Craving something warm, gooey, and dripping with cheese? These homemade cheesy breadsticks are a dream come true for carb and cheese lovers alike.
Soft on the inside, golden on the outside, and loaded with melty mozzarella, they’re the perfect sidekick for pasta night, pizza parties, or simply satisfying those late-night snack cravings.
Whip them up with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen and enjoy that bakery-style aroma filling your home. Whether you dip them in marinara sauce, garlic butter, or creamy ranch, these cheesy breadsticks will steal the spotlight every single time.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 8 breadsticks
- Serves: 4 people
Why This Recipe Works
This cheesy breadstick recipe is a winner because it uses simple pantry ingredients and delivers restaurant-quality results every time.
The combination of mozzarella and parmesan creates the perfect cheese pull, while garlic butter adds incredible flavor. Plus, these breadsticks are versatile enough to serve with pasta, soup, or as a party appetizer that disappears in minutes.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
- Pastry brush
- Pizza cutter or sharp knife
- Clean kitchen towel
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Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ tsp) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Topping:
- 3 tablespoons butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce or pizza sauce for dipping
Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
Step 2: Knead and Rise
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the dough rises, mix melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl. Set aside.
Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Punch down the risen dough and roll it out on a parchment-lined baking sheet into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Brush the entire surface with garlic butter. Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the dough. Add Italian seasoning and garlic powder on top.
Step 6: Bake
Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the edges are crispy.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Remove from the oven and immediately brush with any remaining garlic butter. Use a pizza cutter to slice into 8 breadsticks. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with marinara sauce.
Pro Tips for Perfect Breadsticks
- Temperature matters: Make sure your water is between 105-115°F. Too hot will kill the yeast; too cold won’t activate it.
- Extra cheesy: Add a layer of cheese under and on top of the dough for ultimate cheesiness.
- Crispy bottom: Bake directly on a preheated pizza stone for an extra crispy crust.
- Make ahead: Prepare the dough the night before and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out.
- Flavor variations: Try adding red pepper flakes for heat or swap Italian seasoning for everything bagel seasoning.
Nutrition Information (Per Breadstick)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 285 |
Total Fat | 12g |
Saturated Fat | 6g |
Cholesterol | 28mg |
Sodium | 465mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 33g |
Dietary Fiber | 1g |
Sugars | 2g |
Protein | 11g |
Calcium | 215mg |
Iron | 2mg |
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! You can substitute instant yeast in the same amount. You can skip the proofing step and add it directly to the flour, though proofing helps ensure your yeast is active.
Can I make these without a stand mixer?
Yes! This recipe is designed to be made by hand. Just knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
What cheese works best for the stretch?
Low-moisture mozzarella gives the best cheese pull. Avoid fresh mozzarella as it contains too much moisture and can make the breadsticks soggy.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
The dough should double in size. Press two fingers into the dough; if the indentations remain, it’s ready.
Final Thoughts
These cheesy breadsticks are the ultimate crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re hosting game night, looking for a fun weekend baking project, or just craving something warm and cheesy, this recipe won’t disappoint. The best part? Once you master this basic recipe, you can customize it with your favorite cheeses, herbs, and toppings to make it your own signature dish.
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