Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks Recipe

There's something magical about the smell of warm, garlicky bread baking in the oven—especially when it's topped with golden, bubbly cheese. These Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are soft, buttery, and packed with flavor in every bite.

I first made these on a rainy afternoon when we were craving something cozy but didn’t want to order out. What started as a side dish quickly became the star of the show. They’re easy to make, perfect for dipping, and always a hit with both kids and adults.

Let’s dive into what makes these breadsticks so irresistible.

Why You'll Love These Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Get ready to meet your new favorite side dish. These cheesy garlic breadsticks check every box—comforting, flavorful, and simple enough for even beginner bakers.

One of the best parts? They’re quick and easy. The dough comes together with just a handful of pantry staples, and the rising time is short, so you can have these ready in just over an hour from start to finish.

They’re also incredibly budget-friendly. Flour, yeast, cheese, and garlic are all affordable, and you probably already have most of them in your kitchen right now. There’s no need for a grocery run or fancy ingredients.

And let’s not forget how crowd-pleasing they are. Whether you’re serving these alongside pasta, pizza, or soup, they disappear fast. They also make a perfect snack for game day or casual get-togethers.

Want to customize them? Go for it. These breadsticks are endlessly adaptable—try different cheeses, herbs, or even a little spice to make them your own.

Now let’s take a closer look at what goes into these delicious breadsticks.

Ingredients Notes

These cheesy garlic breadsticks are made with simple ingredients, but each one plays a key role in creating the perfect texture and flavor.

All-purpose flour forms the base of the dough. It gives the breadsticks their soft, chewy structure while still being light enough to let them rise beautifully. You can also mix in a little bread flour if you want a slightly chewier bite.

Instant yeast is what makes the dough rise quickly and efficiently. I like using instant or rapid-rise yeast because it eliminates the need to proof it first—just mix it right into the flour. Make sure your yeast is fresh for the best results.

Mozzarella cheese is the star of the show when it comes to that signature stretchy, gooey top layer. I prefer using freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and flavor, but pre-shredded will work in a pinch.

Garlic and butter are what give these breadsticks their bold, savory flavor. I melt butter with minced garlic and brush it generously over the dough before and after baking. It soaks into the crust and makes every bite extra flavorful.

You’ll also need a baking sheet or pizza pan, parchment paper, and a rolling pin to shape the dough evenly. A pastry brush comes in handy for spreading the garlic butter.

How To Make These Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Making these breadsticks from scratch is easier than you might think. The dough comes together in just a few minutes, and after a short rise, it’s ready to bake.

Start by mixing warm water, sugar, and yeast in a large bowl. Let it sit for a few minutes until it’s foamy—this is how you know your yeast is active. Then stir in the flour, salt, and a bit of olive oil. Knead the dough by hand or with a stand mixer until it’s smooth and elastic.

Cover the bowl with a clean towel and let the dough rise in a warm place for about 30 to 40 minutes. It should double in size and feel soft and airy when you press it gently with your fingers.

Once the dough is ready, punch it down and transfer it to a parchment-lined baking sheet. Roll it out into a rectangle about half an inch thick. Don’t worry about making it perfect—rustic edges give it character.

Melt butter in a small saucepan with freshly minced garlic and a pinch of salt. Brush half of the garlic butter over the rolled-out dough. Then sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. You can also add a little parmesan or Italian seasoning if you’d like.

Bake the breadsticks in a preheated 425°F oven for about 12 to 15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling and the edges are golden brown. Remove them from the oven and immediately brush with the remaining garlic butter.

Let them cool slightly before slicing into strips. The cheese will be stretchy, the bread tender, and the garlic butter irresistible.

From start to finish, you’re looking at just over an hour—including rise time. Totally worth it for fresh, homemade breadsticks that taste better than takeout.

Storage Options

These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but you can definitely save the extras for later. Just let them cool completely before storing.

For short-term storage, place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you'd like to keep them a little longer, store them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze, wrap individual breadsticks in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen or let them thaw overnight in the fridge first.

When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. A quick toast in the air fryer also works wonders for crisping them up.

Variations and Substitutions

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easy it is to customize. Whether you’re working with dietary needs or just want to mix things up, these breadsticks are super adaptable.

To make them gluten-free, simply swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free baking blend. Just make sure it includes a binder like xanthan gum for structure.

For a different flavor twist, try using a blend of cheeses like sharp cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a little kick. A sprinkle of crumbled feta or goat cheese on top before baking adds a tangy contrast that’s totally crave-worthy.

You can also turn up the flavor by adding herbs. Mix dried oregano, basil, or rosemary into the dough or sprinkle them over the cheese for an herby finish. A little crushed red pepper gives it a spicy edge that pairs well with marinara.

Don’t have butter? Olive oil works too. It gives the breadsticks a slightly different, more Mediterranean flavor and still helps crisp up the edges beautifully.

Once you’ve made these once or twice, you’ll feel confident riffing on the recipe. It’s the kind of dish that invites creativity—and keeps everyone coming back for more.

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