Ingredients:
For the Dough:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2 tsp sugar
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp salt
For the Garlic Butter:
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced (or 1 ½ tsp garlic powder)
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
- ½ tsp salt
For the Cheesy Topping:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning (optional)
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until frothy. This shows the yeast is active.
2. Make the Dough
Add olive oil, flour, and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together, then knead it on a floured surface for 7–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
3. Let it Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
4. Prepare the Garlic Butter
While the dough rises, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Set aside.
5. Shape the Breadsticks
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Roll out the dough into a large rectangle (about ½ inch thick). Transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza pan.
6. Brush & Add Cheese
Brush the dough generously with garlic butter.
Sprinkle mozzarella and parmesan evenly on top. Add a dash of Italian seasoning if you like.
7. Bake
Bake for 15–18 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
8. Slice and Serve
Let it cool for 5 minutes, then slice into breadstick strips. Brush lightly with any leftover garlic butter and sprinkle with extra parsley.
Serving Ideas:
Serve with:
- Marinara sauce for dipping
- Alfredo or ranch sauce
- Alongside pasta or soup
Tips for Perfect Breadsticks:
- For extra flavor, mix a little garlic powder directly into the dough.
- Add a sprinkle of cheddar for a sharper cheese flavor.
- To make it crispier, bake for 2 extra minutes under broil at the end.
Benefits:
- Homemade freshness: No preservatives or additives.
- Customizable: Choose your cheese blend or add herbs.
- Budget-friendly: Costs a fraction of restaurant garlic breadsticks.
In Short:
Soft, buttery, and loaded with gooey cheese — these garlic breadsticks are the perfect side for any meal or a snack on their own!
