Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of cheesy garlic breadsticks baking in the oven. Warm, golden-brown dough infused with butter and garlic, topped with gooey, melted cheese—it’s pure comfort in every bite. These homemade breadsticks are perfect as a side dish, appetizer, or even a late-night snack.

this Recipe

I started making these when my family craved the restaurant-style breadsticks but wanted something fresher and more customizable. What began as a weekend experiment has now turned into a staple in our house. Once you try these, you’ll never go back to store-bought!

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Get ready to meet your new favorite homemade indulgence. These cheesy garlic breadsticks are everything you need in a quick, satisfying snack.

First, they’re incredibly easy to make. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can have warm, cheesy breadsticks fresh out of the oven in no time. No complicated techniques—just simple, delicious results.

They’re also budget-friendly. Forget expensive takeout or frozen options; these homemade breadsticks cost just a fraction of what you'd pay at a restaurant.

One of the best parts? They’re customizable. Whether you prefer extra cheese, a bit of spice, or even a gluten-free version, this recipe can easily be adapted to your tastes.

And let’s not forget the irresistible flavor. Buttery, garlicky, and loaded with cheese—each bite is soft on the inside and crisp on the edges, making them absolutely crave-worthy.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of these cheesy garlic breadsticks comes from simple, high-quality ingredients that work together to create the perfect bite.

Flour is the foundation of the dough. I recommend using all-purpose flour for a light and fluffy texture. If you want a chewier consistency, bread flour works just as well.

Yeast is what gives these breadsticks their soft rise. I use instant yeast for a quicker prep time, but active dry yeast works too—just be sure to proof it before adding it to the dough.

Garlic and butter are the stars of the show. Melted butter mixed with freshly minced garlic (or garlic powder for convenience) creates the signature rich and savory flavor that makes these breadsticks so addictive.

Mozzarella cheese is the perfect topping. It melts beautifully, creating that stretchy, gooey layer we all love. For extra flavor, add some parmesan or a sprinkle of Italian seasoning.

No special equipment is required! A basic rolling pin, baking sheet, and mixing bowl are all you need to make these delicious breadsticks from scratch.

How To Make These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Making these cheesy garlic breadsticks is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps to get the perfect homemade version every time.

Start by preparing the dough. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for about five minutes until foamy. This step ensures the yeast is active and ready to give your breadsticks the perfect rise.

Once the yeast is ready, add flour, salt, and a bit of olive oil. Mix until the dough starts to come together, then knead on a lightly floured surface for about five minutes until smooth and elastic. Cover the dough and let it rest for about 30 minutes until it doubles in size.

Roll out the dough into a rectangle and place it on a greased baking sheet. Melt the butter and mix it with minced garlic, then brush it generously over the surface of the dough. This is where all that amazing garlic flavor soaks in!

Next, sprinkle a generous layer of shredded mozzarella cheese all over the dough. If you love an extra cheesy bite, add parmesan or a bit of sharp cheddar for more depth of flavor. For a little kick, a dash of red pepper flakes works wonders.

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. The cheese should be fully melted and slightly crisp on the edges, creating the perfect balance of textures.

Once out of the oven, let the breadsticks cool for a minute or two before slicing. Enjoy them warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or just on their own!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), these cheesy garlic breadsticks store beautifully. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate for up to five days.

For longer storage, freeze them in a sealed container or freezer bag for up to three months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 8 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the breadsticks chewy instead of crisp.

Variations and Substitutions

These cheesy garlic breadsticks are endlessly versatile! Here are a few ideas to switch things up:

If you're looking for a whole wheat version, simply swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This adds a heartier texture while keeping the breadsticks soft and chewy.

Want a spicy kick? Add some crushed red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture before brushing it on the dough. A bit of cayenne pepper also works great for extra heat.

For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. Be sure to check your yeast and other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

If you're a cheese lover, try mixing different types of cheese. A blend of mozzarella, cheddar, and provolone adds depth and richness to the breadsticks.

No yeast on hand? Try a quick-bread version using self-rising flour and Greek yogurt to make an easy, no-rise dough. It won't be quite as fluffy, but it's still delicious and fast!

With so many ways to make them your own, these cheesy garlic breadsticks will quickly become a household favorite. Try them today and enjoy restaurant-quality flavor right from your kitchen!

Print