Cheesy Taco Breadsticks

Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are a delightful and easy-to-make snack or appetizer that brings together the flavors of tacos in a fun, handheld format. Stuffed with seasoned ground beef and gooey cheese, these breadsticks are perfect for dipping in salsa or guacamole.

Ingredients

• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 lb ground beef
• 2 tablespoons taco seasoning
• 1 lb pizza dough, rolled out into a rectangle
• 1 cup Mexican cheese blend
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salsa, for dipping
• Guacamole, for dipping

Directions

1. Sauté Aromatics:

• In a skillet, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic over medium heat until they become soft and translucent.

1. Cook Beef:

• Add the ground beef to the skillet, stir in the taco seasoning, and cook until the beef is fully browned and no longer pink. Remove from heat and set aside to cool slightly.

1. Preheat Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).

1. Prepare Dough:

• On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough into a rectangle and cut it into 5 even strips.

1. Assemble Breadsticks:

• Spoon the cooked beef mixture down the center of each dough strip, then sprinkle generously with the Mexican cheese blend. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching along the seams to seal, and ensure the ends are closed.

1. Brush & Bake:

• Brush the tops of the sealed breadsticks with olive oil and place them on a prepared baking sheet. Bake for 10 minutes, then remove and top with additional cheese. Return to the oven and bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.

1. Serve:

• Enjoy the breadsticks warm with salsa and guacamole for dipping!

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 5 breadsticks. The preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 15 minutes. The total time is around 30 minutes.

Variations

• Add Veggies: Incorporate diced bell peppers or jalapeños into the beef mixture for extra flavor and texture.
• Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheese blends, such as cheddar or pepper jack, for a unique twist.
• Spicy Version: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the beef mixture for some heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
   Yes, ground turkey works well and is a leaner option.
2. What can I serve with these breadsticks?
   They pair perfectly with salsa, guacamole, or even sour cream.
3. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the fridge.
4. How do I know when the breadsticks are done?
   They should be golden brown and the cheese melted.
5. Can I freeze the breadsticks?
   Yes, freeze them before baking, and just bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
6. What if I don’t have pizza dough?
   You can use crescent roll dough or puff pastry as alternatives.
7. Can I add more cheese?
   Absolutely! Feel free to customize the amount of cheese to your liking.
8. Are these breadsticks kid-friendly?
   Yes, kids love them, and they can be a fun addition to family meals.
9. Can I use a different type of meat?
   Yes, shredded chicken or even vegetarian options like black beans can be used.
10. How can I make these healthier?
    Use whole wheat pizza dough and lean meat, and add more vegetables to the filling.

Conclusion

Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are a fun and delicious way to enjoy the classic flavors of tacos in a new form. Perfect for parties, game days, or family dinners, these breadsticks are sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the savory filling and melty cheese with your favorite dipping sauces!

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