Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks Guide

Featured in: Melted, Gooey, and Cheesy Goodness

Enjoy golden, cheesy breadsticks made from scratch with a soft interior and a crust brushed in garlic butter. After letting the dough rise for maximum fluffiness, a blend of mozzarella and herbs goes on top before a quick bake. These breadsticks are delicious warm, served with dipping sauces like marinara. Tips include freezing leftovers or adding spice with jalapeños. Change up the cheese for a personalized touch—Gruyère, cheddar, or Munster all boost the flavor. Serve freshly baked for best texture and taste.

Chef with a smile, ready to cook and serve.
Updated on Tue, 17 Jun 2025 15:28:44 GMT
A cheese and herb pizza on a paper towel. Pin it
A cheese and herb pizza on a paper towel. | yummygusto.com

Nothing beats the aroma of freshly baked homemade cheesy breadsticks with stretchy mozzarella on top and golden edges straight from the oven. These breadsticks were the answer to my family’s endless pizza night requests and now they’re the star that disappears fastest at every gathering.

The first time I made these I realized how bakery breadsticks had nothing on homemade ones. My kids now skip delivery and ask for this cheesy version every Friday.

Ingredients

  • Active dry yeast: gives bread its rise Look for fresh packets that have not expired for best lift
  • Warm water: activates the yeast Make sure it is not too hot or too cold
  • Sugar: feeds the yeast for proper bubbling just a small amount ensures fluffy dough
  • All-purpose flour: yields light but sturdy breadsticks Unbleached flour works best for a gentle chew
  • Salt: brings out the dough and cheese flavors Fine sea salt dissolves easily
  • Olive oil: softens the dough and adds subtle richness Go for extra virgin for deeper taste
  • Shredded mozzarella: melts into perfect cheesy pull Use whole milk mozzarella for best flavor and stretch
  • Cheddar or Gruyère cheese: adds sharpness and depth Gruyere is my favorite swap when guests come over
  • Unsalted butter: gives the breadsticks a rich finish Choose high quality butter for best results
  • Fresh garlic: infuses the crust with aroma and punch
  • Italian seasoning: brings that classic pizza shop flavor
  • Red pepper flakes or flaky salt: optional but boosts flavor and adds a little kick
  • Select a block of cheese and grate it yourself: for creamier melting and avoid pre-shredded brands with anti caking agents

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Yeast Mixture:
Combine warm water sugar and yeast in a large bowl Stir well and let stand for about ten minutes until you see a thick foamy layer on top This shows your yeast is activated
Make the Dough:
Add flour salt and olive oil to the bowl Use a sturdy spoon or your hands to mix until a rough dough forms Move it onto a floured surface and knead for five to seven minutes until the dough is completely smooth and slightly tacky
First Rise:
Return the dough to a clean bowl cover with a towel and place in a warm spot Let it rest for forty five to sixty minutes until doubled in size Press a fingertip gently into the dough It should leave a soft indentation
Prepare Baking Surface:
Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F Line a baking sheet with parchment paper This keeps the cheese from sticking and ensures crisp edges
Shape the Breadsticks:
Roll the dough into a rectangle about nine by thirteen inches Place it on the prepared baking sheet Spread the edges evenly to avoid thin spots
Flavor and Cheese Topping:
Brush the rectangle generously with melted butter then scatter minced garlic and Italian seasoning on top Spread mozzarella evenly then add cheddar or Gruyère if you like Sprinkle some red pepper flakes or flaky salt for a surprise
Bake:
Transfer the baking sheet to the hot oven Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes Watch the cheese carefully When it is bubbly and starting to turn golden and the edges are deep brown remove from oven
Finish and Slice:
Brush warm breadsticks with a little extra butter for sheen and flavor Cut with a sharp knife or pizza cutter while still warm Serve straight away with dipping sauce of your choice
A plate of cheese sticks. Pin it
A plate of cheese sticks. | yummygusto.com

My favorite part is how the melted butter soaks into the crust and the garlic perfumes the air The memory of my little one watching the cheese stretch between breadsticks still makes me laugh

Storage Tips

Store cooled breadsticks in an airtight bag for up to three days at room temperature They stay surprisingly soft To freeze arrange in a single layer then transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to two months For best results reheat at 350 degrees F straight from frozen until heated through

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are short on mozzarella try Monterey Jack or Munster cheese for meltiness Want a nutty punch swap out cheddar for Gruyère or even a touch of Parmesan If fresh garlic is too strong for your taste use roasted garlic or a little garlic powder

Serving Suggestions

Serve stacks of warm breadsticks with homemade marinara ranch or creamy garlic sauce They are perfect for dipping alongside soup or as a hearty side for pasta At parties cut them thinner for sharing and pair with a salad for a light meal

Cultural and Historical Context

Breadsticks have roots in Italian cuisine where they are called grissini and are usually crisp This soft cheesy version is a comforting American twist that plays up gooey cheese and rich dough Each bite tastes like pizza night and family movie marathons

A white cheese and black pepper pizza. Pin it
A white cheese and black pepper pizza. | yummygusto.com

I learned the hard way never skip fresh garlic and butter at the end You will always have fans coming back for another warm breadstick

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of cheese works best for these breadsticks?

Mozzarella is traditional, but cheddar, Gruyère, or Munster add extra flavor and richness.

→ Can I freeze the breadsticks for later?

Yes, baked breadsticks freeze well. Reheat at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through.

→ How do I ensure the breadsticks are fluffy?

Allow the dough to rise in a warm spot until doubled. Full rising time is key for softness.

→ What sauces pair well with these breadsticks?

Marinara, ranch, or garlic sauce are all delicious options for dipping warm breadsticks.

→ How can I make them spicy?

Add chopped jalapeños or sprinkle red pepper flakes on top before baking for extra heat.

→ Can I prepare the dough in advance?

Yes, the dough can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping.

Homemade Cheesy Breadsticks

Soft, cheesy breadsticks topped with garlic butter and herbs, ideal for sharing and pairing with favorite sauces.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
15 Minutes
Total Time
35 Minutes
By: Sandra

Category: Cheesy Delights

Difficulty: Easy

Cuisine: Italian-American

Yield: 10 Servings (Approximately 10 breadsticks)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

→ Dough

01 2.25 teaspoons active dry yeast
02 240 millilitres warm water (about 43°C)
03 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
04 320 grams all-purpose flour
05 1 teaspoon fine salt
06 2 tablespoons olive oil

→ Topping

07 180 grams shredded mozzarella cheese
08 30 grams cheddar or Gruyère cheese (optional)
09 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
10 2 cloves garlic, minced
11 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 Red pepper flakes or flaky salt (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Step 01

Combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast in a large mixing bowl. Allow the mixture to rest for 5 to 10 minutes, or until a foamy layer develops on the surface.

Step 02

Incorporate the all-purpose flour, salt, and olive oil into the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then knead by hand or with a dough hook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 03

Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and let the dough rise in a warm area for 45 to 60 minutes, or until doubled in volume.

Step 04

Preheat the oven to 220°C. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 05

Roll the risen dough out on a lightly floured surface to a rectangle approximately 23 by 33 centimetres. Carefully transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet.

Step 06

Brush the dough generously with melted butter. Evenly distribute the minced garlic and Italian seasoning over the surface. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and cheddar or Gruyère if using. Add optional red pepper flakes or flaky salt to taste.

Step 07

Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and the breadsticks' edges are golden brown.

Step 08

If desired, brush freshly baked breadsticks with additional melted butter. Slice into portions and serve warm with your choice of marinara, ranch, or garlic dipping sauce.

Notes

  1. Let the dough rise fully before baking to ensure soft, fluffy breadsticks.
  2. For a spicy variation, incorporate sliced jalapeños or extra red pepper flakes before baking.
  3. Baked breadsticks can be frozen and reheated in the oven at 175°C for 10 minutes.
  4. Experiment with different cheese blends such as Munster or Gruyère for unique flavour profiles.

Tools You'll Need

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Dough hook or clean hands for kneading
  • Clean kitchen towel
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Rolling pin
  • Pastry brush
  • Sharp knife or pizza cutter

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains gluten
  • Contains dairy

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 180
  • Total Fat: 7 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 22 g
  • Protein: 7 g