Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Nothing can go wrong with cheesy, garlicky breadsticks. They’re soft, doughy, and packed with rich umami flavor from the melted cheeses, while that gentle kick of garlic warmth makes each bite feel like comfort in edible form.

Whether you’re serving them alongside pasta, a hot bowl of soup, or simply enjoying them as a standalone snack, these cheesy garlic breadsticks are sure to be a hit. They’re surprisingly easy to make at home and can be prepped in advance for whenever the craving strikes!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft & Chewy Texture – Thanks to the homemade dough.

• Loaded with Cheese – Mozzarella + Parmesan for that perfect gooey pull.

• Garlicky Goodness – A buttery, herby garlic topping.

• Make-Ahead Friendly – Great for prepping and reheating later.

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Ingredients

For the Bread Dough:

• 1½ cups + 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 1 tbsp dry instant yeast

• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, cubed and at room temperature

• ½ tbsp granulated sugar

• 1 cup lukewarm milk

• 1 tsp salt

• Lukewarm water, as needed

• Cornmeal, for dusting (optional but recommended)

For the Topping:

• 2 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

• 1 tsp Italian herb seasoning

• 1⅓ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup grated parmesan cheese

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• A handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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⏱️ Time Breakdown

• Prep Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes

• Servings: Makes 14 breadsticks

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Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

In a medium bowl, mix:

• 1 cup lukewarm milk

• 1 tbsp yeast

• ½ tbsp sugar

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

Let this sit at room temperature for 10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly. This is a sign that the yeast has activated.

Tip: If your yeast doesn’t foam, it may be expired or the liquid was too hot. Try again with fresh yeast and lukewarm milk (~100°F/38°C).

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2. Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine:

• Remaining flour

• 3 tbsp cubed butter

Use your fingers or a fork to rub the butter into the flour until the mixture resembles coarse breadcrumbs or sand.

Add:

• 1 tsp salt

• The foamy yeast-milk mixture

Begin kneading the dough. Add lukewarm water gradually as needed (1–3 tbsp) until you get a soft, slightly sticky dough.

Knead for 8–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

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3. First Rise

Form the dough into a ball and place it in a greased bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and coat the surface of the dough.

Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

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4. Prepare the Garlic Butter

While the dough rises, mix in a small bowl:

• 2 tbsp softened butter

• 2 minced garlic cloves

• 1 tsp Italian herb seasoning

• Salt and pepper to taste

Set aside.

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5. Shape the Dough

Lightly dust your surface with flour. Punch down the risen dough and knead for 5 minutes to smooth it out.

Roll it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick.

Dust a baking sheet with cornmeal and gently transfer the dough onto it. Use your fingers to stretch and press it evenly into the pan.

Cover again with a kitchen towel and let it rest for 15–20 minutes.

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6. Bake – Part One

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Once rested, place the dough in the oven and bake for 15 minutes, or until lightly golden.

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7. Add the Cheesy Garlic Topping

Remove the partially baked dough from the oven.

Brush the surface evenly with the prepared garlic butter. Then generously sprinkle:

• 1⅓ cups shredded mozzarella

• ½ cup grated parmesan

Crank up the oven to 450°F (232°C) and return the tray to the oven. Bake for an additional 8–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbling, and golden.

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8. Serve

Remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two.

Slice into sticks using a sharp knife or pizza cutter. Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or extra garlic butter.

Optional Add-on: Sprinkle crushed red chili flakes for a little kick!

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Storage & Reheating

• To Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• To Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes or microwave in 15-second bursts until heated through.

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Recipe Tips

• Use bread flour for a chewier texture if desired.

• Don’t skip the second resting period—this helps keep the bread soft.

• For extra flavor, infuse the butter with garlic over low heat before brushing.

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Perfect for Sharing

Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or prepping appetizers for a crowd, these cheesy garlic breadsticks will steal the show. Plus, they freeze well, so make a double batch and keep some ready for those cheesy cravings.