Description

These homemade cheesy breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food, featuring a soft, buttery bread base topped with a generous layer of melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Perfect for snacking, serving as an appetizer, or as a side to pizza night, these breadsticks are easy to make and irresistibly cheesy.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Breadstick Dough

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
1 tsp sugar
3/4 cup warm water (about 110°F)
1 tbsp olive oil
3/4 tsp salt

Cheese Topping

1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp melted butter
1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (optional)

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Instructions

Proof the Yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Mix gently and let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is frothy and bubbly, indicating the yeast is activated.
Make the Dough: Add the olive oil, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until a shaggy dough forms, then knead on a floured surface for about 7-8 minutes until soft and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for about 5 minutes.
First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
Shape the Breadsticks: Punch down the risen dough and transfer to a lightly floured surface. Roll into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Transfer the dough to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Add Toppings: Brush the dough rectangle with melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with garlic powder, mozzarella, Parmesan, and optional Italian herbs.
Second Rise: Loosely cover the dough and let rise for another 15-20 minutes while you preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
Bake: Bake for 13-16 minutes, or until the crust is golden and the cheese is bubbling and lightly browned.
Serve: Remove from oven and cool for a few minutes. Slice into breadsticks and serve warm, ideally with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Notes

For an extra garlicky flavor, mince a clove of garlic into the melted butter for brushing.
To make ahead, prepare the dough and refrigerate after the first rise for up to 24 hours.
Leftover breadsticks can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their crispness.
Feel free to substitute other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for different flavors.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 breadstick
Calories: 145
Sugar: 1g
Sodium: 235mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 2.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 2g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 6g
Cholesterol: 11mg