Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

Introduction

Homemade cheesy breadsticks are a delicious treat perfect for sharing or enjoying as a snack. Soft, flavorful, and loaded with gooey cheese, they’re easy to make from scratch and sure to please everyone at the table.

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 large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Step 2: Stir in the flour, salt, and olive oil until the dough begins to come together. Knead the dough for 5–7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
3. Step 3: Cover the bowl with a towel and let the dough rise in a warm spot for 45–60 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.
4. Step 4: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Step 5: Roll the risen dough into a rectangle about 9×13 inches and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
6. Step 6: Brush the dough with melted butter, then evenly sprinkle the minced garlic and Italian seasoning on top.
7. Step 7: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and the optional cheddar or Gruyère cheese evenly over the dough.
8. Step 8: Bake for 12–15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges turn golden brown.
9. Step 9: If desired, brush with additional melted butter. Slice into breadsticks and serve warm with marinara, ranch, or garlic sauce.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or flaky salt before baking.
• Substitute Italian seasoning with fresh herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different twist.
• Use any melty cheese you prefer—provolone or fontina work well too.
• Make smaller breadsticks for party-sized servings.

Storage

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or until warm and crispy. Avoid microwaving to maintain the breadstick’s texture.

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. Allow it to come to room temperature and rise before rolling out and baking.

What if I don’t have active dry yeast?

You can substitute with instant yeast using the same quantity, but mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing in water first.

Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

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★★★★★

5 from 146 reviews

These homemade cheesy breadsticks are soft, flavorful, and topped with a blend of melted mozzarella and optional cheddar or Gruyère cheese, enhanced with garlic and Italian seasoning. Perfect as a snack, appetizer, or side, they deliver a cheesy, garlicky goodness baked to golden perfection in the oven.

• Author: Victoria
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
• Category: Appetizer
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

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 Yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
2. Make and Knead Dough: Stir in the flour, salt, and olive oil into the yeast mixture until the dough starts to come together. Transfer to a floured surface and knead for 5–7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
3. Let Dough Rise: Place the dough back into the bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm spot for 45–60 minutes or until doubled in size.
4. Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Sheet: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
5. Shape Dough: Roll out the dough into a rectangle approximately 9×13 inches. Transfer this dough rectangle onto the prepared baking sheet.
6. Apply Toppings: Brush the dough evenly with melted butter. Sprinkle minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the surface. Add shredded mozzarella and, if using, cheddar or Gruyère cheese for an extra flavor punch.
7. Bake Breadsticks: Bake the prepared dough in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
8. Finish and Serve: Optionally brush the breadsticks with more melted butter after baking. Slice into individual breadsticks and serve warm alongside marinara, ranch, or garlic sauce.

Notes

• You can substitute the optional cheddar or Gruyère cheese with any cheese of your preference for varied flavor profiles.
• For a spicier kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes before baking or after brushing with butter.
• Keep the dough covered during rising to prevent it from drying out.
• Serve warm for the best texture and flavor experience.
• These breadsticks freeze well; freeze baked breadsticks in an airtight container and reheat in the oven before serving.

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