Hey y’all! If you’ve been on the hunt for the perfect snack or party appetizer, look no further than these Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks. They’re buttery, garlicky, and topped with gooey melted cheese, making them a hit for any occasion whether it’s game night or a cozy family dinner. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s super easy and quick to make, perfect for last-minute gatherings.
- The breadsticks are soft on the inside and crispy on the outside.
- They’re versatile and pair well with a variety of dips.
- These breadsticks are kid-friendly and a family favorite.
- You can customize the toppings to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- 1 cup warm water (110°F)
- 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large bowl, mix the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it’s frothy.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture and stir until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm area for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll the dough into a rectangle and cut it into 12 breadsticks. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 5: Add the Toppings
Brush the breadsticks with melted butter, then sprinkle garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. Serve warm.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend. Learn more about gluten-free baking here.
- If you don’t have Italian seasoning, a mix of oregano and basil works great.
- For extra crispy edges, try brushing the breadsticks with olive oil instead of butter.
Variations
- Spicy Cheesy Breadsticks: Add crushed red pepper flakes to the cheese before baking.
- Herb and Cheese Breadsticks: Use a mix of fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme.
- Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: Substitute mozzarella with Parmesan cheese for a different flavor.
Required Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking sheet
- Parchment paper
- Rolling pin
- Pastry brush
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them fresh longer, place them in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven to restore their crispiness.
Suggested Pairings
These breadsticks are delicious on their own but also pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy cheese dip. They’re the perfect side to any Italian meal, such as pasta or lasagna.
Pro Tips
- For a glossy finish, brush the breadsticks with egg wash before baking. Find more baking tips here.
- Let the dough rise in a slightly warm oven with the light on for faster results.
- Use a pizza cutter to easily shape the dough into uniform breadsticks.
FAQ
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but it may result in a denser texture. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour for a lighter breadstick.
How do I make the breadsticks softer?
Brush them with melted butter right after baking to keep them soft.
What if I don’t have mozzarella cheese?
Feel free to substitute with any melting cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack.