Cheesy Taco Breadsticks Recipe

Short Description:
Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are the perfect fusion of two favorites: tacos and breadsticks. With a savory filling of seasoned ground beef and melted Mexican cheese blend, all wrapped in soft pizza dough, these breadsticks are a delicious, dippable treat that’s perfect for game days, parties, or a fun family dinner.

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. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they become soft and translucent.
3. 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 the skillet from heat and set aside to cool slightly.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the pizza dough and cut it into 5 even strips.
5. Spoon the cooked beef mixture down the center of each strip of dough, followed by a generous sprinkle of the Mexican cheese blend.
6. Fold the edges of the dough over the filling, pinching along the seams to seal the meat and cheese inside, and ensuring the ends are closed.
7. Brush the tops of the sealed breadsticks with olive oil and place them on a prepared baking sheet.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove the breadsticks, top them with additional cheese, and return them to the oven. Bake for another 5 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted and golden.
9. Serve the breadsticks warm with salsa and guacamole for dipping.

Servings and Timing:

• Servings: 5
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations:

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with seasoned black beans or a meatless ground beef alternative.
• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños to the beef mixture or use a spicy taco seasoning for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Upgrade: Mix cream cheese with the Mexican cheese blend for an extra creamy filling.
• Different Dips: Try serving with sour cream, queso, or a zesty ranch dip instead of salsa and guacamole.

Storage/Reheating:

• Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, microwave for 1-2 minutes, though the breadsticks may lose some crispiness.

FAQs:

1. Can I use pre-made pizza dough?
Yes, pre-made pizza dough is a convenient option and works well in this recipe.

2. Can I freeze the breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking. Wrap each breadstick individually and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.

3. What other toppings can I add?
You can add diced tomatoes, green onions, or black olives inside the breadsticks for extra flavor.

4. Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as substitutes for ground beef.

5. How can I make the breadsticks crispier?
For extra crispiness, bake the breadsticks on a pizza stone or directly on the oven rack for the last few minutes.

6. Can I make the filling ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling the breadsticks.

7. Are there gluten-free options?
You can use gluten-free pizza dough and taco seasoning to make this recipe gluten-free.

8. How do I prevent the filling from leaking?
Ensure the dough edges are well-sealed and pinched tightly. Avoid overfilling the breadsticks.

9. Can I use homemade pizza dough?
Yes, homemade pizza dough adds a personal touch and works beautifully with this recipe.

10. What can I serve alongside these breadsticks?
These breadsticks pair well with a fresh salad, corn on the cob, or a side of rice and beans for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Cheesy Taco Breadsticks are a fun and flavorful twist on classic breadsticks, bringing the bold flavors of tacos into a convenient, dippable form. Perfect for any occasion, these breadsticks are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, snack, or main course, they’re bound to disappear quickly!

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