Cheesy garlic breadsticks are an irresistible treat, perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a comforting appetizer, a snack for movie night, or a side to accompany your main dish, these breadsticks are sure to please. Made from simple ingredients, these breadsticks feature a delicious blend of mozzarella, Parmesan, and aromatic garlic, topped with buttery goodness. They’re easy to make, and the result is a batch of golden, gooey breadsticks that are impossible to resist.
The Perfect Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Garlic breadsticks have long been a favorite on many tables. From pizzerias to home kitchens, the combination of garlic, cheese, and soft, fluffy dough always hits the spot. This homemade version brings together the comforting flavors of Italian-inspired ingredients with the convenience of using pizza dough, whether store-bought or homemade.
In this recipe, the dough is brushed with a mixture of melted butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Topped with a generous helping of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, these breadsticks bake to perfection, offering a crispy exterior with a soft and cheesy interior. You can make them ahead of time and enjoy them fresh from the oven, paired with marinara sauce or eaten on their own.
Ingredients for Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
This recipe requires only a few ingredients that are easily accessible, and many of them are likely already in your kitchen:
- 1 lb pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Marinara sauce for dipping (optional)
The pizza dough is the base, which can be easily found at your local grocery store. The garlic butter topping is made with just three ingredients—unsalted butter, garlic, and Italian seasoning—providing rich flavor. The mozzarella cheese gives it a creamy, stretchy texture, while the Parmesan adds a bit of sharpness. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of color and freshness to finish it off.
Homemade Pizza Dough (Optional)
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to make the pizza dough from scratch, here’s a simple recipe to follow:
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
- 3/4 cup warm water
- Mix the yeast and warm water in a bowl, let it sit for about 5 minutes to activate.
- Add the flour, sugar, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined and knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
- Cover the dough and let it rise for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
- Once risen, punch the dough down, and it’s ready to roll out and use for the cheesy garlic breadsticks.
Directions and Preparation Method
Now that you’ve gathered all the ingredients, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of making these cheesy garlic breadsticks:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Before you begin, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that the breadsticks will bake evenly and turn golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it. This prevents the dough from sticking to the surface and makes cleanup easier.
Step 3: Roll Out the Dough
Take your 1 lb of pizza dough and roll it out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle or circle, approximately 1/4 inch thick. Once you’ve rolled it out, transfer it to the prepared baking sheet. Make sure it’s spread evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Mixture
In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp melted butter, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1/2 tsp Italian seasoning. Stir until everything is well-mixed. The buttery garlic mixture is the key to getting that flavorful, aromatic garlic breadsticks aroma.
Step 5: Brush the Dough with Garlic Butter
Using a brush or a spoon, generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the rolled-out dough. Be sure to cover every inch of the dough, as this will infuse the breadsticks with delicious flavors.
Step 6: Add the Cheese
After brushing the dough with garlic butter, it’s time to sprinkle on the cheese. Evenly spread 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese over the dough, followed by 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. The combination of these two cheeses will create a gooey, cheesy layer that melts beautifully.
Step 7: Bake the Breadsticks
Place the prepared dough in the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the breadsticks turn golden brown. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to prevent over-baking.
Step 8: Slice and Serve
Once baked to perfection, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute before slicing. Cut the bread into sticks using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
For an added touch of flavor and color, sprinkle 1 tbsp fresh parsley over the top of the breadsticks (optional). Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, if desired. These cheesy garlic breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, with that irresistible gooey cheese pull in every bite!
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Yes, store-bought pizza dough is an excellent option for making these breadsticks quickly and easily. It saves you time and ensures the dough has a perfect texture for the breadsticks.
2. Can I freeze these cheesy garlic breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze both the dough and the baked breadsticks. If freezing the dough, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. When freezing baked breadsticks, allow them to cool completely before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
To reheat, bake the frozen breadsticks at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
3. Can I use different cheeses?
Absolutely! You can customize the cheese blend according to your preference. Cheddar, gouda, or even a mix of different Italian cheeses can be substituted for the mozzarella and Parmesan. Feel free to experiment!
4. How do I make garlic breadsticks with no butter?
If you’re looking for a healthier or dairy-free version, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative. The garlic and Italian seasoning will still provide plenty of flavor.
5. How do I make the garlic flavor stronger?
To increase the garlic flavor, you can add an extra clove or two of garlic to the butter mixture or even sprinkle some garlic powder on top of the breadsticks before baking. If you prefer, you can also use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
6. Can I add toppings to the breadsticks?
Yes, you can easily make these breadsticks your own by adding toppings such as sliced olives, caramelized onions, or even pepperoni for a more substantial snack. Just sprinkle the toppings over the cheese before baking.
Conclusion
Homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food—simple to prepare and packed with flavor. The golden, gooey mozzarella, paired with the fragrant garlic butter and Italian seasoning, makes these breadsticks a must-try. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack, these breadsticks are sure to become a family favorite.
The best part? You don’t need to be a seasoned baker to make them. With just a few basic ingredients, a little time, and love, you can whip up a batch of these cheesy garlic breadsticks that are perfect for any occasion. Serve them warm with marinara sauce or enjoy them on their own. Either way, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!