it up by using Monterey Jack or pepper jack for extra flavor. If you’re going dairy-free, try a plant-based cheese blend!
Crescent Roll Dough: If you don’t have crescent roll dough, puff pastry works well. Just make sure to cut it into triangles before filling.
Egg Wash: This gives the taco sticks a nice golden color. If you’re vegan, a mixture of almond milk and cornstarch can be a good substitute.
How Do I Properly Roll the Crescent Dough for Tasty Taco Sticks?
Rolling the dough correctly is key to holding in all that cheesy taco goodness. Start with your triangle of dough flat on the surface. Place the taco mixture at the wide end, and then roll it carefully toward the narrow end.
- Make sure to roll it tightly to avoid any filling leaking out during cooking.
- Press the edges down to seal them well. A fork can help make a decorative seal.
Taking a moment to ensure a tight seal will result in better-looking and tastier taco sticks!
How to Make Cheesy Taco Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded Mexican cheese blend
For the Dough:
- 1 package refrigerated crescent roll dough
- 1 egg (for egg wash)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
For Serving:
- Salsa (for dipping)
- Sour cream (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15-18 minutes to bake. So, in total, you’ll be ready to enjoy these delicious cheesy taco sticks in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important to ensure your taco sticks bake evenly and get that golden color!
2. Cook the Ground Beef:
Take a large skillet and place it over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook it until it’s nicely browned. Be sure to drain any excess fat afterward for a leaner filling.
3. Season the Meat:
Now, sprinkle in the taco seasoning mix and add the water. Stir everything together and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the mixture thickens a bit. After that, remove it from the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar and Mexican cheese blend until everything is well combined.
4. Prepare the Crescent Roll Dough:
Take your crescent roll dough out and unroll it on a clean surface. Gently separate it into triangles. You’ll be using these to wrap around your taco filling!
5. Assemble the Taco Sticks:
At the wide end of each triangle, place a generous tablespoon of the taco meat mixture. Roll the dough from the wide end to the narrow end, pinching the edges to seal in that yummy filling.
6. Bake the Taco Sticks:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and place your rolled taco sticks on it. In a small bowl, beat the egg and brush it over the tops of the taco sticks to give them a beautiful golden finish. You can sprinkle a bit of garlic powder and onion powder on top for extra flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Pop the baking sheet into your preheated oven and bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the taco sticks are golden brown and crispy. Once they’re ready, take them out and let them cool slightly. Serve warm with salsa and sour cream for dipping, and enjoy your cheesy taco sticks!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to cook it until it’s fully browned and follow the same seasoning and water instructions as with the beef to keep the flavor intact.
What If I Don’t Have Crescent Roll Dough?
If you don’t have crescent roll dough, you can use puff pastry instead! Just roll it out and cut it into triangles. Bake according to package instructions, adjusting the time as necessary to achieve a golden brown finish.
How to Store Leftover Cheesy Taco Sticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-12 minutes until they’re heated through and crispy again!
Can I Make These Taco Sticks Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with a mixture of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions. Add taco seasoning to taste for that classic flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if needed!
