Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe
Table of Contents
These cheesy breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food – warm, soft, and loaded with gooey cheese. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to disappear fast! Whether you’re dipping them in marinara sauce or enjoying them on their own, these breadsticks are a hit for any occasion.
Ingredients:
Dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
Instructions:
1. Make the Dough:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
2. Prepare the Breadsticks:
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian herbs.
- Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the dough.
- For easy serving, use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide).
3. Bake:
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before pulling the breadsticks apart.
4. Serve:
- Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Notes:
- Yeast Tips: Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients. If using active dry yeast, activate it in warm water with sugar for 5 minutes before mixing.
- Cheese Options: Feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge for an overnight rise.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, drizzle garlic butter over the breadsticks as soon as they come out of the oven.
- Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
- For a crispier bottom, bake on a preheated pizza stone or cast-iron skillet.
Servings:
- This recipe makes about 12 breadsticks, depending on how thick you cut them.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 210
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Protein: 8g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 380mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
Benefits:
- Cheese: Good source of calcium and protein.
- Homemade Dough: Lower in preservatives compared to store-bought options.
- Versatility: Can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.
Q/A:
Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
A: Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great shortcut. Just roll it out and follow the topping and baking instructions.
Q: Can I freeze the breadsticks?
A: Yes! Freeze baked breadsticks in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Q: What dipping sauces go well with cheesy breadsticks?
A: Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce are fantastic choices.
Q: Can I make these gluten-free?
A: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.
These cheesy breadsticks are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness with your favorite dipping sauce!