Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Soft, flavorful, and cheesy homemade breadsticks that are surprisingly easy to make. Perfect as a side for pasta, pizza, or just snacking, they feature a warm, yeasty dough topped with melted mozzarella, Parmesan, and savory garlic.
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Spoon or spatula
- Rolling Pin
- Knife or Pizza Cutter
- Baking sheet
Ingredients
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 packet Active dry yeast (2 1/4 teaspoons)
- 3/4 cup Warm water (105-115°F / 40-46°C)
- 1 tbsp Sugar
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tsp Garlic powder plus more for topping
- 1 cup Shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp Fresh parsley chopped, optional, for garnish
- Melted butter for brushing
Instructions
- Step 1: Activate Yeast. In a large mixing bowl, pour warm water. Sprinkle yeast and sugar over top. Stir gently to combine. Let sit for about 5 minutes until foamy and bubbly.
- Step 2: Combine Ingredients. To the yeast mixture, add flour, olive oil, and salt. Stir with a spoon or spatula until a shaggy dough forms.
- Step 3: Knead Dough. Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Step 4: First Rise. Lightly grease the mixing bowl. Place dough ball inside and turn to coat. Cover snugly with a towel or plastic wrap. Let rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 5: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan. While dough rises, preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease or line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 6: Shape Breadsticks. Gently punch down risen dough. Transfer to floured surface. Roll into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into strips (about 1 inch wide) using a knife or pizza cutter.
- Step 7: Top Breadsticks. Carefully transfer strips to the greased baking sheet, leaving space between. Brush tops generously with melted butter. Sprinkle with more garlic powder, shredded mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Step 8: Second Rise. Loosely cover breadsticks on the sheet with a towel. Let rest and rise for another 20 minutes.
- Step 9: Bake. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, until golden brown and cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Step 10: Serve. Carefully remove from oven. Let cool on sheet for a minute or two. Transfer to a platter. Sprinkle with fresh parsley (if using). Serve warm.
Notes
The total recipe time includes two rising periods (approx. 1 hour 20 mins total) in addition to active prep and baking.
Substitutions & Additions: Experiment with different cheeses like provolone, white cheddar, or smoked Gouda. Stir dried Italian herbs into the dough or sprinkle on top. Add red pepper flakes for heat. Make a simple garlic butter by stirring minced fresh garlic (1-2 cloves) or more garlic powder into melted butter before brushing. Try adding everything bagel seasoning!
Tips for Success: Ensure your yeast is active by checking for foaminess in Step 1. Use warm water (105-115°F). Knead dough thoroughly (5-7 mins) for structure. Find a warm spot for rising. Don't use too much flour when kneading/rolling. The second rise is important for fluffiness. You can make the dough ahead: after the first rise (Step 4), shape, place on the sheet, cover, and refrigerate up to 24 hours. Bring to room temp for 15-20 mins before baking.
Storage: Store cooled breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for 4-5 days. Reheat wrapped in foil in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 mins, or in a toaster oven/air fryer.