These homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are soft, buttery, loaded with melted mozzarella and Parmesan, and brushed with a flavorful garlic butter. They’re perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side for pizza, pasta, or soup.

Prep Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rise)
Cook Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes
Servings: 8 breadsticks

Ingredients

For the Dough

• 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water (105–110°F / 40–43°C)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt

For the Garlic Butter

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Toppings

• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Extra parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Dough

1. In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. In a large bowl, mix the flour and salt.
3. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.

2. Prepare the Breadsticks

1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Line a baking sheet or pizza pan with parchment paper.
3. Roll the dough into a rectangle about 10 × 14 inches (25 × 35 cm).

3. Add the Toppings

1. Mix the melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and parsley.
2. Brush the garlic butter evenly over the dough.
3. Sprinkle with the mozzarella, then the Parmesan, and add red pepper flakes if using.

4. Bake

Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are golden brown.

5. Slice and Serve

• Let the bread cool for 2–3 minutes.
• Slice into breadsticks using a pizza cutter.
• Garnish with extra parsley and serve warm.

Optional Variations

• Add cooked bacon bits before baking.
• Use a blend of mozzarella, provolone, and cheddar.
• Sprinkle with everything bagel seasoning.
• Top with sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Finish with a drizzle of hot honey after baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• Marinara sauce
• Ranch dressing
• Garlic aioli
• Alfredo sauce
• Tomato soup or your favorite pasta

Approximate Nutrition (Per Breadstick)

• Calories: 260
• Protein: 11 g
• Carbohydrates: 24 g
• Fat: 13 g

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Wrap tightly in foil or a freezer-safe bag.
• Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes or air fry at 325°F (160°C) for 3–4 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Breadsticks

• Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and stretch.
• Don’t overbake—the breadsticks should be lightly golden with soft, chewy centers.
• Brush with a little extra garlic butter immediately after baking for even more flavor.
• Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley just before serving for a restaurant-style finish.