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My Family's Favorite Cheesy Breadsticks
Let me share these incredible breadsticks that never last more than 10 minutes in my house. The smell of melting cheese and garlic fills my kitchen every time I make them. They're crispy on the outside, perfectly gooey inside, and so addictive you'll want to double the batch. After years of testing, I've perfected this recipe that brings everyone running to the kitchen.
Why These Are Simply Amazing
What I love most about these breadsticks is how easy they are to switch up. Sometimes I use all mozzarella, other times I mix in sharp cheddar when I'm craving extra flavor. My kids help make them on pizza night and my teenagers can even whip up a batch on their own. They're perfect for dunking in warm marinara or just enjoying on their own while watching movies.
Essential Ingredients
- Pizza Dough: Fresh store-bought works great or use your favorite homemade recipe if you have time. Let it come to room temperature for easier handling.
- Cheeses: Get blocks of both mozzarella and parmesan to grate yourself the flavor is so much better than pre-shredded.
- Butter and Garlic: Good quality salted butter and fresh garlic cloves make our flavor base.
- Seasonings: Italian herb blend adds that classic taste.
- Optional Add-ins: Fresh jalapeños for heat or basil pesto for an extra flavor boost.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare Your Kitchen
- Start by heating your oven to 450°F. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper while you wait. Take your dough out of the fridge to warm up and use this time to grate all your cheese.
- Prepare the Garlic Butter
- Melt your butter and mix in freshly minced garlic. Let this sit while you work with the dough so the flavors can meld together beautifully.
- Shape Your Dough
- Dust your counter with a light coating of flour. Gently roll the dough into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick keeping the shape as even as possible.
- Add Your Toppings
- Brush the entire surface generously with your garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle evenly with Italian herbs then layer on your freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan.
- Cut and Transfer
- Using a sharp pizza wheel cut your dough into even strips. Carefully transfer each strip to your prepared baking sheet making sure to leave space between them.
- Bake to Golden Perfection
- Place in your hot oven and bake for 12-15 minutes watching carefully near the end. Look for golden brown edges and bubbling melted cheese. Let them cool slightly before serving they'll be incredibly hot!
Tips From My Kitchen
Always grate your cheese fresh it really does melt better than the bagged stuff. Try baking the plain dough for a few minutes first if you love extra crispy breadsticks. Sometimes I fold the dough over the cheese to make stuffed versions that are absolutely incredible. When reheating pop them in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes they'll taste fresh baked again.
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Fun Ways to Mix It Up
Fresh herbs like rosemary make these taste fancy. My husband loves when I add crushed red pepper for heat. The kids go crazy when I make dessert versions with cinnamon sugar. For pizza night I stuff them with mozzarella and pepperoni they disappear in seconds.
Worth Every Cheesy Bite
These breadsticks have become our family tradition. They show up at every gathering movie night and sometimes just because we're craving comfort food. The best part is watching everyone's faces light up when they pull apart that first warm cheesy stick. Make these once and I promise they'll become your go to recipe too.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why let dough rise?
Rising develops flavor and creates soft, fluffy texture.
- → Can I use different cheese?
Yes, try cheddar or pepper jack for variety.
- → How do I know water temperature?
Use thermometer or water that feels warm but not hot to touch.
- → Can I make these ahead?
Best served fresh but keep 2 days in airtight container.
- → Why press cheese into dough?
Helps cheese stay in place during baking.