Description

Crunchy, cheesy, and bursting with bold taco flavors, these Cheesy Taco Sticks are an easy-to-make snack perfect for game nights, movie marathons, or casual get-togethers. Featuring a crispy breadstick exterior and a gooey, seasoned cheese filling, they come together in under 30 minutes and can be customized to suit dietary preferences including gluten-free and vegan options.

Ingredients

Base Dough

Pizza dough or breadstick dough – enough to roll out about 1/4 inch thick

Cheese & Seasoning

Shredded cheddar cheese – generous layer to cover the dough (about 1 to 1 1/2 cups)
Taco seasoning – to sprinkle evenly over the cheese (1 to 2 tablespoons)

Topping & Flavor Enhancers

Butter – melted, for brushing tops (about 2 tablespoons)
Garlic powder – mixed with butter for brushing (1/2 teaspoon)
Fresh cilantro (optional) – finely chopped for garnish after baking (2 tablespoons)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough: Roll out your pizza or breadstick dough on a lightly floured surface until it is approximately a quarter-inch thick to ensure a crispy texture when baked.
Add the Cheese and Seasoning: Evenly sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheddar cheese over the dough, then dust it thoroughly with taco seasoning for that bold, savory taco flavor.
Roll and Slice: Carefully roll the dough into a tight log shape. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the rolled dough into evenly sized sticks about one inch wide for ideal snacking portions.
Brush with Butter and Garlic: Combine melted butter and garlic powder, then brush this mixture generously over the tops of the sticks to help them brown beautifully and add a savory depth.
Bake Until Golden and Melty: Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15 to 18 minutes or until they are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Even slicing: Use a ruler or guide to ensure sticks are sliced evenly, promoting uniform baking.
Choose the right cheese: Using a cheese blend can enhance flavor and meltability.
Don’t overfill: Excess cheese may cause sticks to burst or leak while baking.
Use cold dough: Chilling dough before rolling helps keep the shape intact.
Watch the oven: Check sticks a few minutes before baking ends to avoid burning.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15-18 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican-inspired

Nutrition

Serving Size: 2 sticks
Calories: 180 kcal
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 300 mg
Fat: 12 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 14 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 25 mg

Keywords: cheesy taco sticks, baked snack, taco seasoning, breadsticks, easy appetizers, party snacks, gluten-free snack, cheesy breadsticks