Cheesy garlic breadsticks are a delicious, savory treat that pairs perfectly with pasta, soup, or as a standalone appetizer. Made with a soft and chewy dough, a rich garlic butter spread, and topped with gooey melted cheese, these breadsticks are irresistible. They are easy to prepare and can be customized with different cheeses and seasonings to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare with minimal ingredients.
- Perfectly cheesy, garlicky, and flavorful.
- A great side dish for pasta, soups, or salads.
- Can be made with store-bought or homemade dough.
- Customizable with different cheese and seasoning options.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
- Butter
- Garlic (minced or garlic powder)
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded)
- Parmesan cheese (grated)
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Roll out the pizza dough into a rectangular shape, about ¼ inch thick.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over the rolled-out dough.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously on top.
- Add a light sprinkle of Italian seasoning for extra flavor.
- Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to score the dough into breadstick-sized portions.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before slicing along the scored lines.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Preparation time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
- Total time: 25-30 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for extra heat.
- Extra Cheesy: Mix in different cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or gouda.
- Herb Infused: Add fresh basil or oregano for a more aromatic flavor.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pizza dough for a gluten-free version.
- Stuffed Breadsticks: Fold the dough over the cheese and seal the edges for a gooey stuffed version.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover cheesy garlic breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for a crispy texture. Avoid microwaving as it can make the breadsticks soggy.
- Freezing: Wrap unbaked breadsticks in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
FAQs
How do I make these breadsticks extra crispy?
For a crispier texture, bake the breadsticks on a pizza stone or preheated baking sheet.
Can I use pre-made garlic butter?
Yes, store-bought garlic butter works well, but homemade allows you to adjust the flavors.
What type of cheese melts best for breadsticks?
Mozzarella is the best for a gooey texture, but you can mix in Parmesan or provolone for extra flavor.
Can I make these without cheese?
Yes, you can make garlic breadsticks without cheese by simply using garlic butter and seasonings.
Can I use store-bought dough?
Absolutely! Store-bought pizza dough saves time and works just as well.
How do I prevent the cheese from burning?
Cover the breadsticks loosely with foil if the cheese starts browning too quickly.
What dipping sauces go well with these breadsticks?
Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or Alfredo sauce pair wonderfully with these breadsticks.
Can I prepare these in advance?
Yes, you can assemble them ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to bake.
How do I make them softer?
Brush with extra butter after baking and cover with a kitchen towel for a few minutes.
Can I cook these in an air fryer?
Yes, cook at 350°F (175°C) for about 8-10 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Conclusion
Cheesy garlic breadsticks are a simple yet indulgent snack that is perfect for any occasion. Whether served as an appetizer, side dish, or late-night snack, they are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy customization options and simple storage methods, this recipe is a must-try for any bread lover.