Mediterranean Quick Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
These Mediterranean Quick Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are warm, cheesy, and perfect for dipping. The dough comes together fast with yeast and beer for a light rise, while garlic, butter, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan give them that irresistible flavor. They’re an easy side dish for pasta, soups, or salads, and they pair beautifully with marinara or fried tomato sauce for dipping.
Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Rest Time: 30 minutes (for dough)
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: About 10–12 breadsticks
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
¾ tsp salt
1 tsp yeast (instant or active dry)
¾ cup beer (room temperature, any light style works)
2 tbsp butter, softened
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup grated Parmesan
Fried tomato sauce (optional, for dipping)
Instructions
Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and yeast. Slowly pour in the beer and stir until a soft dough forms. Knead lightly for 3–4 minutes until smooth.
Let Dough Rest:
Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes to rise slightly.
Prepare Garlic Butter:
In a small bowl, mix softened butter with minced garlic. Set aside.
Shape the Breadsticks:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 9×13 inches). Place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Top with Cheese & Butter:
Spread the garlic butter evenly over the dough. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
Bake:
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden and the cheese is bubbly.
Slice & Serve:
Let cool slightly, then cut into strips. Serve warm with fried tomato sauce (or marinara) for dipping.
Tips & Variations
Cheese swaps: Use a mix of mozzarella and provolone, cheddar, or even feta for a sharper bite.
Herb boost: Add dried oregano, basil, or parsley to the garlic butter for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Extra crispy: Brush the edges of the dough with olive oil before baking for a golden finish.
Low-effort shortcut: Use store-bought pizza dough instead of making the beer-based dough.
Make it spicy: Sprinkle red chili flakes over the cheese before baking for heat.
Dip options: Pair with marinara, fried tomato sauce, tzatziki, or even hummus for a Mediterranean twist.
Q&A
Q: Can I use self-rising flour instead of yeast?
A: Yes. If using self-rising flour, skip the yeast and reduce the salt slightly. The texture will be more biscuit-like but still tasty.
Q: What type of beer works best?
A: A light lager or pale ale works well, as it adds mild flavor without overpowering the breadsticks.
Q: Can I make them ahead of time?
A: They’re best served warm out of the oven, but you can bake them earlier, store covered, and reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes.
Q: Is there a non-alcohol option?
A: Yes, you can substitute the beer with sparkling water or club soda for a similar light texture.
Nutrition
(per breadstick, approx. for 12)
Calories: 150
Protein: 6 g
Fat: 6 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 220 mg
(Values will vary depending on cheese choice and serving size.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Quick Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are the ultimate comfort snack. The beer-based dough makes them light yet flavorful, while garlic butter and gooey cheese bring a rich finish. They’re quick enough for weeknight dinners but tasty enough to serve at gatherings. Pair them with your favorite dip, and you’ve got a crowd-pleasing appetizer or side that disappears fast.