Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks

These soft Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks are my go-to trick for making any meal feel special in almost no time. With a quick pizza dough and simple cheesy topping, these breadsticks turn out golden and irresistible. They make pasta night feel like an event and disappear in minutes whenever I serve them.

I first whipped these up on a whim for a family movie night and now they are requested more often than delivery pizza. Warm cheesy breadsticks on a chilly evening just cannot be beat.

Ingredients

• Homemade Pizza Crust: makes for chewy but tender breadsticks use a good quality recipe or store bought dough for ease
• Olive oil: keeps the dough from sticking and adds flavor use a fruity olive oil for best taste
• Butter melted: creates that rich flavor and softens the crust choose unsalted for control over saltiness
• Minced garlic: gives that savory punch fresh garlic is always best here
• Italian Seasoning: lends herbaceous flavor look for a blend with plenty of oregano and basil
• Salt: balances the cheese and dough opt for fine kosher salt for even distribution
• Shredded mozzarella: melts perfectly and brings the signature cheesy pull shred from a block for best results
• Shredded Parmesan: adds sharp nuttiness and depth pick a real wedge over pre-grated for maximum flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Dough:

Begin by placing a sheet of parchment paper on a large cutting board or counter top Dust it with flour before setting your pizza dough in the center Gently roll the dough into a fourteen by ten inch rectangle using a rolling pin If needed use your hands to stretch and shape the dough for even thickness

Prepare the Baking Sheet:

Take a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle two teaspoons of olive oil over the surface Rub the oil all over using your hands to ensure the dough will not stick Carefully peel the dough from the parchment paper and move it to the baking sheet Use your hands again to reshape it as needed keeping it to about fourteen by ten inches It will not fill the whole sheet

Top with Butter Garlic and Cheese:

In a small bowl stir together the melted butter and minced garlic Pour this mixture over the dough Use the back of a spoon or a knife to spread the butter evenly to every edge Sprinkle half the Italian seasoning and all the salt over the dough Next layer on all the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese finishing with the remaining Italian seasoning on top

Bake to Perfection:

Slide the tray onto the lowest rack of a five hundred degree oven Bake for ten minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden brown Remove and let the breadsticks rest for two minutes before slicing with a pizza cutter Cut into eighteen even strips for serving

Pin

The garlic is my favorite part of these breadsticks Not only does it fill the kitchen with an amazing smell but it brings everyone together at the table I love seeing my kids race to grab the cheesiest piece

Storage Tips

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat in a toaster oven or hot regular oven for a few minutes to restore crispiness Do not microwave or you will lose the golden edges

Ingredient Substitutions

No homemade dough Use store bought pizza dough or frozen bread dough for convenience Out of mozzarella Try Monterey Jack or part skim mozzarella for good melting You can skip the Parmesan but it really adds flavor so swap with Asiago if you have it

Serving Suggestions

Serve with warm marinara sauce for dipping They pair beautifully with classic Italian pastas like spaghetti and lasagna For a snack cut them into cubes and serve with soup or salad I have even packed leftovers for school lunches

Cultural Context

Breadsticks have deep Italian roots but American style cheesy breadsticks are pure comfort food They reflect the creativity of turning simple dough and cheese into something the whole family will crave I love how they remind me of childhood pizza nights and laughter around the table

Recipe FAQs

→ What kind of cheese works best for breadsticks?

Mozzarella provides a stretchy texture and mild flavor, while Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth. Combining both creates a flavorful, melty topping.

→ How can I make the crust extra crispy?

Baking at high heat (500°F) on a preheated baking sheet and brushing olive oil under the dough helps achieve a crisp bottom and golden edges.

→ What dipping sauces pair well with these breadsticks?

Classic marinara is a favorite, but garlic butter, ranch, or pesto make excellent alternatives for dipping.

→ Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

Yes, store-bought pizza dough works well and saves time. Just roll it out and follow the same topping and baking steps.

→ How should I store leftover breadsticks?

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a day or refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat to refresh texture.

→ How can I adjust the seasonings?

Customize the seasoning blend with extra herbs, crushed red pepper, or garlic powder to match your personal taste.