Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Ingredients:
– **For the Dough:**
– 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 3/4 cup (180 ml) warm water (about 110°F or 45°C)
– 2 cups (250 g) all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– **For the Topping:**
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 1/2 cups (150 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or a mix of dried oregano, basil, and parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a small bowl, mix the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy, indicating the yeast is active.
– In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil.
– Mix until a dough forms. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
– Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
2. **Preheat the Oven:**
– Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
3. **Shape the Dough:**
– After the dough has risen, punch it down to release any air. Transfer the dough to the prepared baking sheet and stretch or roll it out into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.
4. **Prepare the Garlic Butter:**
– In a small bowl, combine the melted butter and minced garlic. Brush this garlic butter mixture generously over the dough.
5. **Add the Cheese:**
– Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
– Sprinkle the Italian seasoning and garlic powder over the cheese.
6. **Bake the Breadsticks:**
– Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
7. **Slice and Serve:**
– Remove from the oven and let the breadsticks cool for a few minutes. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice the bread into strips or sticks.
– Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
8. **Enjoy:**
– Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Tips:
– **Extra Flavor:** For an extra kick, you can add red pepper flakes to the topping before baking.
– **Make Ahead:** The dough can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated overnight. Let it come to room temperature before rolling out and baking.
Enjoy!
These Homemade Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are perfect as a side dish for pasta, pizza night, or as a tasty snack on their own. The combination of garlic, melted cheese, and a soft, chewy crust makes these breadsticks irresistible!