Introduction:
Taco sticks are a delightful fusion of classic tacos and cheesy breadsticks, making them a perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. These savory sticks are filled with seasoned ground beef, gooey Colby Jack cheese, and wrapped in crispy, golden-brown pizza dough. Whether you’re hosting a party, preparing a game-day snack, or simply craving a fun twist on traditional tacos, these taco sticks are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Plus, they are easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes!
Overview of the Recipe:
This taco stick recipe is a quick and simple way to enjoy the flavors of tacos in a fun and portable form. The ground beef is seasoned with taco seasoning and combined with minced garlic for a rich and savory filling. The filling is then wrapped in pizza dough along with half a cheese stick, creating a deliciously melty center. Brushing the dough with a mixture of butter, garlic powder, and parsley adds extra flavor and ensures a beautifully golden finish.
History and Origin:
While traditional tacos have a long and storied history rooted in Mexican cuisine, taco sticks are a more recent innovation. They combine the flavors of tacos with the convenience of finger foods, making them popular in American households, especially for casual gatherings and parties. The concept likely emerged from the trend of creating portable, bite-sized versions of popular dishes, providing an easy and mess-free way to enjoy familiar flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 package taco seasoning (plus water called for on envelope)
- 2 cans Pillsbury Pizza Dough
- 12 Colby Jack cheese sticks
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent the taco sticks from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
- Cook the ground beef:
- Place the lean ground beef in a frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook the beef, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is thoroughly cooked and no pink remains.
- Drain any excess fat from the pan.
- Season the beef:
- Add the minced garlic to the cooked beef and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle the taco seasoning over the beef, along with the amount of water called for on the seasoning packet.
- Stir the mixture well and continue to cook until the water has evaporated, allowing the flavors to meld. Remove the pan from heat.
- Prepare the pizza dough:
- Unroll the Pillsbury Pizza Dough onto a clean surface.
- Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, cut each sheet of dough into 12 equal pieces.
- Assemble the taco sticks:
- Place a spoonful of the seasoned beef mixture onto each piece of dough.
- Add half of a Colby Jack cheese stick on top of the beef.
- Fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal and ensure the cheese does not leak out during baking.
- Place each assembled taco stick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheets.
- Prepare the butter mixture:
- In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the unsalted butter.
- Stir in the garlic powder and dried parsley until well combined.
- Bake the taco sticks:
- Using a pastry brush, generously brush the butter mixture over the top of each taco stick.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-14 minutes or until the dough is golden brown and crispy.
- Serve:
- Allow the taco sticks to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve them warm, optionally with a side of salsa, guacamole, or sour cream for dipping.
Serving:
This recipe yields 12 taco sticks, making it ideal for serving as an appetizer or snack for a small gathering. Each taco stick is approximately 333 calories.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
Taco sticks pair wonderfully with a variety of dipping sauces and side dishes. Consider serving them with:
- Salsa: A fresh and tangy salsa adds a burst of flavor that complements the cheesy, savory taco sticks.
- Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a cool and rich contrast to the warm taco sticks.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can add a tangy and creamy element.
- Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob with a mixture of mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime juice.
- Black Bean Salad: A refreshing salad with black beans, corn, bell peppers, red onion, and a lime-cilantro dressing.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Spicy Taco Sticks: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the ground beef mixture for an extra kick.
- Chicken Taco Sticks: Substitute the ground beef with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter option.
- Vegetarian Taco Sticks: Use a meat substitute or a mixture of black beans, corn, and diced bell peppers in place of the ground beef.
- Breakfast Taco Sticks: Fill the dough with scrambled eggs, cooked breakfast sausage, and cheese for a breakfast twist.
Health Benefits Notes:
- Lean Ground Beef: Provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Colby Jack Cheese: Contains calcium, which is important for bone health.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties and potential to reduce blood pressure.
- Parsley: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and contains antioxidants.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make taco sticks ahead of time? A: Yes, you can assemble the taco sticks in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake. Just brush with the butter mixture and bake as directed.
Q: Can I freeze taco sticks? A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled taco sticks before baking. Place them on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Q: What can I use instead of Pillsbury Pizza Dough? A: You can use homemade pizza dough or any other brand of refrigerated pizza dough.
Q: How can I make this recipe gluten-free? A: Use a gluten-free pizza dough to accommodate dietary restrictions.
Q: Can I use other types of cheese? A: Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese or whatever you have on hand. Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella would all work well.
Conclusion:
Taco sticks are a fun and versatile appetizer that combines the beloved flavors of tacos with the convenience of finger food. Easy to prepare and customizable, they are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive parties. With options for different fillings and variations, you can tailor this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauces and sides for a delicious and satisfying treat that everyone will love. Enjoy making and sharing these scrumptious taco sticks!