Description
Cheesy Taco Sticks are a quick and easy snack bursting with bold taco flavors, melted cheddar cheese, and a delightfully crispy texture. Perfect for parties, movie nights, or a savory bite anytime, these flavorful sticks combine taco seasoning and gooey cheese rolled inside crispy flour tortillas for an addictive treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 Flour Tortillas (8-inch size)
- 2 cups Sharp Cheddar Cheese, freshly shredded
- 2 tablespoons Taco Seasoning (blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder)
- 2 tablespoons Butter or Olive Oil, softened
Optional Add-ins
- 1–2 Jalapeños, finely chopped (optional for spice)
- Fresh Cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Variation Suggestions
- Cooked Ground Beef or Shredded Chicken (add inside before rolling for protein boost)
- Diced Bell Peppers, Onions, or Corn (for veggie version)
- Chipotle Powder or Cayenne (to replace regular chili powder for heat)
- Vegan Cheese (plant-based substitute for dairy-free)
- Fresh Herbs like Oregano and Thyme (mixed with taco seasoning)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Grate the sharp cheddar cheese and mix the taco seasoning with softened butter or olive oil to create a flavorful spread. Finely chop jalapeños if using and set all ingredients aside.
- Spread and Sprinkle: Lay each flour tortilla flat and spread a thin, even layer of the seasoned butter or oil all over. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheddar cheese evenly on top, then add a pinch of extra taco seasoning or jalapeños if desired.
- Roll and Slice: Roll each tortilla tightly into a log and cut into approximately 1-inch slices to form individual cheesy taco sticks, each packed with flavor.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the slices standing upright on a lined baking sheet to ensure they crisp nicely. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until golden and crunchy.
- Cool and Serve: Let the cheesy taco sticks cool slightly before serving. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a refreshing, colorful finish.
Notes
- Use Fresh Cheese: Freshly shredded cheese melts better providing a more desirable texture than pre-shredded.
- Don’t Overstuff: Keep layers of cheese and seasoning thin to ensure sticks remain crispy and avoid sogginess.
- Even Slices: Cutting sticks uniformly helps them bake evenly and look appealing.
- Watch Baking Time: Check during the last few minutes to prevent burning, especially if you like extra crispiness.
- Experiment with Tortillas: Use whole wheat or flavored tortillas (spinach, tomato) for added color and nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 sticks
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
Keywords: Cheesy Taco Sticks, taco snack, easy appetizers, cheesy snack, party food, baked tortilla snack