There's nothing quite like the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cheesy garlic breadsticks wafting through the kitchen. With their golden, crispy edges, gooey melted cheese, and a rich garlic butter spread, these breadsticks are the perfect side dish for pasta night, a cozy snack, or even a party appetizer.

I first fell in love with cheesy garlic breadsticks when I was looking for a quick and easy way to elevate our homemade pizza nights. What started as a simple experiment with pizza dough and garlic butter quickly became a family favorite that disappears from the plate within minutes!

Why You'll Love These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Get ready to add this recipe to your go-to list because these cheesy garlic breadsticks are simply irresistible!

First off, they’re incredibly easy to make. Whether you use store-bought dough or make your own from scratch, this recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. No special skills are required!

They're also budget-friendly. With just a handful of common pantry staples like flour, butter, garlic, and cheese, you can whip up a batch without breaking the bank.

The flavor is out of this world. Between the buttery garlic spread, the perfect blend of melted cheeses, and the soft yet crispy texture of the breadsticks, every bite is packed with mouthwatering goodness.

Finally, they’re perfect for any occasion. Serve them alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping, pair them with your favorite pasta dish, or enjoy them as a standalone snack.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these cheesy garlic breadsticks is in the simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a key role in making these breadsticks absolutely delicious.

Pizza dough serves as the base for these breadsticks. You can use store-bought dough for convenience, or if you have time, making homemade dough adds an extra level of freshness and flavor.

Butter and garlic form the heart of the flavor. Melted butter mixed with minced garlic (or garlic powder for a milder taste) creates a rich and aromatic spread that soaks into the breadsticks as they bake.

Cheese is the star of the show! A blend of mozzarella and Parmesan works best. Mozzarella gives you that gooey, stretchy texture, while Parmesan adds a sharp, salty bite.

Italian seasoning and parsley add the perfect finishing touch. These herbs enhance the garlic butter and cheese flavors, making the breadsticks even more irresistible.

If you have a pizza stone or baking sheet, that’s all the equipment you’ll need. A rolling pin and pizza cutter will also come in handy for shaping and slicing the breadsticks before baking.

How To Make These Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Making these cheesy garlic breadsticks is simple, and the results are well worth it! Let’s go step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). If using a pizza stone, place it in the oven while it preheats. This helps create a crispier crust.

Next, roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface. Aim for a rectangle about ¼-inch thick. If the dough shrinks back, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling again.

In a small bowl, mix together melted butter and minced garlic. Brush this flavorful mixture evenly over the surface of the dough, making sure to cover every inch for maximum garlic flavor.

Sprinkle a generous layer of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the dough, followed by a light dusting of Italian seasoning and parsley. This combination creates a golden, cheesy topping that’s simply irresistible.

Transfer the prepared dough onto a baking sheet or preheated pizza stone and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.

Once out of the oven, let the breadsticks cool for a minute, then use a pizza cutter to slice them into strips. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping!

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), these cheesy garlic breadsticks store well. Keep them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate for up to 4 days.

To freeze, place the cooled breadsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about an hour. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 3 months.

For reheating, pop them in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or use an air fryer for a quick crisp-up. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about these cheesy garlic breadsticks is how easy they are to customize!

For a spicier version, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the cheese before baking. It adds a nice kick without overpowering the garlic flavor.

Want a gluten-free option? Use a gluten-free pizza dough. Many store-bought versions are available, or you can make your own from scratch.

If you're a fan of extra cheesy breadsticks, try adding some cheddar or provolone to the mix. A blend of cheeses creates an even richer flavor profile.

For a healthier twist, use whole wheat pizza dough and swap butter for olive oil. You’ll still get that delicious garlic flavor with a slightly nuttier, heartier texture.

Love garlic? Double the garlic! Add roasted garlic to the butter mixture for an even deeper, caramelized garlic flavor.

No matter how you customize them, these cheesy garlic breadsticks are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy every cheesy, garlicky bite!