Now it’s time to create that cheesy taco goodness. In a mixing bowl, combine your shredded cheddar cheese and taco seasoning. The smell of the spices mingling with the cheese sends my senses into overdrive! Spread this mixture evenly over the dough rectangle. I like to get a little extra cheesy by adding a bit more cheese than the recipe calls for; it’s my secret trick! Once that’s done, cut your dough into strips using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife—this is where the magic really happens.
Next, twist each strip to give it that beautiful, artisanal look, and then brush them lightly with olive oil for that lovely golden finish. Place the twisted strips back onto the baking sheet and sprinkle with chopped cilantro if you’re a fan of that fresh kick (I absolutely am!). Bake them in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until they’re bubbly and golden brown. The aroma? Just heavenly!
As soon as they come out of the oven, the cheese is still gooey, and the breadsticks are piping hot. I recommend letting them rest for a minute before diving in—though that’s always a hard wait! Serve them warm with salsa on the side for dipping. Each bite is a delightful dance of cheese and spice!
Pro Tips for Best Results
I tested this recipe in a few different ways to find out what works best. First, dough thickness makes a significant difference; I found that keeping it at about half an inch thick ensures a perfectly soft inside while still getting crisp on the outside. You want that lovely contrast in texture!
Another tip is for the cheese itself—while I adore using cheddar, adding a bit of pepper jack can elevate your breadsticks with an exciting kick. Just be sure not to overdo it; a little heat goes a long way! I learned the hard way when I accidentally doubled up on the peppers, and let’s just say it was an experience I won’t forget.
Lastly, I always recommend a generous sprinkle of taco seasoning to really enhance the flavors. Depending on your taste, you might want to start with a little less—remember, you can always add more if you want that extra zing!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake I’ve made (and seen others fall into) is not preheating the oven long enough. It’s so tempting to rush, but if your oven isn’t hot enough, those breadsticks won’t rise and crisp up the way they should. I’ve ended up with doughy breadsticks that just weren’t as enjoyable. (See the next page below to continue…)