If you’re craving something warm, comforting, and packed with melty, cheesy goodness, this Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe is here to brighten your day. These soft, golden breadsticks aren’t just your average side—they’re little pockets of gooey mozzarella wrapped in buttery, garlicky dough that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Whether you’re serving them for a crowd or indulging in a cozy night in, these breadsticks bring that perfect combination of savory flavor and irresistible texture that simply can’t be beat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe is easier than you might think. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color we all love.
- Refrigerated pizza dough or homemade dough: The soft, chewy base that holds all the cheesy goodness together.
- Mozzarella cheese sticks or shredded mozzarella: For that irresistible, stringy melt inside each breadstick.
- Butter, melted: Brushed on top to give the breadsticks a rich, silky finish.
- Garlic powder: Adds a warm, savory kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
- Italian seasoning: Brings in a blend of herbs that elevate the flavor to authentic Italian-American perfection.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a nutty, slightly salty crunch.
- Marinara sauce: For dipping, making each bite even more irresistible.
How to Make Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lining a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Next, roll out your pizza dough into a nice rectangular shape—this gives you the perfect canvas to create those cheesy pockets.
Step 2: Cut and Fill the Breadsticks
Slice the dough into 10 to 12 strips. Be generous with the size so you get a good amount of cheese inside each one. Then, lay a mozzarella stick or a pile of shredded cheese down the center of each strip. The key here is to make sure the cheese stays snug inside for that ooey-gooey magic.
Step 3: Seal the Edges
Fold the dough over the cheese and press the edges firmly to seal them tightly. This is a super important step because it keeps all the melty cheese from escaping as they bake.
Step 4: Add Flavor with Butter and Seasoning
Place your sealed breadsticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Now mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning, then brush this fragrant mixture all over the loaf. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds that beautiful finishing touch.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake the breadsticks for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they’re perfectly golden brown and irresistibly inviting. When you pull them from the oven, you’ll immediately know why this Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe is such a crowd-pleaser.
Step 6: Serve Warm with Marinara
Serve these beauties warm alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. The combination of the crunchy, buttery crust and the gooey cheese inside dipped into bright tomato sauce is simply unbeatable.
How to Serve Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can add a pop of color and a hint of spice that beautifully complements the rich cheese and buttery garlic flavors. Don’t forget a little extra Parmesan for those who want a bit more cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
These breadsticks are a fantastic side to your favorite pasta dishes like spaghetti or fettuccine Alfredo. They also pair perfectly with a fresh salad or a bowl of hearty soup, making any meal feel extra special.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange your Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks on a wooden serving board with small ramekins of marinara, ranch, and garlic butter sauce for dipping. For a fun party twist, serve them skewered with cubes of cheese and cherry tomatoes for a playful appetizer platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with some leftovers, no worries—they keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Just cover them tightly so the breadsticks stay soft and the cheese doesn’t dry out.
Freezing
You can freeze these breadsticks before baking by wrapping them individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to enjoy them, bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
To bring leftovers back to life, reheat the breadsticks in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. This keeps the crust crunchy and the cheese melted perfectly, almost as good as fresh from the oven.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese for this recipe?
Absolutely! While mozzarella is classic for its melty texture, you can mix in cheddar, provolone, or even pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just be mindful of melting qualities and flavor balance.
Is it okay to make these without butter?
Butter adds great flavor and helps create that golden crust, but you can brush the breadsticks with olive oil if you need a dairy-free option. The garlic and seasoning will still shine through.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?
The secret is to pinch the dough edges tightly and double-check the seal before baking. If you have any gaps, use a bit of water to help the dough stick together better.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegan cheese sticks and a dairy-free butter substitute to keep that cheesy, buttery flavor while making it vegan-friendly. Look for dough recipes that avoid eggs or dairy.
What’s a good alternative dipping sauce besides marinara?
Try ranch dressing, garlic butter sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo for a fun twist. Each brings a different flavor dimension to the Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe experience.
Final Thoughts
This Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe is one of those dishes that truly feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s simple to make, absolutely delicious, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. Next time you want a snack that’s cheesy, buttery, and downright addictive, give this recipe a try—you’ll be so glad you did.
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Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 10–12 breadsticks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Cheese Stuffed Breadsticks are soft, golden breadsticks filled with gooey melted mozzarella cheese and brushed with a flavorful buttery garlic seasoning. These easy-to-make breadsticks are perfect as an appetizer, snack, or side dish alongside pasta, making them a beloved crowd-pleaser at any gathering.
Ingredients
Dough
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough (or 1 lb homemade dough)
Filling
- 1½ cups mozzarella cheese sticks or shredded mozzarella
Topping
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and facilitate easy cleanup.
- Prepare Dough: Roll out the refrigerated pizza dough into a large rectangle on a lightly floured surface to an even thickness suitable for wrapping the cheese.
- Cut Dough Strips: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough rectangle into 10 to 12 equal strips to create individual breadsticks.
- Stuff with Cheese: Place a mozzarella stick or a line of shredded mozzarella down the center of each dough strip, ensuring you leave space on edges for sealing.
- Seal Edges: Fold the dough strips over the cheese lengthwise and pinch the edges firmly to completely seal in the cheese and prevent it from leaking during baking.
- Arrange on Pan: Position the sealed breadsticks seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart to allow for expansion.
- Prepare Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning, mixing well to create a flavorful brush-on topping.
- Brush Breadsticks: Generously brush the garlic butter mixture over the tops of the breadsticks for a rich, seasoned crust.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese evenly over each breadstick to add a slightly nutty, savory finish.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake the breadsticks for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn a beautiful golden brown and the cheese inside is melted.
- Serve Warm: Remove from oven and serve the breadsticks immediately warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- Ensure to seal the dough edges tightly to prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking.
- Using string cheese makes stuffing the breadsticks easier and tidier.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a spicy kick.
- These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven or air fryer to restore their crispness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
