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Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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.

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