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Cheesy Taco Breadsticks Delight packs the irresistible flavors of classic tacos into warm golden breadsticks oozing with melty cheese. I whipped these up for a family movie night once and now they are our most-requested party snack because everyone gets excited to pull these apart and see the cheese stretch.
When I first made this I thought there would be leftovers but every single breadstick vanished before I got seconds. My sister even messaged me for the recipe within the hour.
Ingredients
- Ground beef: brings rich flavor and protein look for 80 percent lean for the best texture
- Taco seasoning: gives you that signature zesty taco taste use a good quality packet or a homemade blend if you have extra spices
- Pillsbury pizza dough: saves time and bakes up fluffy and golden in minutes refrigerated dough is easiest to handle cold
- Colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks: melt perfectly with a creamy tang slice in half so each stick fits inside the dough
- Butter: keeps the breadsticks soft and golden use real unsalted butter for cleanest flavor
- Garlic powder: infuses the topping with classic savory aroma choose a fresh fragrant jar for the most punch
- Dried parsley: adds a hint of color and freshness
- Freshly packaged cheese sticks: use and avoid any that feel rubbery or dried at the ends
- Pizza dough: choose dough that is chill and check the expiration date for best rise
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan:
- Heat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lightly spray a large baking sheet with non stick spray to prevent any sticking
- Brown the Beef:
- Add ground beef to a skillet over medium heat break up the meat thoroughly and cook until no pink remains draining any fat for a clean taste
- Season the Meat:
- Return the beef to the stove sprinkle in taco seasoning and stir until every crumble is coated letting it cool to room temperature so the cheese will not melt too soon
- Shape the Dough:
- Roll out the pizza dough on a clean surface use a sharp knife to cut the rectangle in half lengthwise then divide each strip into five so you end up with ten rectangles
- Fill and Roll:
- Spoon about one tablespoon of cooled taco meat in the center of each dough piece place half a cheese stick on top then gently roll up each piece pinching every seam to seal the filling inside
- Mix the Topping:
- Stir together melted butter garlic powder and parsley brush the top of each breadstick with this mixture for a rich fragrant crust
- Bake:
- Arrange the breadsticks seam side down and bake for about ten to twelve minutes until puffed and golden brown
- Serve:
- Let the breadsticks cool for one or two minutes before serving hot with your favorite taco dips and toppings
Taco seasoning is my favorite shortcut in this recipe because it instantly brings all the right smoky spices. The first time my nephew helped me roll the dough he snuck some cheese from the tray and declared these his new favorite food.
Storage Tips
Cool leftovers completely before storing in an airtight container they keep in the fridge for three days. To reheat bake in a 350 degree oven until hot. You can also freeze the unbaked stuffed breadsticks on a sheet tray then once solid move to a freezer bag. Bake straight from frozen just add a few extra minutes.
Ingredient Substitutions
Feel free to swap the ground beef with ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer extra heat try adding diced jalapenos to the meat or use pepper jack cheese sticks. You can also use homemade pizza dough if you have time and like a chewier breadstick.
Serving Suggestions
These breadsticks are delicious with bowls of salsa guacamole or a creamy cilantro lime sauce. Serve alongside a green salad or corn on the cob for a festive meal. For a party platter arrange with sliced avocado and fresh cherry tomatoes.
Cultural and Seasonal Touch
Breadsticks stuffed with cheese are a crowd pleaser in many countries but this taco version brings fun Tex Mex flair. Around Cinco de Mayo I always double the batch because neighbors and friends tend to wander over just for a taste. In summer try swapping out the beef for spicy grilled chicken.
Seasonal Adaptations
Fresh garden salsa and pico de gallo are wonderful dips in summer. Try a blend of sharp cheddar and pepper jack for cool fall weather. For winter occasions brush with extra butter as soon as you pull them from the oven for extra richness.
Success Stories
Several friends have shared these breadsticks at their Super Bowl parties and always come back for more. One family texted me a photo of empty plates just minutes after serving and now they bring them to every potluck.
Freezer Meal Conversion
To make ahead assemble the breadsticks and freeze on a tray. Once firm pack into a resealable bag. When ready to bake there is no need to thaw just place on a greased sheet bake at 425 degrees until hot and golden adding about five minutes to the baking time. This batch freezes beautifully.
Once you try these party breadsticks they will become a new favorite—easy fun and so cheesy with every bite. Do not be surprised if everyone asks for the recipe.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of cheese works best?
Colby jack and cheddar cheese sticks provide a creamy, melty texture, but mozzarella or Monterey jack are great alternatives.
- → Can I use homemade taco seasoning?
Absolutely! Homemade taco seasoning offers customizable flavor and lets you control spice levels easily.
- → How do I keep breadsticks from unraveling?
Pinch the dough seams tightly after rolling and place them seam-side down on the baking sheet to hold shape.
- → What dipping sauces pair well?
Sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or warm queso dip are perfect choices for serving alongside these breadsticks.
- → Can I prepare these ahead of time?
You can assemble the breadsticks in advance and refrigerate them until ready to bake for fresh results.
- → Is it possible to use different meats?
Yes, ground turkey or chicken can be substituted, just cook thoroughly and season as desired.