Crispy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a perfect mix of crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, loaded with melty cheese and that lovely tangy sourdough flavor. They’re easy to hold, fun to share, and have just the right amount of crispiness that makes every bite so satisfying.
I love making these breadsticks when I want a simple snack or a side to go with soup or salad. One little tip I’ve learned is to brush them with a bit of garlic butter right after baking—it adds a nice burst of flavor and makes them smell irresistible. Plus, the cheesy pull as you break them apart always gets everyone’s attention.
These breadsticks remind me of cozy nights at home with friends, gathered around the table, dipping them in marinara or just enjoying them plain. They’re easy to whip up, so I often keep sourdough dough ready in the fridge for making these whenever the craving hits. If you’re looking for a crowd-pleaser that feels a bit special but isn’t complicated, these breadsticks will definitely become a go-to in your kitchen.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough dough: This is the star that gives the breadsticks their unique tang and texture. If you don’t have sourdough, feel free to use regular bread dough or pizza dough. For a quicker option, store-bought pizza dough works well too.
Mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses: Mozzarella melts beautifully and gives that gooey texture. Parmesan adds a nice salty, nutty kick. If you want, swap Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a twist.
Butter and olive oil: Butter adds richness and helps the garlic flavor shine. Olive oil brings a bit of fruitiness. You can use all olive oil or all butter depending on your preference.
Garlic and Italian seasoning: Fresh minced garlic packs the best aroma and flavor, but garlic powder works too if you’re in a pinch. Italian seasoning blends herbs like oregano and basil, but fresh herbs can be a great upgrade.
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Bottom and Melty Cheese on These Breadsticks?
The secret is balancing the oven temperature and spreading the toppings right. Here’s what works for me:
- Preheat your oven fully: Make sure it’s hot at 425°F (220°C) to get that crisp crust.
- Use parchment or a silicone mat: This helps the breadsticks cook evenly without sticking.
- Brush the butter-oil-garlic mix evenly: This adds flavor and helps with golden browning.
- Don’t overload cheese: Too much can make the bread soggy. A good sprinkle lets it melt perfectly and brown nicely.
- Keep an eye near the end of baking: When cheese bubbles and starts to turn golden brown, it’s time to take them out to avoid burning.
Following these steps helped me get consistently crispy, cheesy, and flavorful breadsticks every time! Try to let them cool just a bit so they firm up before cutting.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat surface helps the breadsticks cook evenly and get crispy.
- Parchment paper or silicone baking mat – keeps breadsticks from sticking and makes cleanup easy.
- Rolling pin – helps you roll the dough evenly into a rectangle shape.
- Small bowl – perfect for mixing the garlic butter and seasoning.
- Pastry brush – great for spreading the butter and oil mix smoothly over the dough.
- Sharp knife or pizza cutter – to slice the breadsticks neatly after baking.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella for a mix of mozzarella and sharp cheddar for a bolder cheesy flavor.
- Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the butter mix for an herby twist.
- Mix cooked bacon bits or pepperoni slices on top before baking for a meaty touch.
- Stir a pinch of red pepper flakes into the garlic butter for a little heat.
How to Make Crispy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Sourdough Breadsticks:
- 1 pound sourdough bread dough (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12-15 minutes to bake. So, in around 30 minutes, you’ll have golden, crispy, and cheesy breadsticks ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepping the Oven and Dough:
Heat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the sourdough dough into a rectangle about 12 by 10 inches. Carefully move the dough onto your prepared baking sheet.
2. Adding Flavor and Cheese:
In a small bowl, mix together the melted butter, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and Italian seasoning. Use a pastry brush to spread this flavorful blend evenly all over the dough. Then, sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of the dough.
3. Baking and Finishing Touches:
Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden and the breadsticks have a lovely crispy bottom. Once out of the oven, sprinkle dried parsley flakes over the warm breadsticks. Let them cool a bit before cutting into strips. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping and enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Sourdough Dough for These Breadsticks?
Yes! Just make sure to fully thaw the dough in the refrigerator overnight before rolling it out. This helps ensure even baking and the perfect texture.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. You can prepare and bake them, then store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to regain crispiness.
What Are Good Substitutes for Mozzarella and Parmesan?
Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor. Parmesan can be replaced with Pecorino Romano or Asiago—both add a nice salty, nutty bite.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 24 hours or in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To restore crispiness, reheat them briefly in a hot oven rather than the microwave.
