As the golden hues of the evening sun grace the cornfields, there comes an inspiration to bring a bit of joy to the dinner table. It’s a reminder of how we love to weave together the comforts of home with the zest of something new. Baked Cheesy Taco Sticks, a playful twist on traditional Midwestern fare, find their charm in simplicity. Melding the heartiness of ground beef with the melting goodness of cheese, and then wrapping it in a tender embrace of Pillsbury Pizza Dough, these delectable sticks are a testament to the innovative spirit that’s been gracing American kitchens for generations. It’s a dish for those who cherish the nostalgia of taco night but are looking for a tidy, finger-food rendition that brings smiles all around the supper table.
Pair these Baked Cheesy Taco Sticks with a side of cool, creamy guacamole, a zestful salsa, or a dollop of sour cream. For a refreshing crunch, serve with a crisp garden salad or a helping of freshly sliced bell peppers and cucumbers. Complete the meal with Southern sweet tea or a frosty mug of root beer for that delightful down-home dining experience.

Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 (13.8-ounce) can Pillsbury Refrigerated Pizza Crust
– 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese
– 1 packet taco seasoning mix
– Butter for brushing (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional garnish: fresh chopped cilantro

Directions
1. Begin by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy clean-up.
2. In a well-seasoned skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it apart with a trusty wooden spoon. Drain the excess grease and stir in the taco seasoning, cooking it for a minute or two to let those flavors embrace.
3. Roll out the Pillsbury Pizza Dough on a clean surface, stretching it to form a large rectangle. With memories of quilting bees in mind, cut the dough into even rectangles.
4. Sprinkle a generous portion of shredded cheese onto each square, reserving a pinch to remind us that a bit of restraint is the secret to balance. Add a spoonful of the seasoned beef atop the cheese.
5. Once each square is filled with that delightful mixture, fold over the dough to form a neat little stick.
6. Arrange the sticks on the prepared baking sheet, offering them space like porch rockers on a summer evening. If you fancy it, brush each with a touch of butter and give them a light scattering of salt. You can also put more cheese on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven until the dough turns a beautiful golden-brown, reminiscent of autumn wheat fields—around 10 to 12 minutes.
8. Let the sticks rest for a spell before serving, then, if you like, sprinkle with fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.Variations & Tips
– Vegetarian Variation: Replace the ground beef with a mix of black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes, for a hearty vegetable alternative that still speaks to the soul.
– Cheese Twist: Feel free to explore with cheese – a sharp cheddar or a smoke-kissed gouda can add a new story to the dish.
– For little ones or those with a lighter appetite, create mini taco sticks by cutting the dough into smaller triangles. It’s a charming bite-sized treat that’s easy to handle.
– And finally, don’t be afraid to imbue your own family’s tale into this recipe. Cooking, after all, is a living legacy we gift to the ones we hold dear.