Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

Introduction

Homemade cheesy breadsticks are a delicious, crowd-pleasing snack or appetizer. Soft, garlicky dough topped with melted mozzarella and a hint of Italian seasoning makes these breadsticks irresistible and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella
• ¼ cup cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional, for flavor boost)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or flaky salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Step 2: In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, then stir until a dough forms.
3. Step 3: Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Step 4: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
5. Step 5: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches on a baking sheet.
6. Step 6: In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture generously over the dough.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and optional cheddar or Gruyère evenly over the top. Add red pepper flakes or flaky salt if using.
8. Step 8: Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the crust is golden.
9. Step 9: Allow to cool slightly before slicing into breadsticks and serving warm.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add fresh chopped herbs like basil or parsley on top after baking.
• Use a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese for a sharper taste.
• If you prefer a softer crust, cover the breadsticks with foil after 10 minutes of baking.
• For a gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, adjusting liquid as needed.

Storage

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. They can also be frozen for up to 1 month; thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it overnight. Bring it to room temperature before rolling and baking.

What can I serve with cheesy breadsticks?

They pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple side salad for a complete snack or meal.

Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

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4.4 from 121 reviews

These Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks are warm, soft, and loaded with gooey mozzarella and a hint of cheddar or Gruyère for extra flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or side, they feature a tender yeast dough topped with garlic butter and Italian seasoning, baked to golden perfection.

• Author: Tara
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Dough:

• 2¼ tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Topping:

• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional, for flavor boost)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes or flaky salt

Instructions

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, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Prepare the dough mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the activated yeast mixture along with the olive oil.
3. Knead the dough: Mix until a soft dough forms, then turn it onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and lightly grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
6. Shape the breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Roll or stretch the dough into a rectangle about 12×8 inches. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, score the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide) without cutting all the way through.
7. Prepare garlic butter topping: In a small bowl, combine melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Brush this mixture evenly over the surface of the dough.
8. Add cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, then add the optional cheddar or Gruyère cheese if using.
9. Bake the breadsticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Finishing touches: Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven. Optionally, sprinkle with red pepper flakes or flaky salt for an extra flavor punch. Let cool slightly before serving to allow the cheese to set a bit.

Notes

• Ensure your water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast without killing it.
• You can add herbs like oregano or basil to the dough or topping for added flavor.
• If you prefer crispier breadsticks, bake a few minutes longer watching carefully to prevent burning.
• These breadsticks are best served warm but can be reheated in the oven to refresh their texture.
• For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend suitable for yeast dough.

Keywords: cheesy breadsticks, homemade breadsticks, garlic breadsticks, mozzarella breadsticks, easy appetizer, Italian breadsticks, cheesy appetizer