Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: A Savory Treat

Homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food. With a golden, crispy exterior and a soft, cheesy interior, these breadsticks are perfect for any occasion. The combination of garlic and cheese creates a mouthwatering aroma and flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. This recipe is straightforward and yields breadsticks that are better than any you’d get from a restaurant.

Ingredients

For the Dough:

• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (one packet)
• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F or 45°C)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 1/2 to 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Garlic Butter:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (or 2 teaspoons garlic powder)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Cheese Topping:

• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the active dry yeast over the top and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 1/2 cups of flour and 1 teaspoon of salt. Make a well in the center.
3. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Pour the yeast mixture and olive oil into the well. Stir with a wooden spoon or spatula until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add more flour, a tablespoon at a time.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until it becomes smooth and elastic.
5. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Garlic Butter:

1. Mix Ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic (or garlic powder), chopped parsley, dried oregano, and salt. Stir well and set aside.

3. Assemble the Breadsticks:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.
2. Roll Out the Dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a floured surface and roll it into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick.
3. Transfer to Baking Sheet: Transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared baking sheet. Using a knife or a pizza cutter, cut the dough into breadstick shapes.
4. Add Garlic Butter: Brush the entire surface of the dough with the prepared garlic butter mixture, making sure to get it into the cuts.
5. Add Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the dough.

4. Bake the Breadsticks:

1. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove from the oven and let the breadsticks cool for a few minutes before serving.

5. Serve:

1. Slice and Serve: If you didn’t pre-cut the breadsticks, cut them along the pre-marked lines now. Serve warm, and enjoy with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips and Variations

• Herb Variations: Add different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or basil to the garlic butter for a variety of flavors.
• Cheese Variations: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, Parmesan, or a blend for a unique flavor profile.
• Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of garlic to your taste. You can also use roasted garlic for a milder, sweeter garlic flavor.
• Freezing: You can freeze the breadsticks before baking. Simply assemble them, freeze on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Conclusion

Homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks are a delicious, versatile treat that’s sure to please everyone at your table. With a soft, chewy interior and a cheesy, garlic-infused crust, these breadsticks make the perfect accompaniment to any meal or a tasty snack on their own. Follow this guide, and you’ll have a batch of irresistible breadsticks that are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Enjoy making and savoring these delightful cheesy garlic breadsticks!

Feel free to adjust the recipe according to your preferences and dietary needs. Happy baking!