Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Soft, fluffy, and loaded with melted cheese, these Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are the definition of comfort food. The hint of garlic brings a rich, savory flavor, while the lightly crisp edges and gooey cheese topping make them impossible to resist. Whether served as a side, a snack, or a party favorite, they’re easy enough to whip up whenever the craving strikes.
Fresh out of the oven, each bite is warm, cheesy, and full of garlicky goodness. Even better, they store well, so you can enjoy leftovers later in the day or throughout the week.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Rise Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 2 hours
Course: Side, Snack, Appetizer
Cuisine: American-Italian
Servings: 8
Ingredients
For the Bread
| Quantity | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1½ cups + 2 tbsp | All-purpose flour | — |
| 1 tbsp | Dry instant yeast | — |
| 3 tbsp | Unsalted butter | Cubed, room temperature |
| ½ tbsp | Granulated sugar | — |
| 1 cup | Lukewarm milk | — |
| 1 tsp | Salt | — |
| As needed | Lukewarm water | For kneading |
| — | Cornmeal | For dusting |
For the Topping
| Quantity | Ingredient | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2 cloves | Garlic | Minced |
| 2 tbsp | Unsalted butter | Softened, room temperature |
| 1 tsp | Italian herb seasoning | — |
| 1⅓ cups | Mozzarella cheese | Grated |
| ½ cup | Parmesan cheese | Grated |
| — | Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Handful | Fresh parsley | Chopped |
Instructions
1. Activate the yeast
In a bowl, mix the lukewarm milk, yeast, 2 tablespoons of flour, and sugar. Let it rest for about 10 minutes until it becomes foamy.
2. Prepare the dough
In a large bowl, combine the flour and butter, working it together until the mixture is crumbly. Stir in the salt, then add the yeast mixture. Knead the dough, adding a little lukewarm water as needed, until it becomes smooth and elastic. Place in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and allow it to rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
3. Make the topping
In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic, softened butter, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper.
4. Shape the dough
Sprinkle cornmeal over a baking sheet. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5–8 minutes. Roll it into a rectangle about 1 inch thick, transfer to the baking sheet, and gently press to fit. Cover and let it rest for 15–20 minutes.
5. Bake the base
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the dough for 15 minutes.
6. Add topping and finish baking
Remove from the oven, spread the garlic butter mixture over the surface, and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan. Increase the oven temperature to 450°F (230°C) and bake for another 8–10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve
Cut into breadsticks, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
Notes
-
Make ahead: Prepare the dough through step 4, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Let it come to room temperature before baking.
-
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.
-
Cheese variations: Try adding provolone, fontina, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
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Serving ideas: Pair with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a warm bowl of soup.
Nutrition (per serving, estimate)
Nutrition values are estimates based on the listed ingredients and serving count. Actual values vary with brands, cuts, and portion sizes.
