If you’re a fan of soft, flavorful breadsticks loaded with cheese and garlic, this recipe is for you! Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are the perfect side dish to accompany any meal, or even as a snack on their own. They’re easy to make, bursting with delicious flavors, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Let’s dive into how to make these irresistible breadsticks from scratch.

These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are an easy and delicious addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving them as a side or enjoying them as a snack, their combination of buttery garlic, gooey cheese, and soft bread will quickly make them a family favorite. Enjoy baking them, and don’t forget to make extra – they’ll be gone before you know it!

Why You’ll Love Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

  • Simple Ingredients: Most of the ingredients are pantry staples, making these breadsticks both convenient and budget-friendly.
  • Versatile Dish: These breadsticks can complement Italian dishes like pasta or pizza or be enjoyed as an appetizer or snack.
  • Crowd Pleaser: The combination of garlic, cheese, and buttery dough is hard to resist, making these breadsticks a hit with both kids and adults.

Ingredients

For this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
  • 1 cup warm water (around 110°F)
  • 2 tablespoons sugar
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)

For the Garlic Butter:

  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder (optional, for extra garlic flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)

For the Cheesy Topping:

  • 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)

INSTRUCTIONS:Instructions

Step 1: Make the Dough

  1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This step is crucial to ensure that the yeast is activated properly.
  2. Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine the yeast mixture with olive oil and salt. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing until the dough begins to form. Once the dough is no longer sticky, transfer it to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
  3. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with cooking spray.

Step 3: Roll Out the Dough

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air bubbles. Transfer it to a floured surface and use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a rectangle shape, about ½-inch thick. You can adjust the size of the rectangle depending on how thick or thin you want your breadsticks.

Step 4: Add the Garlic Butter

  1. Prepare the Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter with minced garlic, parsley, and garlic powder (if using). Mix until well combined.
  2. Spread the Butter: Using a pastry brush, generously spread the garlic butter mixture over the rolled-out dough, making sure to cover the entire surface.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning evenly over the buttered dough. If you like your breadsticks extra cheesy, feel free to add more cheese!

Step 6: Cut the Breadsticks

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the dough into strips about 1 to 1½ inches wide. For easy handling, you can leave the strips in place on the baking sheet without separating them.

Step 7: Bake the Breadsticks

Place the breadsticks in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 8: Serve

Once out of the oven, allow the breadsticks to cool for a few minutes. You can serve them as they are, or for an extra touch, brush them with a little more garlic butter right before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are perfect when served warm with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They also pair well with soups, salads, or Italian-inspired dishes like lasagna or spaghetti.

Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and parsley elevate the flavors in this recipe, though dried versions will work in a pinch.
  • Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are classics, you can try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a unique twist.
  • Make Ahead: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
  • Freezing Option: These breadsticks can also be frozen. After baking, let them cool completely, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to a month. Reheat in the oven when ready to serve.

Variations

  • Spicy Cheesy Breadsticks: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for a spicy kick.
  • Herb-Infused Breadsticks: Add dried oregano, basil, or thyme to the cheese topping for extra herby flavor.
  • Stuffed Breadsticks: For a fun surprise, you can stuff each breadstick with a slice of pepperoni or cooked sausage before baking.

ENJOY IT 💛