Cheesy Taco Sticks
Cheesy Taco Sticks are an irresistible snack combining taco-seasoned ground beef or turkey with melty cheese wrapped in a crisp tortilla or puff pastry. Perfect for game day, parties, or anytime you crave a bold, satisfying finger food bursting with Mexican-inspired flavors and gooey cheese.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings (about 12 sticks) 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free
Filling Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp taco seasoning mix (cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, paprika blend)
- 1/4 cup diced bell peppers (optional)
- 1/4 cup diced jalapeños (optional)
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
Cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Wrapping & Finishing
- 6 large flour tortillas or equivalent puff pastry sheets
- Olive oil or melted butter for brushing
- Water or egg wash for sealing edges
Optional Garnishes & Serving
- Fresh cilantro or parsley
- Lime wedges
- Salsa, sour cream, or guacamole
- Prepare the Filling: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the ground beef or turkey with diced onions and minced garlic until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in taco seasoning mix, then add optional diced bell peppers or jalapeños. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to fully absorb the spices.
- Assemble the Sticks: Lay tortillas or puff pastry sheets on a flat surface. Spread an even layer of the cooked taco filling down the center of each. Sprinkle generously with shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese. Carefully roll or fold the dough around the filling, sealing edges with a little water or egg wash to keep the cheese enclosed during baking.
- Cut and Brush: Slice the rolled dough into uniform stick-sized portions. Place sticks spaced apart on a lined baking sheet. Brush each stick lightly with olive oil or melted butter to ensure a golden, crispy crust after baking.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake sticks for 15 to 20 minutes, or until browned, puffed, and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to avoid overcooking and maintain crispness.
- Garnish and Serve: Let sticks cool slightly before topping with fresh cilantro or parsley and optional lime juice. Serve warm with dollops of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for an enhanced flavor experience.
Notes
- Use high-quality cheese blends for best melt and flavor.
- Do not overfill to prevent sticks from bursting open while baking.
- Seal edges firmly with water or egg wash to avoid leaks.
- Substitute puff pastry for a buttery, flaky crust.
- Serve immediately warm for perfect cheese stretch and crispy exterior.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 sticks
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: Cheesy Taco Sticks, taco snack, cheesy appetizers, game day food, easy finger food, taco recipe, melt cheese snack