These homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks are what dreams are made of—soft, buttery, garlicky bread loaded with golden, bubbly cheese on top. Whether you’re dipping them in marinara sauce or pairing them with pasta, these breadsticks are always a hit at the table. Imagine pulling apart warm, pillowy sticks with that irresistible cheese pull. Yep, that’s exactly what you’re in for.
They come together with simple pantry ingredients, but the result is anything but basic. Perfect for pizza night, game day, or just because you need a cheesy carb fix. And don’t worry, you don’t have to be a seasoned baker to get these right. Let’s walk through it all step-by-step!
What Kind of Cheese Should I Use for Cheesy Breadsticks?
While mozzarella is the classic go-to for that gooey cheese pull, I recommend mixing in a bit of provolone or cheddar for a richer flavor. If you want even more punch, add some grated Parmesan over the top before baking. The mix of melty and slightly sharp cheeses makes every bite layered and delicious.

Ingredients for the Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
- All-Purpose Flour: The base of the dough; provides structure and chew.
- Warm Water: Helps activate the yeast and forms the dough.
- Instant Yeast: Makes the dough rise quickly without needing a long proofing time.
- Sugar: A small amount to feed the yeast and add a slight touch of sweetness.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Olive Oil: Adds richness to the dough and helps it bake up golden.
- Minced Garlic: The star of the show, adding depth and that signature garlic punch.
- Shredded Mozzarella: Melts beautifully and gives that signature stretch.
- Shredded Cheddar or Provolone: Adds a sharp, tangy contrast.
- Parsley or Italian Seasoning: Optional garnish for a pop of color and herby touch.
How To Make the Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add in the flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead until a smooth dough forms, about 6–8 minutes by hand or 4 minutes with a dough hook.
Step 2: Let It Rise
Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap. Let the dough rise in a warm area for about 45 minutes, or until doubled in size.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a large rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 4: Add the Garlic and Cheese
Brush the dough with olive oil and spread the minced garlic evenly on top. Sprinkle generously with shredded mozzarella and your choice of cheddar or provolone. Finish with a dash of Italian seasoning or parsley.
Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection
Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly browned on top. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice into sticks. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch for dipping.
Serving and Storing Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
These breadsticks are best enjoyed warm out of the oven while the cheese is still melty and the crust is soft. Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a quick snack.
To store leftovers, let them cool completely, then wrap in foil or place in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or use an air fryer to crisp them up again.
You can also freeze them! Wrap tightly and store for up to 2 months. Just reheat directly from frozen until hot and bubbly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know my dough has risen enough?
It should double in size and feel airy when pressed. If it’s still dense, give it more time in a warm space.
Can I use store-bought pizza dough?
Absolutely! If you’re in a hurry, a good quality store-bought pizza dough will work just fine.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes, but you’ll need to use a gluten-free flour blend specifically made for baking with yeast. Results may vary depending on the brand.
What dipping sauces go best with these?
Marinara is the classic choice, but ranch, garlic butter, or even a spicy aioli are amazing too.
Can I add toppings?
Go for it! Crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or sun-dried tomatoes can take these breadsticks to another level.
How do I make them extra garlicky?
Add a garlic butter drizzle right when they come out of the oven—just melt butter with minced garlic and a pinch of salt.
Want More Breadside Favorites?
If you’re craving more comfort carbs like these cheesy garlic breadsticks, here are a few recipes to explore next:
- Try the Cinnamon-Sweet Alabama Pecanbread for a sweet and nutty breakfast treat.
- Don’t miss the Red Lobster’s Cheese Biscuit Loaf if you’re all about soft, cheesy bakes.
- Cinnamon Roll French Toast Roll-Ups give you a sticky, cinnamon twist you can’t resist.
- For a veggie-packed side, the Cheesy Cauliflower Patties are crispy on the edges and gooey inside.
- Or cozy up with a bowl of Cheesy Hamburger Potato Soup for a full-on comfort meal.
Save This Pin + Share Your Results
📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board so you can come back to it any time.
And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you stick with mozzarella or mix in cheddar? Add some bacon maybe?
I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Got questions or substitutions? Drop them below—we’re all here to help each other bake better.
You can also find more cheesy and comforting recipe ideas over on my Pinterest: Life with Jam on Pinterest

Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 18 minutes
- Yield: 8 breadsticks
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These homemade cheesy garlic breadsticks are soft, buttery, and baked to golden, melty perfection. With a simple dough base, garlicky topping, and a blend of gooey cheeses, they’re a guaranteed hit for any carb lover. Serve them as an appetizer, snack, or side—just don’t forget the marinara for dipping!
Ingredients
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup warm water
1 ½ teaspoons instant yeast
1 teaspoon sugar
½ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves minced garlic
1 cup shredded mozzarella
½ cup shredded cheddar or provolone
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix and knead until the dough is smooth (6–8 minutes by hand or 4 minutes with a mixer).
3. Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 45 minutes or until doubled.
4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
5. Brush the top with olive oil, then evenly spread minced garlic.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar or provolone cheese over the top. Add Italian seasoning or parsley if using.
7. Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
8. Cool for 5 minutes, slice into sticks, and serve with dipping sauce.
Notes
Make sure your water is warm—not hot—or it may kill the yeast.
Don’t skip letting the dough rise fully. It gives that fluffy, soft texture.
A mix of mozzarella and sharp cheese (like provolone or cheddar) gives the best cheesy flavor balance.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 18mg
Keywords: cheesy breadsticks, garlic bread, pizza side


