Hello, food lovers! If you’re looking for a quick and delicious snack, appetizer, or side dish, look no further than Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks. These golden, cheesy delights are perfect for any occasion, from game nights to cozy family dinners. Let’s dive into this simple yet flavorful recipe that will become a household favorite.
Introduction
Breadsticks are a classic treat, but when you add garlic butter, mozzarella cheese, and a hint of parmesan, they become irresistible. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite pasta or enjoying them as a standalone snack, these breadsticks are guaranteed to impress. Made with convenient refrigerated pizza dough, this recipe saves time without compromising on flavor. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a batch of warm, cheesy breadsticks ready to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
To make these Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks, you’ll need:
- A tube refrigerated pizza crust
- A tsp melted butter
- 1 crushed garlic clove
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (Feel free to add more!)
- 1 tsp parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano leaves (optional)
These simple ingredients combine to create a dish that’s both flavorful and satisfying. You can customize it to suit your preferences, whether by adding extra cheese or experimenting with herbs like basil or thyme.
How to Make Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Making Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks is quick and straightforward. Follow these steps to achieve perfect breadsticks every time:
Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 425°F (220°C). Preheating ensures even baking and a golden crust.
Prepare the Pizza Crust
Spread the refrigerated pizza crust onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. The parchment prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.
Prepare the Garlic Butter
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter and crushed garlic until well combined. This simple mixture is the secret to that classic garlic bread flavor.
Spread the Garlic Butter
Using a pastry brush or the back of a spoon, evenly spread the garlic butter mixture over the entire surface of the pizza crust. Be sure to coat the edges for maximum flavor.
Add Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the dough, followed by the parmesan cheese. For those who love a cheesy punch, don’t hesitate to add an extra handful of mozzarella.
Optional: Add Oregano
For added aroma and flavor, sprinkle dried oregano leaves evenly over the cheese. This step is optional but highly recommended for a touch of herbaceous goodness.
Cut the Dough
Before baking, use a pizza cutter or a large knife to cut the cheese-covered pizza crust into 16 equal rectangles. This makes it easier to separate the breadsticks after baking.
Bake
Place the baking tray in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 12 minutes. Keep an eye on the breadsticks—they’re ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the crust are slightly golden.
Serve
Remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. Then, cut along the pre-cut lines before serving. Enjoy them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, like marinara, ranch, or garlic butter.
Helpful Tips
- Extra Crispy Edges: If you prefer your breadsticks with extra crispy edges, brush a little olive oil along the edges of the crust before baking.
- Customizable Flavors: Experiment with additional toppings like crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil, or even crumbled bacon for unique variations.
- Cheese Options: While mozzarella and parmesan are classics, you can use a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack, cheddar, or provolone for different flavors.
- Refrigerated Dough: Ensure the dough is at room temperature before rolling it out. This prevents tearing and allows for easier spreading.
Cooking Tips
- Use Fresh Garlic: Freshly crushed garlic provides a more robust flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Even Cheese Distribution: Spread the cheese evenly to ensure each breadstick gets a deliciously gooey topping.
- Keep an Eye on the Oven: Since oven temperatures can vary, check the breadsticks a minute or two early to avoid over-baking.
Serving Suggestions
These Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve them alongside a hearty lasagna, a bowl of creamy tomato soup, or a fresh Caesar salad. They also make a great addition to party spreads or as an appetizer for gatherings. For dipping sauces, try marinara, ranch dressing, or a garlic aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a look at the nutritional content of these Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks:
- Calories: 180 per breadstick
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 320mg
- Potassium: 80mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Vitamin A: 6%
- Vitamin C: 1%
- Calcium: 10%
- Iron: 6%
These breadsticks are a satisfying treat that balances cheesy indulgence with homemade goodness.
Storage and Leftovers
Refrigerate: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Reheat them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness and melt the cheese.
Leftover breadsticks also make an excellent base for quick mini pizzas. Add a spoonful of marinara, extra cheese, and your favorite toppings before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the breadsticks up to the point of adding the cheese, then cover the tray with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When ready to bake, add the cheese and follow the baking instructions.
Can I use homemade dough instead of refrigerated pizza crust?
Absolutely. Homemade dough works beautifully for this recipe. Just roll it out to the desired thickness and proceed as directed.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Use a gluten-free pizza crust and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
What’s the best way to cut the dough?
A pizza cutter works best for creating even rectangles, but a sharp knife can also do the trick.
Related Recipes
If you love Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks, you might enjoy these recipes too:
- White Chocolate Cranberry Oatmeal Cookies
- the Ultimate Apple Cake Recipe!
- Mom’s Best Cake
- Chicken and Avocado Enchiladas in Creamy Avocado Sauce
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy and delicious recipe for Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks. Whether you’re hosting a party, making a quick appetizer, or adding something special to your dinner table, these breadsticks are sure to be a hit. Give this recipe a try and share the love with family and friends. Enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!