Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks

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Introduction

When I think comfort food, there’s one thing that never fails to satisfy—warm, garlicky, homemade cheesy breadsticks. From the first time I pulled a batch out of the oven, bubbling with melted cheese and golden around the edges, I knew this recipe was going to be a staple in my kitchen. These aren’t your average pizza joint breadsticks—they’re homemade, perfectly soft on the inside with a crisp, cheesy crust on the outside, and loaded with that addictive, buttery, garlicky flavor we all crave.

I love making these for game nights, cozy dinners, or anytime I want to serve a crowd-pleaser that never lets me down. They’re easy to prep, bake up beautifully, and the smell alone will have everyone hovering around the kitchen. Whether you pair them with marinara sauce, ranch, or just eat them straight off the tray (like I often do), these homemade cheesy breadsticks are pure carb-loaded joy. And the best part? You control everything—from the type of cheese to the herbs sprinkled on top—so they’re always exactly how you want them.

So if you’ve ever wondered how to make cheesy breadsticks at home that taste even better than takeout, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into the doughy, cheesy magic.

Perfect For

• Game day appetizers or party snacks
• Family pizza night side dish
• A kid-friendly recipe everyone will devour
• Dipping in marinara, ranch, or garlic butter
• Satisfying late-night cravings

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Cheesy and gooey. Loaded with a generous layer of mozzarella (and more if you want!), these breadsticks deliver that stretchy, melty cheese pull we all dream about.
• Buttery garlic flavor. Every bite is infused with savory, aromatic garlic butter for serious flavor.
• Soft yet crispy texture. The dough bakes up pillowy on the inside and golden brown on the outside, just like classic pizzeria breadsticks.
• Quick dough option. No need for hours of rising—this recipe uses a simple yeast dough that comes together fast.
• Perfect for dipping. Marinara, Alfredo, ranch, garlic butter—you name it, these breadsticks are the ultimate dunkable snack.

Prep & Cook Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 12 breadsticks
• Calories: ~210 per serving

Ingredients

• 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Mozzarella cheese: Provides the stretchy, gooey center. Use low-moisture for best melt.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps brown the top.
• Active dry yeast: Creates rise and softness. Make sure your water is warm but not hot.
• Garlic and butter: Infuse the dough and topping with bold, savory flavor.
• Italian seasoning: Optional, but adds an herby pizzeria-style touch.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, stir warm water and sugar together. Sprinkle in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Make the dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 30–45 minutes or until doubled.
4. Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
5. Shape and top: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 10×14 inches). Transfer to the baking sheet. Brush with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional Italian seasoning.
6. Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.
7. Slice and garnish: Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice into breadsticks. Garnish with parsley if desired.

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Serving Suggestions

• Serve with warm marinara or pizza sauce for dipping.
• Pair with a Caesar salad for a satisfying lunch.
• Add to a pasta night spread as the cheesy sidekick.
• Dip in garlic butter or Alfredo for extra indulgence.
• Use as a base for mini flatbread pizzas.

Additional Tips

• Don’t overwork the dough — knead just until it’s smooth.
• Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
• Add crushed red pepper flakes on top for a spicy twist.
• Double the cheese if you want an even gooier center.
• Make them ahead by prepping the dough and refrigerating overnight.

Recipe Variations

• Four-Cheese Breadsticks
  • Take your cheesy pull-apart game to the next level by mixing in shredded provolone and fontina with the mozzarella and Parmesan. The result is a rich, gooey, ultra-flavorful cheese blend that melts like a dream and delivers that irresistible cheese pull every time.
• Garlic Herb Breadsticks
  • Add a tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil directly into the dough for a fragrant twist. Brush the tops with garlic butter after baking to double down on the flavor and give them a rustic, pizzeria-style finish.
• Stuffed Breadsticks
  • Want something extra gooey? Wrap individual cheese sticks (like string cheese or small mozzarella cubes) inside your dough strips before baking. You’ll end up with molten cheesy centers in every bite—perfect for dipping in marinara.
• Low-Carb Option
  • For a keto-friendly version, swap traditional dough for fathead dough made with almond flour, shredded mozzarella, cream cheese, and egg. It bakes up golden and chewy, and pairs beautifully with garlic butter and low-carb marinara.
• Gluten-Free Version
  • Substitute the regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for stretch and structure, which helps mimic traditional breadstick texture. Be sure to monitor the dough’s hydration—gluten-free blends may absorb more or less moisture.

Storage & Freezing

Refrigerator
Got leftovers? Store cooled breadsticks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in foil. They’ll keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, skip the microwave and use the oven or toaster oven to bring back that just-baked crunch—400°F for about 5–7 minutes does the trick.

Freezer
These breadsticks freeze beautifully! Once completely cool, wrap them individually in foil or parchment, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. To reheat, pop them straight from frozen into a 375°F oven for 10–12 minutes until hot and crispy. No thawing needed.

