There’s nothing quite as comforting as warm, cheesy garlic breadsticks fresh out of the oven. Whether you're serving them alongside a hearty meal, using them to scoop up your favorite dips, or just enjoying them as a savory snack, cheesy garlic breadsticks are a crowd-pleaser every time. These homemade breadsticks are easy to make and come together with simple ingredients you probably already have on hand. They are a perfect combination of crispy edges, soft centers, and rich garlic flavor, all topped off with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Let’s dive into how you can make these irresistible breadsticks at home.
Preheat Oven
First, preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your breadsticks bake evenly and achieve a golden-brown, crispy exterior.
Prepare Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and finely minced garlic. Mixing the garlic into the butter ensures that each bite of your breadsticks is infused with a rich garlic flavor. Set this mixture aside for brushing onto the dough.
Unroll the Dough
Unroll the pizza dough onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. The parchment paper helps to prevent sticking and makes for easy cleanup later. Spread the dough out evenly, but be careful not to stretch it too thin—this will help create that perfect, soft interior once baked.
Brush with Garlic Butter
Using a pastry brush (or even the back of a spoon), generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the surface of the dough. Make sure to cover the entire surface so that every inch of your breadsticks is flavored with that buttery garlic goodness.
Add Cheese and Spices
Next, sprinkle the grated mozzarella and parmesan cheese evenly over the dough. These cheeses will melt into a gooey, delicious layer that is hard to resist. After the cheese, add the dried basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste. The basil gives the breadsticks a nice herbaceous kick, while the salt and pepper enhance the overall flavor profile.
Cut into Strips
Using a pizza cutter, slice the dough into breadstick shapes. Cut lengthwise into about 7 long strips, and then crosswise into 3 sections to form smaller, individual breadsticks. While cutting, keep the dough intact—there's no need to separate the strips just yet. This helps maintain the structure of the breadsticks as they bake.
Bake
Place the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the breadsticks turn lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overbake—remember, you're aiming for a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy inside.
Recut and Serve
Once baked to perfection, recut along the lines to separate the breadsticks. Serve them warm, preferably with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. The tangy tomato sauce pairs beautifully with the cheesy, garlicky flavors of the breadsticks, creating a taste sensation that is sure to be a hit at your table.
For an extra indulgent touch, consider doubling the cheese for a thicker, meltier topping. You can even experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone to add more depth to the flavor. Additionally, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley or a dash of red pepper flakes after baking for an added pop of color and a hint of heat.
Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal or snack. They are versatile, easy to make, and can be prepared in under 20 minutes. Whether you're enjoying them on their own, paired with a dip, or served alongside a big bowl of pasta, these breadsticks are bound to be a favorite. Plus, with just a few simple tweaks like adding extra cheese or herbs, you can customize them to suit your taste. So next time you’re craving something savory, give these breadsticks a try—they're cheesy, garlicky, and downright irresistible!