Baked Cheesy Taco Sticks
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 (13.8-ounce) can Pillsbury Refrigerated Pizza Crust
- 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
- 1 packet taco seasoning mix
- Butter for brushing (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh chopped cilantro
Directions
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
- Cook the Beef: In a skillet over medium heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Drain excess grease, then add the taco seasoning, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Prepare the Dough: Roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough on a clean surface to form a large rectangle. Cut the dough into even rectangles.
- Assemble the Sticks: Sprinkle shredded cheese onto each dough rectangle. Add a spoonful of the seasoned beef on top of the cheese.
- Fold and Seal: Fold the dough over the filling to form sticks. Press the edges to seal.
- Arrange and Season: Place the sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Brush each stick with melted butter if desired, and sprinkle lightly with salt. Optionally, add more cheese on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 10-12 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Allow the sticks to cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro if desired.
Variations & Tips
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes for a vegetarian alternative.
- Cheese Alternatives: Experiment with different cheeses like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda to add unique flavors.
- Mini Taco Sticks: Create mini taco sticks by cutting the dough into smaller triangles, perfect for children or as bite-sized appetizers.
- Personal Touch: Feel free to customize the recipe with ingredients and stories from your own family’s culinary traditions. Cooking is a living legacy passed down through generations.