Cheese Breadsticks Recipe

Golden, cheesy, and impossible to resist, Cheese Breadsticks have a special way of stealing the show at any gathering. They’re the ultimate comfort food: a warm, soft pizza dough base smothered in gooey mozzarella, sharp Parmesan, and fragrant herbs, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether they’re the main event for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing sidekick at your next party, these breadsticks will disappear faster than you can say “just one more.” Grab your dipping sauce and get ready to savor every stretchy, cheesy bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You only need a handful of everyday ingredients to whip up a batch of Cheese Breadsticks, but each one plays a crucial role. The dough provides the perfect base, cheeses melt into bubbling deliciousness, and the aromatic herbs bring everything to life. Gather these to guarantee a crave-worthy result every single time.

• Pizza dough: Whether you use homemade or store-bought, this is your foundation for the perfect texture and chew.
• Butter (melted): Adds richness and helps the breadsticks turn beautifully golden while infusing flavor.
• Garlic powder: Essential for that classic savory aroma—think of it as the secret ingredient in every irresistible bite.
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into a stretchy, gooey layer that’s the signature of cheesy breadsticks.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Packs a punch of salty, nutty flavor that balances and intensifies the cheesiness.
• Dried basil: Brings a hint of herby brightness and color to the topping.
• Dried oregano: A classic pizza herb, it rounds out the flavor profile with a savory touch.
• Salt (optional): A light sprinkle sharpens all the other flavors—add to taste.

How to Make Cheese Breadsticks

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Lightly grease a baking sheet, pizza stone, or pizza pan—whichever you have on hand. This quick step ensures your Cheese Breadsticks won’t stick and helps the crust get golden and crisp.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Roll or gently stretch your pizza dough into a 12×10-inch rectangle. Don’t stress about perfection; rustic edges just add character! You want a thickness that’s not paper-thin, but not too dense, so your breadsticks bake up airy and tender.

Step 3: Make and Brush the Garlic Butter

Stir together the melted butter and garlic powder in a small bowl. Then, generously brush this mixture over your shaped dough. This not only enhances the flavor but gives you that crave-worthy garlicky aroma when they bake.

Step 4: Add Cheeses and Herbs

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, then top with grated Parmesan. Finish with a generous dusting of dried basil, oregano, and a pinch of salt if you’d like. Every bite should have a perfect mix of cheese and herb.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Slide your prepared dough into the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the crust is puffed and golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. Keep an eye on it towards the end—it goes from perfect to overdone quickly!

Step 6: Slice and Serve

Let the Cheese Breadsticks cool for a few minutes, then slice them into strips. They’re best enjoyed warm, with a side of pizza sauce (or your favorite dip) for dunking.

How to Serve Cheese Breadsticks

Garnishes

A final flourish can really make your Cheese Breadsticks sing! Sprinkle with extra Parmesan, a shower of fresh chopped parsley, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little kick. These touches add eye appeal and a burst of fresh flavor that guests adore.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cheese Breadsticks with a crisp green salad or a steaming bowl of tomato soup for a satisfying meal. They’re also the perfect sidekick for pasta dishes or any Italian-inspired dinner. The breadsticks soak up sauces beautifully—don’t be shy about using them as a vehicle for extra flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For parties, arrange your Cheese Breadsticks in a basket lined with a colorful napkin or stand them upright in a tall mason jar for a fun, shareable centerpiece. If you’re serving kids, try cutting them into fun shapes or dunk-sized strips for little hands—everyone will love the playful presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Cheese Breadsticks cool completely before wrapping them tightly in foil or placing in an airtight container. Store them in the refrigerator for up to three days—they reheat beautifully and keep their cheesy goodness!

Freezing

Cheese Breadsticks also freeze well for longer storage. Place cooled breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container with parchment between layers. Freeze for up to two months. When a craving hits, just pull out as many as you need.

Reheating

To bring leftover Cheese Breadsticks back to life, bake them on a sheet at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes until warmed through. You can also pop them in the air fryer for a quick, crispy finish. Avoid the microwave if you can—it tends to make them a bit too chewy.

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough for Cheese Breadsticks?

Absolutely! Homemade dough gives you control over flavor and texture. Just make sure it’s soft and stretchy, so you get those pillowy breadsticks everyone loves.

What cheese works best besides mozzarella?

While mozzarella is classic for that stretchy melt, you can experiment with brick cheese, provolone, or a bit of sharp cheddar for a different cheesy flavor profile. Just keep the ratio mostly mozzarella for best melting.

How do I keep Cheese Breadsticks from getting soggy?

Make sure your oven is fully preheated and your baking surface is hot before adding the dough. Don’t overload with cheese, and bake until both the cheese and crust have a light golden color for the ideal texture.

Can I make Cheese Breadsticks gluten-free?

Yes, just swap the regular pizza dough for your favorite gluten-free pizza dough! Keep an eye on baking time, as gluten-free doughs can brown more quickly.

Are these Cheese Breadsticks good for dipping?

They’re legendary dippers! Warm marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even pesto pair perfectly. The thick, cheesy layer soaks up sauces without falling apart—serious snack-time bliss.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready for a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, it’s time to get cozy with a batch of Cheese Breadsticks. Each bite is cheesy, garlicky bliss, and making them at home is surprisingly simple. Don’t be surprised when they disappear in minutes—these breadsticks have a way of bringing everyone back for seconds and thirds! Give them a try and watch them become a new favorite at your table.

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