If you’re craving a savory, cheesy snack that’s perfect for dipping or just devouring on its own, homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks are the way to go. Soft, buttery, and smothered in a garlicky, cheesy topping, these breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food. Whether you’re serving them as a side dish for pasta night, a tasty snack, or as an appetizer at your next gathering, these cheesy garlic breadsticks will have everyone asking for more. Best of all, they’re super easy to make with a few simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry.
Here’s how to make the most delicious homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks:
Ingredients:
- For the dough:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the garlic butter topping:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp dried basil
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dough:
- In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Create a small well in the center, then pour in the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir with a spoon until a dough begins to form.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. Preheat the Oven:
- While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Shape the Dough:
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release the air. Roll it out into a rectangle (or desired shape) about 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. Place it on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping:
- In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), oregano, and basil. Stir until the garlic is well distributed.
5. Assemble the Breadsticks:
- Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the surface of the dough, making sure to cover it evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top.
6. Bake:
- Bake the cheesy garlic breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
7. Cut and Serve:
- Once done, remove from the oven and let cool for a couple of minutes before slicing into strips or squares.
- For an extra kick, sprinkle with crushed red pepper flakes or fresh parsley for garnish.
Tips for Perfect Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks:
- Dough: If you want extra fluffy breadsticks, let the dough rise for a bit longer than the recommended time. If you’re in a rush, you can also use store-bought pizza dough.
- Cheese Variations: You can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile.
- Garlic Butter: If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, use fresh garlic or increase the amount of garlic powder. You can also add a dash of Italian seasoning or thyme for a unique twist.
Enjoy these homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks fresh out of the oven for a cheesy, garlicky, and utterly irresistible snack!
