Crispy Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

These breadsticks are a perfect appetizer or side dish. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with cheesy goodness.

Ingredients:

  • For the Dough:
    • 1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
    • 1 tablespoon sugar
    • 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
    • 2 1/2 to 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • For the Topping:
    • 1/4 cup melted butter
    • 1-2 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
    • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or a blend of your favorite cheeses)
    • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder(optional)
    • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)
    • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Activate the Yeast:
    • In a large bowl, combine the warm water and sugar.
    • Sprinkle the yeast over the water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes, or until foamy.
  2. Make the Dough:
    • Add 2 1/2 cups of flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture.
    • Mix with a wooden spoon or a dough hook on a stand mixer until a shaggy dough forms.
    • Gradually add the remaining flour, if needed, until the dough is smooth and slightly sticky.
    • Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
    • Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, turning to coat.
    • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
  3. Prepare the Topping:
    • Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
    • In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic (if using).
    • In a separate bowl, combine the mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, garlic powder(if using), red pepper flakes(if using), salt, and pepper.
  4. Shape the Breadsticks:
    • Once the dough has doubled, punch it down and turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
    • Roll the dough into a rectangle, about 12×16 inches.
    • Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the dough.
    • Sprinkle the cheese mixture evenly over the garlic butter.
    • Cut the dough into strips about 1 inch wide.
  5. Bake:
    • Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
    • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
    • Let them cool slightly before serving.

Tips and Variations:

  • For extra crispy breadsticks, brush them with a little extra melted butter before baking.
  • Add your favorite toppings, such as pepperoni, cooked vegetables, or different cheeses.
  • Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or your favorite dipping sauce.
  • You can brush the top of the breadsticks with more garlic butter as soon as they come out of the oven for extra flavor.
  • For a softer breadstick, bake for a shorter amount of time.

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