Mexican Pick-Up Sticks
Crunchy, savory snack mix with cheesy, spicy flavors, perfect for parties or casual gatherings, offering a delightful combination of textures and bold seasoning.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine French fried onions, potato sticks, and cheese puffs in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Drizzle with melted butter and stir to combine.
- Sprinkle with taco seasoning and mix well.
- Bake at 250°F for 45 minutes, stirring every 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, try using spicy cheese puffs or adding diced jalapeños to the mixture. If you don't have Durkee products, any brand of fried onions or potato sticks will work. You can also substitute the taco seasoning with your favorite spice blend or homemade taco seasoning for a personal touch. Make sure to stir well to evenly coat all ingredients with butter and seasoning.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Mexican Pick-Up Sticks as a fun snack at parties or game day gatherings. They pair beautifully with dips like Chris' Chili Con Queso Dip or can be enjoyed on their own. Consider serving with a side of fresh salsa or guacamole for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, spread the mixture on a baking sheet and warm in a preheated oven at 250°F for about 10-15 minutes until crispy. Avoid using the microwave as it may make the sticks soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Pick-Up Sticks contains roughly 824 calories, with 7g protein, 47g carbohydrates, and 66g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2673mg per serving (116% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to add the melted butter and seasoning right before baking to ensure maximum crispiness. Bake it fresh when you're ready to serve for the best texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe healthier?
To lighten up this dish, consider using baked cheese puffs and a reduced-fat butter substitute. You can also add in more vegetables, like diced bell peppers or corn, to give it a nutritious boost while complementing the flavors of Mexican recipes.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. However, the texture may change upon reheating. For the best results, consider freezing before baking. When ready to eat, bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).