There is something incredibly satisfying about pulling a tray of warm, cheesy garlic breadsticks out of the oven. I love how the soft, fluffy bread pairs with buttery garlic, savory parmesan, and gooey melted mozzarella. Whether I serve them as a side dish with pasta, a party appetizer, or a comforting snack with marinara sauce, they always disappear quickly.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 1/8 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
3/4 cup warm water
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1 1/2 to 2 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Directions
I combine 1/2 cup of the warm water with the sugar and yeast in a large mixing bowl. I let the mixture sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Then I add the remaining warm water, olive oil, salt, and vinegar. I gradually mix in the flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
I knead the dough for several minutes until it is smooth and elastic. Then I cover it and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
I preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside.
Next I punch down the dough and place it on parchment paper. I stretch or roll it into a rectangle about 1/3-inch thick.
I mix the melted butter with the minced garlic and spread the mixture evenly over the dough.
Then I sprinkle the parmesan cheese followed by the shredded mozzarella evenly across the surface.
I carefully transfer the parchment paper and dough onto the hot baking surface.
I bake for 8–12 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the edges are beautifully golden.
Next I let the breadsticks cool slightly before slicing and serving them warm with marinara sauce if I like.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 14 breadsticks
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
Calories: Approximately 182 kcal per serving
Variations
I sometimes add Italian seasoning or dried oregano over the cheese for extra flavor.
I like sprinkling crushed red pepper flakes on top when I want a little heat.
I occasionally swap the mozzarella with a blend of provolone, Monterey Jack, or cheddar for a different cheesy finish.
I enjoy brushing the baked breadsticks with a little extra garlic butter and fresh parsley before serving.
I sometimes add thin slices of pepperoni for a heartier appetizer.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, I freeze them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months.
I reheat them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–8 minutes to restore their crispy edges and melted cheese.
If I need a quick option, I warm individual breadsticks in the microwave for 20–30 seconds, although the oven gives the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes. I find that all-purpose flour works well, although bread flour creates a slightly chewier texture.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
I wait until the dough has roughly doubled in size. This usually takes about one hour in a warm environment.
Can I prepare the dough ahead of time?
Yes. I make the dough in advance and refrigerate it after the first rise for up to 24 hours before shaping and baking.
What can I serve with these breadsticks?
I enjoy serving them with marinara sauce, pasta dishes, soups, salads, or as a side for pizza night.
Can I freeze baked breadsticks?
Yes. I let them cool completely before freezing. I simply reheat them in the oven until they are hot and the cheese is melted again.
Conclusion
I love making these Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks because they deliver bakery-style results with simple ingredients and minimal effort. The fluffy homemade dough, buttery garlic topping, and generous layer of melted cheese create a comforting recipe that fits almost any meal or gathering. Whenever I want a warm, cheesy side dish or snack, this recipe is one of my favorite choices.
📖 Recipe:
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Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: 14 breadsticks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and loaded with buttery garlic, parmesan, and gooey mozzarella. They make the perfect side dish, appetizer, or snack served warm with marinara sauce.
Ingredients
1 1/8 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 teaspoon granulated sugar
3/4 cup warm water
1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon white vinegar
1 1/2 to 2 cups bread flour or all-purpose flour
1 1/2 tablespoons salted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1 1/4 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Marinara sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Combine 1/2 cup of the warm water with the sugar and yeast in a large mixing bowl. Let stand for about 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add the remaining warm water, olive oil, salt, and vinegar. Gradually mix in the flour until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough until smooth and elastic. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 475°F (245°C) with a pizza stone or an inverted baking sheet inside.
- Punch down the dough and place it on parchment paper. Roll or stretch into a rectangle about 1/3-inch thick.
- Mix the melted butter with the minced garlic and spread evenly over the dough.
- Sprinkle the parmesan cheese evenly over the dough, then top with the shredded mozzarella.
- Carefully transfer the parchment paper and dough onto the preheated baking surface.
- Bake for 8 to 12 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Cool slightly, slice into breadsticks, and serve warm with marinara sauce if desired.
Notes
Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, dried oregano, or crushed red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
Swap mozzarella with provolone, Monterey Jack, or cheddar for a different cheese blend.
Brush with additional garlic butter and fresh parsley after baking for extra richness.
Add thin slices of pepperoni for a heartier variation.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 to 8 minutes.
Microwave individual breadsticks for 20 to 30 seconds for quick reheating, though the oven provides the best texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick
- Calories: 182 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 290 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 22 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 7 g
- Cholesterol: 15 mg
