This homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks recipe is everything you need for a comforting, crowd-pleasing snack or side dish. Warm, soft, and loaded with gooey shredded mozzarella, these breadsticks are sure to disappear fast at any gathering or family dinner.
I first made this recipe for a game night with friends, and it was an instant hit. The combination of fluffy homemade breadsticks, savory garlic butter, and perfectly melted cheese made it impossible to stop at just one. Since then, it’s become a go-to for everything from cozy pasta nights to quick party appetizers.
What’s Inside This Recipe?
My Take on Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
There’s just something magical about freshly baked bread, isn’t there? What I love most about these homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks is how simple they are to make while tasting like they came straight from a restaurant.
The dough is soft and fluffy, with just the right amount of chewiness. And that garlic butter? It’s the perfect savory base for the layer of melty, golden shredded mozzarella on top. Plus, you can customize these breadsticks with your favorite seasonings or even add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flair.
Trust me, whether you’re serving these with a bowl of marinara or as a side for your favorite pasta dish, they’ll quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
To make these irresistible breadsticks, you’ll need just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
For best results, I recommend using fresh garlic and a high-quality shredded mozzarella. You’ll also need a baking sheet and parchment paper for easy cleanup.
How to Make Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Making cheesy garlic breadsticks at home is easier than you might think! Here’s how to do it step by step:
Activate the Yeast
Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go.
Mix the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Knead and Rest
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Shape the Breadsticks
Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 9×12 inches. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet and use a pizza cutter or knife to slice it into strips (about 1 inch wide). Don’t separate the strips just yet—this helps them bake evenly.
Add Garlic Butter and Cheese
Brush the melted butter over the dough, making sure to coat every inch. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the top, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. If you’re using parsley, sprinkle that on too for a hint of color and flavor.
Bake to Perfection
Bake the breadsticks in a preheated oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Serve Warm
Once out of the oven, let the breadsticks cool for a couple of minutes before separating them. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping, or alongside your favorite pasta dish.
How to Serve Your Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
These cheesy garlic breadsticks are incredibly versatile and can be served in so many delicious ways! Here are a few ideas:
- Pair them with a classic marinara or garlic butter dipping sauce for a satisfying appetizer.
- Serve them alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or any pasta dish for the ultimate comfort meal.
- Add them to your game-day spread alongside wings, sliders, or a veggie platter.
- For a little extra flair, sprinkle the breadsticks with grated Parmesan and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes before baking.
Storing and Enjoying Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (though that’s rare in my house!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, simply place the breadsticks on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 5 minutes. This will help them regain their soft texture and gooey cheese topping.
Top Tips for Customizing Your Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
- Want to make these extra garlicky? Add a pinch of garlic powder to the melted butter for a stronger flavor.
- For a fun twist, swap out the mozzarella for a blend of cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or provolone.
- Need a gluten-free option? Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make the dough.
- Add some flair with toppings like Italian seasoning, sesame seeds, or fresh basil leaves.
Your Questions About Homemade Breadsticks Answered
What’s the best way to get soft, fluffy breadsticks?
The key is to not over-knead the dough and to let it rest for at least 10 minutes before baking. This allows the gluten to relax, resulting in soft, pillowy breadsticks.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the dough in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out and assembling the breadsticks.
Can I freeze the breadsticks?
Absolutely. Bake the breadsticks as directed, let them cool completely, and then freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
What can I use instead of mozzarella cheese?
If you don’t have mozzarella on hand, try using shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
Gooey, garlicky, and oh-so irresistible!
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try out this ultimate homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks recipe! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that everyone will love.
If you give this recipe a go, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Leave a comment below or tag me on social media with your cheesy breadstick creations. And don’t forget to explore more comforting recipes on WandaRecipes.com for your next cooking adventure.
Happy baking!
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Ingredients
- 2¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water about 110°F
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley optional
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
Activate the Yeast
- Start by combining the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. This means the yeast is activated and ready to go.
Mix the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil, stirring until a soft dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time.
Knead and Rest
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it for about 5 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Place it in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rest for 10 minutes.
Shape the Breadsticks
- Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about 9×12 inches. Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet and use a pizza cutter or knife to slice it into strips (about 1 inch wide). Don’t separate the strips just yet—this helps them bake evenly.
Add Garlic Butter and Cheese
- Brush the melted butter over the dough, making sure to coat every inch. Sprinkle the minced garlic evenly over the top, followed by the shredded mozzarella cheese. If you’re using parsley, sprinkle that on too for a hint of color and flavor.
Bake to Perfection
- Bake the breadsticks in a preheated oven at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
Serve Warm
- Once out of the oven, let the breadsticks cool for a couple of minutes before separating them. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping, or alongside your favorite pasta dish.
