Introduction
I’ve always had a soft spot for cheesy breadsticks. There’s something about the golden crust, the stretchy cheese, and the warm, fluffy center that turns a regular meal into something extra special. I started making these breadsticks years ago, back when I wanted something homemade to serve alongside my soups and pastas. What began as a simple side has now become a must-have in my kitchen.
The first time I baked them, I didn’t even expect much. I just wanted to use up some leftover dough and a block of cheese sitting in the fridge. But the smell that filled the kitchen had the entire family circling like hungry hawks. The tray barely made it to the table before half of them were gone. Since that day, I’ve been hooked.
These breadsticks are now my answer to just about everything. Got unexpected guests? Cheesy breadsticks. Want to upgrade spaghetti night? Cheesy breadsticks. Need a comforting snack on a rainy afternoon? You already know.
Whether I’m dipping them in marinara, serving them with soup, or just sneaking one fresh from the oven, they always hit the spot. I love that I can make them from scratch with ingredients I already have on hand—and I know exactly what’s in them.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Versatile
These breadsticks go with just about anything—soups, salads, pasta dishes, or even as a snack on their own. You can also switch up the cheese or add toppings like garlic butter or herbs.
Budget-Friendly
The ingredients are pantry staples—flour, yeast, cheese, and a few spices. It’s way cheaper than takeout or store-bought versions, and the flavor is so much better.
Ingredients for the Recipe
For the Dough:
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2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
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1 cup warm water (about 40°C/105°F)
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon sugar
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for dusting)
For the Topping:
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1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
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1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
How to Make This Recipe
These cheesy breadsticks are simple to make and don’t require any fancy equipment. You’ll start by preparing a basic yeast dough, let it rise, and then roll it out, top it with cheese, and bake it until golden and bubbling. The result? A tray of irresistible breadsticks that are crisp on the outside, soft on the inside, and gooey with melted cheese.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks foamy on top. If nothing happens, your yeast may be inactive—start over with fresh yeast.
Step 2: Add Oil, Salt, and Flour
Once the yeast is active, stir in olive oil and salt. Begin adding the flour one cup at a time, stirring after each addition. The dough will start to come together and pull away from the sides of the bowl. When it gets too thick to stir, switch to kneading.
Step 3: Knead the Dough
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Knead for about 8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough sticks to your hands, sprinkle in a little more flour—but don’t overdo it. A slightly tacky dough is perfect.
Step 4: First Rise
Place the dough in a clean, lightly oiled bowl. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 5: Prepare the Topping
While the dough is rising, mix together the garlic powder and melted butter in a small bowl. Grate your mozzarella and Parmesan and set them aside. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
Step 6: Roll Out the Dough
Once risen, punch down the dough and place it on a lightly floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle about 9×13 inches. Transfer the dough to your prepared baking sheet.
Step 7: Add Toppings
Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the mozzarella over the entire surface, followed by the Parmesan. For extra flavor, add a pinch of oregano on top.
Step 8: Cut Before Baking
Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the dough into sticks—don’t separate them, just make the cuts now. This makes it easier to pull apart after baking.
Step 9: Bake
Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Bake the breadsticks for 13–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden and the edges of the bread are lightly browned.
Step 10: Finish and Serve
Remove from the oven and let them sit for 5 minutes. Sprinkle with fresh parsley if you like, then cut again along the same lines and separate the breadsticks. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce—marinara, ranch, or garlic butter all work beautifully.
Quick and Easy
This recipe is designed to fit into your day with minimal stress. Most of the time is hands-off—just waiting for the dough to rise. You can prepare everything in advance and bake just before serving. The steps are straightforward and the ingredients are simple, so you don’t need to be a pro baker to succeed.
Customizable
Feel free to get creative. Want to spice things up? Add crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese. Prefer a richer flavor? Mix in some shredded cheddar with the mozzarella. For a herby version, stir Italian seasoning into the dough or sprinkle fresh basil on top before serving. You can also make this gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may vary slightly.
Looking for a healthier twist? Use whole wheat flour for a heartier bite and try a reduced-fat cheese blend. If you’re serving a crowd, double the recipe and bake it on a large sheet pan—just adjust the baking time accordingly.
Perfect for Guests
These breadsticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Serve them hot as an appetizer, alongside pasta, or as part of a snack spread. They’re especially popular at parties, game nights, and casual dinners. You can even cut them smaller and serve them as dippable bites. They reheat well in the oven too, so leftovers (if there are any!) are never a problem.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I freeze the dough or baked breadsticks?
Yes. You can freeze the dough after the first rise—just wrap it tightly and store it for up to one month. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before using. Baked breadsticks can also be frozen once cooled. Reheat them in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 8–10 minutes until warmed through.
What type of cheese works best?
Mozzarella is the most popular choice for its meltability and mild flavor. However, you can mix in other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a little gouda for a richer taste. Just make sure they melt well.
Can I make them without yeast?
You can use a no-yeast dough with baking powder, but the texture will be more biscuit-like and less chewy. It’s a faster method if you’re short on time, but traditional yeast dough gives the best results.
What dipping sauces go well with these breadsticks?
Classic marinara is always a hit, but garlic butter, herbed yogurt dips, or even a creamy tomato sauce are great choices. You can also serve them plain—they’re flavorful enough on their own.