Baked Cheesy Taco Sticks

– 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

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.