Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are a perfect blend of soft dough, melted cheese, and flavorful garlic butter. These breadsticks are easy to make and pair wonderfully with pasta, soups, or as a standalone snack. Let’s dive into the recipe and make these crowd-pleasing breadsticks from scratch!
Table of Contents
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Garlic Butter Topping
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
For the Cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- Activate Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
- Mix Dough: Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can knead by hand or use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.
- First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Shape and Prepare the Breadsticks
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Roll Out Dough: Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to a lightly floured surface. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, approximately 9×13 inches.
- Transfer to Baking Sheet: Carefully place the rolled dough onto the prepared baking sheet.
- Add Toppings: In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, oregano, and parsley. Brush the garlic butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Bake the Breadsticks
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Cool and Slice: Let the breadsticks cool for a few minutes, then slice into strips with a pizza cutter or sharp knife. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes and Tips
- Water Temperature: Make sure the water is warm (not hot) to properly activate the yeast. If the water is too hot, it can kill the yeast.
- Flour: Start with 2 1/2 cups of flour, but you may need a little more or less depending on the humidity and other factors. The dough should be soft but not sticky.
- Garlic Butter: Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. More garlic will add an extra kick of flavor.
Variations
- Herbed Breadsticks: Add fresh herbs like basil or thyme to the dough for extra flavor.
- Cheddar Breadsticks: Substitute mozzarella with shredded cheddar cheese for a different cheesy flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a hint of spice.
Serving Suggestions
- With Marinara Sauce: Serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.
- Alongside Pasta: These breadsticks pair perfectly with your favorite pasta dishes, like spaghetti or lasagna.
- Soup Companion: Serve with tomato soup or minestrone for a comforting meal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can make the dough ahead of time. After the first rise, cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature before rolling it out.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes to crisp them up.
Can I Freeze These Breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze baked breadsticks. Let them cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through.
Can I Use Pre-Made Pizza Dough?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use pre-made pizza dough to make these breadsticks. Just roll it out and proceed with the toppings and baking.
What Type of Cheese Is Best?
Mozzarella gives the best melt, but you can mix in other cheeses like provolone or Monterey Jack for added flavor.
Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are an easy and delicious addition to any meal. Soft, flavorful, and topped with plenty of cheese, these breadsticks are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Gather your ingredients, bake, and enjoy these comforting breadsticks fresh out of the oven!
Happy Baking!
