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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.