Name: Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 12
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups warm water; 2 teaspoons active dry yeast; 1 teaspoon sugar; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 teaspoons salt; 4 tablespoons olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh parsley, chopped

Jump to Recipe·5.1 from 17 reviews

Imagine pulling apart a batch of Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks straight from your own oven, their golden edges crackling as they give way to a gooey, aromatic, garlicky cheese center. Each bite captures that unbeatable fresh-baked bread aroma, flecks of melted mozzarella, and a hint of parsley—this is comfort food that can turn an ordinary meal into something unforgettable. Whether you’re serving them as a standout appetizer, an indulgent snack, or alongside your favorite Italian dishes, these breadsticks deliver a savory, satisfying experience loved by kids and adults alike.

Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

For Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks, these key ingredients work together to create a perfect balance of tender dough, gooey cheesy pull, and irresistible garlic flavor. Every element plays an important role, from the humble yeast to the finishing sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Warm water (1 ½ cups): Activates the yeast and brings moisture and structure to the dough.
Active dry yeast (2 teaspoons): The secret to that signature pillowy rise, ensuring your breadsticks are soft and airy.
Sugar (1 teaspoon): Feeds the yeast and helps create a subtle sweetness that balances the garlic.
All-purpose flour (4 cups): The backbone of the dough, creating a chewy yet tender texture.
Salt (2 teaspoons): Brightens all the flavors and keeps the breadsticks from tasting flat.
Olive oil (4 tablespoons): Adds rich flavor and keeps the dough supple and soft.
Garlic, minced (4 cloves): The star flavor; fresh garlic infuses every bite with aroma and zest.
Butter, melted (2 tablespoons): Makes the crust golden and enhances the garlic spreadability.
Shredded mozzarella cheese (2 cups): Brings that stretchy, gooey cheese layer everyone craves.
Grated Parmesan cheese (¼ cup): Kicks up the flavor and creates a beautiful, salty finish.
Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of color and freshness that sets your breadsticks apart.

How to Make Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining warm water, yeast, and sugar in a small bowl. Stir gently, then let this mixture sit for a few minutes until you see a lovely froth develop on top. This means the yeast is alive and ready to make your dough grow light and airy—a crucial step for deliciously fluffy breadsticks!

Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour and salt so the salt’s evenly distributed. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture along with the olive oil. Mix everything together until it starts to form a dough, then roll up your sleeves and knead it by hand (or with a dough hook) until it’s smooth, elastic, and only slightly tacky. Once kneaded, place it back in the bowl, cover, and let it rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size. This patience will be well rewarded.

Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter

While your dough is doing its magic, combine minced garlic with the melted butter in a bowl. This garlic butter mixture is about to transform your breadsticks into Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks with unbelievably rich and savory flavor in every bite.

Step 4: Shape and Top the Breadsticks

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. On a floured surface, roll your dough into a wide rectangle—aim for roughly ½-inch thickness so you get plump, bakery-style sticks. Brush the entire surface generously with garlic butter, then blanket it with the shredded mozzarella cheese. This is the point where your kitchen starts to smell absolutely incredible!

Step 5: Roll, Slice, and Arrange

Now, roll up the dough gently, starting from the long side, similar to a cinnamon roll. Cut the roll into 12 even pieces, and arrange the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet with some space between them. Each one will expand in the oven, promising a satisfying, cheesy pull with every stick!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Slide your baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake for about 15–20 minutes. Watch for a golden top, bubbly cheese, and edges that are just starting to brown. The moment you open the oven door, you’ll understand why Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are such a showstopper.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Right out of the oven, brush each breadstick with any remaining garlic butter, then finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a dusting of chopped fresh parsley. Serve the breadsticks warm and watch them disappear!

How to Serve Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Garnishes

For that wow-factor, a final flourish of grated Parmesan and fresh parsley will add brightness and depth. Consider a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for those who love a mild kick, or a drizzle of good olive oil for even more flavor.

Side Dishes

Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks make an ideal companion for classic tomato soup, creamy pasta, or a crisp green salad. They also shine alongside hearty dishes like lasagna or roasted veggies, making every meal a little more special—a true crowd-pleaser on pizza night!

Creative Ways to Present

Stack them high on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of marinara or ranch for dipping, or arrange them in a bread basket lined with a checkered cloth for that homemade feel. For parties, try cutting the breadsticks smaller, skewering them, and serving with toothpicks for a fun, shareable snack.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have extras (trust me, it’s rare!), wrap your breadsticks tightly in foil or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and prevents them from drying out.

Freezing

To freeze, let your Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks cool completely, then arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once solid, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to two months and make a quick, tasty snack.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, simply reheat breadsticks in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5–8 minutes, or until heated through. For a softer texture, wrap them in foil before baking. You can also revive smaller portions in the microwave for 10–15 seconds each.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! Just swap it in measure for measure, but you can skip the blooming step—add it directly to your flour, and proceed as usual. The rise should be just as fluffy and delicious.

What if I don’t have mozzarella—can I use another cheese?

Definitely. While mozzarella gives you that classic stretchy cheese pull, a blend with Monterey Jack, provolone, or even cheddar can give your Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks extra personality and flavor.

How can I make the breadsticks extra garlicky?

Increase the garlic to taste, or add a dash of garlic powder to the dough as it mixes. You can even add roasted garlic for a deeper, mellower garlic flavor throughout your breadsticks.

Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes! Make the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come back to room temperature before rolling out and baking. This can even develop a better flavor in the dough.

Are these breadsticks vegan?

As written, the recipe contains butter, cheese, and Parmesan. Swap those for plant-based alternatives and you’ll have excellent vegan Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks everyone can enjoy!

Final Thoughts

I truly believe Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are one of the most inviting, comforting treats you can bake from scratch—the aroma, the gooey cheese, the crackly crust, and the homemade love in every bite are simply irresistible. Give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised if it instantly becomes a go-to favorite at your table!