Here’s a recipe for Breadsticks with Cheese and Garlic Made at Home:
Ingredients:
- 2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F/45°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano or Italian seasoning
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes, or until the mixture becomes foamy. - Make the dough:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and olive oil. Gradually add the yeast mixture, mixing until a dough forms. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. - Let the dough rise:
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size. - Prepare the garlic butter:
While the dough is rising, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried oregano or Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Set aside. - Shape the breadsticks:
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough out into a rectangle, about ½-inch thick. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, slice the dough into long strips, about 1 inch wide. Twist each strip slightly and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. - Add cheese and bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the breadsticks generously with the garlic butter mixture, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. - Serve:
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and brush them with any remaining garlic butter. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm, alongside marinara sauce or your favorite dip.
Tips:
- Dough consistency: If the dough feels too sticky, add a little more flour; if it’s too dry, add a tablespoon of water at a time.
- Extra cheesy: For a richer flavor, you can mix some garlic powder into the dough and use a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
- Freezing: You can freeze the unbaked breadsticks. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
These homemade breadsticks are perfect for pairing with pasta, soup, or just enjoying as a snack!