Craving a fun, savory appetizer or snack? Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are a Taco-Flavored Snack that combines seasoned taco meat, gooey cheese, and flaky dough into a crowd-pleasing treat. Perfect for game nights, parties, or a quick dinner, these easy-to-make breadsticks are kid-friendly and customizable. Ready in under 30 minutes, Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are your go-to for a delicious, shareable dish that everyone will love!
Ingredients for Cheesy Taco Breadsticks
Here’s what you’ll need for Cheesy Taco Breadsticks (makes 12 breadsticks):
For the Breadsticks:
- 1 can (8 oz/227g) refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
- 1 packet (1 oz/28g) taco seasoning (or 2 tbsp homemade taco seasoning)
- ½ cup (120ml) salsa (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 ½ cups (150g) shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for greasing and brushing)
For Serving:
- ½ cup (120g) sour cream (optional, for dipping)
- 2 tbsp chopped green onions (optional, for garnish)
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or cooking spray
- Rolling pin (optional)
- Knife or pizza cutter
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Pastry brush
Ingredient Tips
- Dough: Pizza dough yields a chewy texture for this Taco-Flavored Snack; crescent roll dough offers a flakier bite.
- Meat: Ground turkey or chicken works for a lighter option; drain fat for a cleaner flavor.
- Cheese: Cheddar melts smoothly; try a Mexican blend or pepper jack for extra kick in Cheesy Taco Breadsticks.
- Salsa: Adds moisture; choose mild or spicy based on preference.
- Seasoning: Homemade taco seasoning (chili powder, cumin, garlic powder) allows flavor control.
Directions for Cheesy Taco Breadsticks
Let’s make these Cheesy Taco Breadsticks—a delightful Taco-Flavored Snack!
Cook the Taco Meat
I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease with olive oil. In a large skillet over medium heat, I cook 1 lb ground beef until browned, about 5–7 minutes, draining excess fat. I stir in 1 packet taco seasoning and ½ cup salsa (if using), simmering for 3–5 minutes until flavorful. I set aside to cool slightly for this Taco-Flavored Snack.
Prepare the Dough
On a floured surface, I roll out 1 can pizza dough into a 12×8-inch rectangle (or unroll crescent dough, pinching seams). If using crescent dough, I keep it as a single sheet for Cheesy Taco Breadsticks.
Assemble the Breadsticks
I spread the taco meat evenly over the dough, leaving a 1-inch border. I sprinkle 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese over the meat. Starting from a long edge, I roll the dough tightly into a log, sealing the edges to prevent leaks.
Slice and Bake
Using a knife or pizza cutter, I slice the log into 12 equal pieces (about 1-inch thick) and place them cut-side up on the baking sheet. I brush the tops with 1 tbsp olive oil for a golden finish. I bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted.
Serve
I let Cheesy Taco Breadsticks cool for 5 minutes, then garnish with 2 tbsp green onions and serve with ½ cup sour cream for dipping.
Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 12 breadsticks (3 per person as an appetizer)
- Calories: ~220 kcal per breadstick
- Macros per Breadstick: 15g carbs, 10g protein, 13g fat, 1g fiber
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 tbsp diced jalapeños or ¼ tsp red pepper flakes to the meat for a fiery Taco-Flavored Snack.
- Vegetarian: Swap beef for black beans or sautéed mushrooms, seasoned with taco spices, for a meatless version.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a celiac-friendly Taco-Flavored Snack.
- Dairy-Free: Replace cheese with dairy-free alternatives or nutritional yeast for a cheesy vibe without dairy.
- Breakfast Twist: Add scrambled eggs to the filling for a brunch-inspired Cheesy Taco Breadsticks, inspired by Layla Cooks’ creative recipes.
Serving Ideas:
- Pair with Layla Cooks’ cucumber blueberry feta salad for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with Layla Cooks’ guacamole or salsa for extra dipping options.
- Offer with Layla Cooks’ Lace Cookies with Chocolate for a sweet finish.
Storage
I store Cheesy Taco Breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep them fresh. For freezing, I cool completely, wrap individually in plastic wrap, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. I reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–10 minutes (fridge) or 10–12 minutes (frozen) to restore crispiness.
Serving Tips
- Presentation: Arrange Cheesy Taco Breadsticks on a platter with dipping bowls of sour cream, salsa, or guacamole for a vibrant Taco-Flavored Snack.
- Garnish: Sprinkle extra green onions or cilantro for a fresh, colorful touch.
- Pairing: Enjoy with a cold beer, sparkling water, or Layla Cooks’ iced herbal tea for a refreshing meal.
- Portion Size: 2–3 breadsticks per person as an appetizer; 4–5 for a light meal with sides.
- Occasions: Perfect for game nights, parties, or casual family dinners.
FAQs
Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?
Yes, assemble Cheesy Taco Breadsticks up to a day ahead, refrigerate, and bake just before serving for freshness.
Can I use a different dough for this recipe?
Absolutely, crescent roll dough, puff pastry, or homemade pizza dough work great for this Taco-Flavored Snack.
How do I make these breadsticks vegetarian?
Swap beef for black beans, mushrooms, or cauliflower rice, seasoned with taco spices, for a vegetarian Cheesy Taco Breadsticks.
Can I freeze these breadsticks?
Yes, freeze cooled Cheesy Taco Breadsticks for up to 3 months; reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–12 minutes.
How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Seal the dough edges tightly and avoid overfilling to keep the filling intact for Cheesy Taco Breadsticks.
More Delicious Appetizer Recipes You’ll Love
- Crispy Parmesan Asparagus Sticks
- Air Fryer Eggplant Asian Style
- Smoked Mexican Street Corn Dip
- Leftover Mashed Potato Cheese Puffs
Conclusion
Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are a fun, flavorful treat that’s perfect for any occasion, from game nights to cozy dinners. Easy to make and endlessly customizable, this Taco-Flavored Snack delivers cheesy, savory goodness in every bite. Whip up Cheesy Taco Breadsticks, share with friends and family, and enjoy the irresistible taco-inspired flavors!
Cheesy Taco Breadsticks
Ingredients
- 1 can 8 oz refrigerated pizza dough (or crescent roll dough)
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey for a leaner option
- 1 packet taco seasoning or homemade taco seasoning
- 1/2 cup salsa optional, for added flavor
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican cheese blend
- 1/2 cup sour cream for serving, optional
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for greasing and brushing the dough
- Chopped green onions optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Taco Meat Filling: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking sheet. Cook ground beef over medium heat until browned, then add taco seasoning and salsa. Simmer for 3-5 minutes. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pizza Dough: Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface. If using crescent dough, unroll and pinch the seams together.
- Assemble the Breadsticks: Spread the taco meat mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle cheese over the meat.
- Roll and Slice: Roll the dough into a tight log and slice into 1-inch pieces. Arrange them on a baking sheet, brushing with olive oil for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
- Serve: Let the breadsticks cool slightly, then serve with sour cream and garnish with green onions.
Notes
- Spicy option: Add jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce to the taco meat for a spicier kick.
- Vegetarian option: Swap the ground beef with black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Gluten-free version: Use gluten-free pizza dough or crescent roll dough for a gluten-free option.
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