Crispy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Crispy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a deliciously crunchy treat that combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with melted, gooey cheese. These breadsticks have a golden, crispy crust on the outside…
Tip: save now, cook later.Crispy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a deliciously crunchy treat that combine the tangy flavor of sourdough with melted, gooey cheese. These breadsticks have a golden, crispy crust on the outside and a soft, chewy center that you just can’t resist. The cheese adds a rich, savory touch, making them perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite soups and salads.
I love making these breadsticks when I want something easy but special. They come together quickly, and the sourdough flavor gives them a nice twist that’s different from regular breadsticks. A little sprinkle of garlic powder or herbs on top can really boost the flavor, and I always find myself sneaking a few before they even hit the table!
My favorite way to enjoy these breadsticks is warm, straight out of the oven, with a side of marinara sauce for dipping. They’re great for sharing at family dinners or parties, and somehow, they disappear faster than I expect. Whenever I serve them, everyone asks for the recipe, which makes me feel like a kitchen star. Give these a try, and I’m pretty sure they’ll become a go-to snack in your house too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: This gives the breadsticks a nice tang and chewy texture. If you don’t have sourdough, a French baguette or Italian bread works great too.
Mozzarella Cheese: It melts smoothly and adds a lovely stretch. You can use provolone or Monterey Jack if you prefer a different flavor or texture.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a nutty, salty punch. If Parmesan isn’t available, Pecorino Romano is a flavorful substitute.
Butter & Seasoning: Melted butter mixed with garlic powder and Italian herbs gives the breadsticks great flavor and crispness. Olive oil works as a dairy-free option but alters taste slightly.
How Do You Get the Cheese Perfectly Melted and the Breadsticks Crispy?
The trick is balancing baking time and temperature so cheese melts without burning the bread.
- Brush breadsticks evenly with seasoned butter to keep them moist and flavorful.
- Sprinkle cheese and press lightly to help it stick.
- Bake at 400°F until cheese bubbles and edges turn golden, about 12-15 mins.
- Use the broil step for 1-2 minutes at the end for a bubbly, crispy top—watch closely so it doesn’t burn!
This method gives a perfect combo of melted cheese with a golden, crunchy crust. Let them cool just a bit to firm up before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – a flat surface to bake your breadsticks evenly and catch any melted cheese.
- Parchment paper – makes cleanup easy and keeps breadsticks from sticking to the pan.
- Small bowl – perfect for mixing melted butter with garlic powder and herbs.
- Pastry brush or spoon – helps you spread the flavored butter evenly over the breadsticks.
- Oven mitts – to safely handle the hot baking sheet when removing breadsticks from the oven.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella with cheddar for a sharper, tangy cheese flavor.
- Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the butter for a fragrant herbal twist.
- Sprinkle cooked bacon bits or pepperoni slices before baking for a meaty touch.
- Mix in some red pepper flakes with the garlic butter if you like a bit of heat.
Crispy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf sourdough bread (about 12 oz), cut into thick slices or sticks
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or a mix of dried oregano, basil, rosemary)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a slight kick
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for baking. Add a couple of minutes if you choose to broil for a crispier top. Overall, you’ll have warm, cheesy breadsticks ready in under 30 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
2. Cut the Bread:
Slice the sourdough loaf into thick sticks about 1 to 1.5 inches wide—these will become your breadsticks.
3. Make Garlic Herb Butter:
In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well.
4. Apply Butter and Cheese:
Brush the garlic herb butter generously over all sides of the breadsticks. Then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top, pressing lightly so the cheese sticks well.
5. Bake and Broil:
Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart. Bake for 12-15 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly, and edges are golden and crispy. For an extra crispy top, switch your oven to broil and broil the breadsticks for 1-2 minutes, keeping a close eye to avoid burning.
6. Serve:
Let the breadsticks cool slightly before serving warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your crispy, cheesy, sourdough breadsticks!
Can I Use Frozen Sourdough Bread for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the bread is fully thawed before cutting and preparing. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature to avoid soggy breadsticks.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to restore their crispiness.
Can I Make These Breadsticks Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare and assemble the breadsticks, then cover and refrigerate them unbaked. When ready, bake as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if needed.
What Can I Use Instead of Mozzarella Cheese?
Feel free to swap mozzarella with provolone, Monterey Jack, or cheddar for a different cheesy flavor. Just choose cheeses that melt well for the best results.