Few things in life deliver pure comfort quite like warm, cheesy bread, and Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter are a shining example of that irresistible combination. Imagine biting into a soft, golden breadstick only to discover ooey-gooey melted mozzarella inside, all topped with aromatic garlic butter—can you picture a more satisfying snack or appetizer? These breadsticks evoke the cozy feeling of sitting at a favorite Italian pizzeria, yet they come together quickly right at home. Fun fact: In Italy, stuffed breadsticks have been a cherished bakery treat for ages, and now you can enjoy them fresh from your own oven!
What makes these breadsticks extra special is their simplicity and crowd-pleasing nature. They require just a handful of pantry staples and only a bit of hands-on time, making them perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. With every bite, you’ll see why kids and adults can’t get enough of this cheesy twist. If you enjoy my popular Garlic Knots recipe, you’ll love these cheesy breadsticks just as much—both deliver big, bold flavors with minimal fuss. You’ll soon discover, these are destined to be a new family favorite!
What is Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter?
Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter—what a mouthful, right? But trust me, there’s a reason for such a delightfully descriptive name! Imagine classic breadsticks, but with an exciting cheesy surprise inside and a buttery, garlicky finish on top. Who came up with such a genius idea? Maybe someone who truly believed that ‘the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach’ and decided that cheese makes everything better. Whatever the origin, these breadsticks combine everything we love: soft bread, melty cheese, and a punch of garlic flavor. Ready to make your tastebuds happy and impress your family? Give this recipe a try and watch these breadsticks disappear!
Why You’ll Love This
First and foremost, these Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks shine because of their ooey-gooey mozzarella center—the ultimate indulgence! Biting into the pillowy bread and finding a cheesy middle feels like discovering a hidden treasure in every stick. Making these breadsticks at home is also budget-friendly compared to restaurant or takeout prices, so you get more for less without skimping on flavor or fun. The finishing touch of fresh garlic butter, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning takes every bite to a new level of deliciousness—just wait until your kitchen fills with that mouthwatering aroma!
If you love the buttery goodness of my popular Homemade Soft Pretzels, these breadsticks offer a similar comfort factor with the added joy of melted cheese. They’re ideal for family pizza night, snacking during movie marathons, or even serving as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer. Once you bake a batch, you’ll wonder how you ever settled for plain breadsticks! Ready to bake? Let’s get started!
How to Make
Quick Overview
Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter are everything you want in a homemade snack: ultra-cheesy, fluffy, buttery, and loaded with flavor. Don’t be intimidated—the dough comes together with pantry staples, and after a brief rise, you simply stretch, stuff, and bake! From start to finish, expect just over an hour for a full batch—including rising time. So, even if you’re short on time, this is a perfect recipe to whip up as a last-minute treat or weekend baking project.
Ingredients
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon sugar
2 teaspoons instant yeast
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup warm water
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Step-by-Step
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes, until foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5–7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 30 minutes, until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a rectangle. Place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella in the center, then fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the seams to seal tightly.
- Place each breadstick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cover and let rest for 10 minutes while the oven finishes heating.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Brush half the garlic butter mixture over the tops of the breadsticks.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining garlic butter while hot.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm and enjoy!
What to Serve Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter With
These breadsticks are delicious on their own, but they also make the perfect sidekick for your favorite Italian dishes. Pair them with a classic marinara sauce or creamy Alfredo for dipping—kids especially love dunking! For a hearty meal, serve them alongside homemade lasagna, spaghetti and meatballs, or a big Caesar salad. If you’re hosting a party or game night, add them to a platter with olives, cured meats, and roasted veggies. Don’t forget a cold glass of lemonade or your favorite soda to round out the comfort food feast!
Top Tips for Perfecting
For the softest breadsticks, measure your flour carefully and don’t rush the kneading process—well-kneaded dough ensures a pillowy texture. Feel free to swap mozzarella for your favorite cheese (cheddar or provolone work well!) or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you’re short on time, use store-bought pizza dough as a shortcut.
Be sure to seal the dough edges tightly around the cheese to prevent leaks while baking—pinch firmly! Don’t skip the final brush of garlic butter, as it infuses each breadstick with maximum flavor and keeps them moist. Avoid overbaking for the gooey-est cheese pull!
Storing and Reheating Tips
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 7–10 minutes, or until heated through and the cheese inside is melty again. For quick reheating, a microwave works in a pinch, but the oven provides the best texture.
To freeze, let baked breadsticks cool completely, then wrap tightly in foil and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 350°F oven for 15–18 minutes. Enjoy fresh flavor anytime!
FAQs
What type of cheese works best for the filling?
Mozzarella is classic for its melty pull, but cheddar, provolone, or even a mix of cheeses can be used for different flavors.
Can I use store-bought dough instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Pre-made pizza dough or even crescent roll dough makes this recipe even quicker and equally tasty.
How do I prevent the cheese from leaking during baking?
Be sure to tightly seal the dough around the cheese, pinching all seams and folding ends inward. You can also chill the stuffed breadsticks in the fridge for 10 minutes before baking.
Can these be made ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and shape the breadsticks, then cover and refrigerate before baking. Bake right before serving for best results.
Are these breadsticks vegetarian-friendly?
Yes! As long as your cheese and butter are vegetarian, the whole recipe is a meatless treat.
Conclusion
Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter are everything a comfort food lover dreams of: soft, warm bread, gooey cheese inside, and a garlicky, buttery finish. They’re easy enough for beginner bakers and impressive enough to share with guests. With simple ingredients, great taste, and crowd-pleasing appeal, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to explore more cheesy, carb-loving goodness on the blog for your next mealtime victory!
Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks with Garlic Butter
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment Paper
Ingredients
Dough Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 teaspoons instant yeast
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Filling Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Garlic Butter Topping
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Stir and let sit for about 5 minutes, until foamy.
- Add the flour, salt, and olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5–7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for about 30 minutes, until doubled in size.
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces.
- Flatten each piece into a rectangle. Place a generous amount of shredded mozzarella in the center, then fold the dough over the cheese, pinching the seams to seal tightly.
- Place each breadstick seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
- Cover and let rest for 10 minutes while the oven finishes heating.
- In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
- Brush half the garlic butter mixture over the tops of the breadsticks.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, until golden brown and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and brush with the remaining garlic butter while hot.
- Let cool slightly, then serve warm and enjoy!