Reheat
The oven is your best friend for reheating. Set it to 350°F and warm the breadsticks for 6–8 minutes, or until they’re heated through and edges are crisp. Avoid microwaving if possible—it softens the breadsticks and takes away their golden texture.

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rolling pin
• Baking sheet with parchment paper
• Pastry brush

FAQs (People Also Ask)

What is the best cheese for cheesy breadsticks?
Mozzarella is the classic choice for its gooey melt, but combining it with Parmesan adds flavor and golden crispness. You can also add provolone or cheddar for more depth.

Can I use store-bought pizza dough for cheesy breadsticks?
Absolutely! Store-bought dough works great if you’re short on time. Just roll it out, top with garlic butter and cheese, and bake as directed.

How do I make breadsticks crispy?
Bake them on a high heat (425°F), don’t overload them with cheese, and bake until the edges are golden brown. A preheated baking stone also helps.

Can I freeze cheesy breadsticks?
Yes! Let them cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze. Reheat in a hot oven to bring back the crisp and gooey cheese.

How long does homemade cheesy breadsticks dough need to rise?
This quick yeast dough needs about 30–45 minutes to double in size, which gives it just enough time to get fluffy and soft when baked.

What makes homemade cheesy breadsticks taste better than store-bought?
Fresh garlic, real butter, and your favorite blend of cheeses baked into a golden crust—you get way more flavor control and satisfaction making them from scratch.

External Links

• Is Cheese Bad for You? Benefits, Risks, Nutrition Facts
• How to Freeze and Thaw Bread

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Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks

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Mark Anthony

These homemade cheesy breadsticks are soft, buttery, and loaded with melted mozzarella and garlic flavor. Perfect for dipping or enjoying straight from the tray, they’re a quick, crowd-pleasing side made with easy dough and baked to golden, cheesy perfection.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings 12 pieces

Calories 210 kcal

Ingredients

  

• 1 ¼ cups warm water about 110°F
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast 1 packet
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional
• Fresh parsley for garnish optional

Instructions

 

• Activate the yeast: In a large mixing bowl, stir warm water and sugar together. Sprinkle in the yeast and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
• Make the dough: Add flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5–6 minutes until smooth and elastic.
• Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 30–45 minutes or until doubled.
• Preheat and prep: Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
• Shape and top: Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about 10×14 inches). Transfer to the baking sheet. Brush with melted butter mixed with minced garlic. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional Italian seasoning.
• Bake: Bake for 18–22 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden.
• Slice and garnish: Let cool for 5 minutes, then slice into breadsticks. Garnish with parsley if desired.

Notes

Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks – Helpful Tips

Cooking Tips & Techniques
Use pizza dough (store-bought or homemade) that’s been rested at room temperature for 30 minutes — it’s easier to stretch and won’t snap back.
Brush the dough with a mix of melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian herbs before adding cheese for flavor-packed bites.
Use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan for stretchy texture and salty sharpness.
For crispy edges, bake directly on a preheated baking stone or sheet.
Cut into breadstick strips after baking to keep all that gooey cheese intact.

Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with classic marinara, ranch dressing, or garlic butter on the side for dipping.
Great as a game day snack, pizza night appetizer, or a cheesy side for soups and pasta.
Add fresh parsley or red pepper flakes for a pop of color and kick.
Pair with a Caesar salad or tomato basil soup for a full, satisfying meal.

Make-Ahead & Storage
Make-Ahead: Prepare the dough and cheese topping ahead of time. Store separately and assemble just before baking.
Refrigerator: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze after baking. Let them cool, wrap tightly, and store for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven or air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes for the crispiest texture.

Tasty Variations to Try
Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños before baking.
Stuffed Crust Style: Roll small cheese sticks into the edges of your dough for a melty surprise.
Herbed Twist: Mix chopped rosemary or basil into the dough or topping.
Cheddar & Chive: Swap mozzarella for sharp cheddar and sprinkle with fresh chives before baking.
Gluten-Free Option: Use a gluten-free pizza dough and ensure your cheese blend is GF-certified.

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Conclusion

There’s just something deeply satisfying about pulling a tray of homemade cheesy breadsticks out of the oven. The smell of garlic and butter fills the kitchen, the cheese is bubbling, and that first bite—soft, cheesy, golden perfection—is always the best. Whether I’m making them as a snack, a side dish, or just because I need a bite of comfort, these breadsticks never disappoint.

I’ve made these for family pizza nights, served them at casual get-togethers, and even brought them to potlucks. Every time, they disappear fast and leave everyone asking for the recipe. That’s the beauty of a dish like this—it feels familiar but tastes elevated, thanks to just a few simple, homemade touches.

So if you’re looking for a recipe that’s easy, fun, and wildly satisfying, give these cheesy breadsticks a try. You’ll never look at frozen breadsticks the same way again. And when you do bake them, share the love—include me in your post, tag me, or shoot me a message. I want to see how cheesy you get!

Happy baking!