Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

These cheesy breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food – warm, soft, and loaded with gooey cheese. Perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or snack, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to disappear fast! Whether you’re dipping them in marinara sauce or enjoying them on their own, these breadsticks are a hit for any occasion.

Ingredients:

Dough:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup warm water (110°F)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Topping:

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons melted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dough:

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add warm water and olive oil, then mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Breadsticks:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Punch down the dough and roll it out into a rectangle about ½ inch thick on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
3. Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian herbs.
4. Evenly spread the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the dough.
5. For easy serving, use a pizza cutter to cut the dough into strips (about 1 inch wide).

3. Bake:

1. Bake for 12-15 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and the edges are golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before pulling the breadsticks apart.

4. Serve:

• Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

Notes:

• Yeast Tips: Instant yeast can be mixed directly into the dry ingredients. If using active dry yeast, activate it in warm water with sugar for 5 minutes before mixing.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge for an overnight rise.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, drizzle garlic butter over the breadsticks as soon as they come out of the oven.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
• For a crispier bottom, bake on a preheated pizza stone or cast-iron skillet.

Servings:

• This recipe makes about 12 breadsticks, depending on how thick you cut them.

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 210
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Protein: 8g
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 4.5g
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 380mg
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 1g

Benefits:

• Cheese: Good source of calcium and protein.
• Homemade Dough: Lower in preservatives compared to store-bought options.
• Versatility: Can be served as a snack, appetizer, or side dish.

Q/A:

Q: Can I use store-bought pizza dough?

A: Absolutely! Store-bought dough is a great shortcut. Just roll it out and follow the topping and baking instructions.

Q: Can I freeze the breadsticks?

A: Yes! Freeze baked breadsticks in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Q: What dipping sauces go well with cheesy breadsticks?

A: Marinara sauce, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or even a creamy Alfredo sauce are fantastic choices.

Q: Can I make these gluten-free?

A: Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains xanthan gum for best results.

These cheesy breadsticks are sure to be a hit at your next gathering or cozy night in. Enjoy the cheesy, garlicky goodness with your favorite dipping sauce!