Taco Sticks
Crispy taco sticks combine seasoned beef and melted cheese wrapped in eggrolls, perfect for dipping. A fun, flavorful appetizer or snack for parties and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Follow the directions on the taco seasoning package to prepare the taco meat. Let it cool.
- Cut the cheese into 3 x 1/4 x 1/4-inch strips.
- Lay an eggroll wrapper with a corner facing you.
- Spoon 1 tablespoon of taco meat on the corner closest to you.
- Place one cheese strip on top of the taco meat.
- Baste the edge of the wrapper opposite the filling with beaten egg.
- Roll the wrapper according to the instructions on the eggroll package.
- Deep fry the rolled tacos in oil until the cheese starts to come out of the wrapper.
- Serve with taco sauce or picante sauce for dipping.
- Optional: serve with sour cream as a dip.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispy exterior, ensure the oil is hot enough before frying; a temperature of 350°F works best. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the hamburger for a lighter option. If you want extra flavor, consider adding diced jalapeños or chopped onions to the taco meat. For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute or black beans instead of meat. These Taco Sticks are also great served with Karen'S Hot Bean Dip.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these Taco Sticks with taco sauce or picante sauce for a delicious dipping experience. They pair wonderfully with a side of fresh guacamole or a simple salad to balance the richness. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Mexican recipes like Mexican Pork Chili or a refreshing corn salad. Don't forget to offer sour cream on the side for an extra creamy dip!
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in an oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving, as this can make the wrappers soggy. You can also freeze uncooked rolls for up to a month; just fry them straight from the freezer when ready to enjoy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Taco Sticks contains roughly 732 calories, with 7g protein, 37g carbohydrates, and 62g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value) and calcium (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 679mg per serving (30% 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 these Taco Sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the Taco Sticks a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the refrigerator until you're ready to fry. This makes it easy to entertain guests or enjoy a quick meal. Just remember to fry them fresh for the best texture!
What can I use as a substitute for eggroll wraps?
If you can't find eggroll wraps, you can use spring roll wrappers or even tortillas for a different twist. Just adjust the cooking time as needed, since tortillas may cook faster. Alternatively, phyllo dough can be used for a flaky version, although the texture will differ from the traditional eggroll wrap.
How can I make these Taco Sticks spicier?
To add some heat, mix in diced jalapeños or chili powder into the taco meat mixture. You could also use a spicy taco sauce or serve with a hot salsa on the side. For an even bolder flavor, consider incorporating a dash of hot sauce into the sour cream or using a spicy variety of cheese.
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).