I have to admit, there’s something magical about Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks with Marinara Recipe. Every time I make these, the aroma of garlic and melted cheese fills my kitchen, and it feels impossible to wait before digging in. I’ve tried a few versions before, including the French Garlic Philly Cheesesteak Bread Recipe, but this recipe has become my go-to because it’s easy, cheesy, and pairs perfectly with tangy marinara.
I love how crisp the edges get while the center stays soft and gooey. Making these is a little therapy session for me, and the best part is sharing them with friends and family.
Ingredients
Here’s what I use every time I make these breadsticks. I like to pick fresh ingredients when I can—it really makes a difference.
- All-purpose flour – 2 cups (freshly sifted for fluffier breadsticks)
- Instant yeast – 2 ¼ teaspoons (helps the dough rise perfectly without waiting too long)
- Sugar – 1 tablespoon (feeds the yeast for a light, airy texture)
- Salt – 1 teaspoon (balances flavors and enhances the garlic and cheese)
- Warm water – ¾ cup (not too hot, or it can kill the yeast)
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons (adds richness and keeps the crust soft)
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced (fresh garlic gives the best punch of flavor)
- Mozzarella cheese – 1 ½ cups, freshly grated (melts better than pre-shredded)
- Butter – 3 tablespoons (for brushing and extra buttery garlic flavor)
- Fresh parsley – 1 tablespoon, chopped (adds freshness and a pop of color)
- Marinara sauce – ½ cup (store-bought or homemade, choose one with rich flavor)
Note: Several servings.
Variations
I love experimenting with this recipe depending on my mood or dietary needs:
- Swap mozzarella with dairy-free cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
- Add a sprinkle of parmesan or cheddar for a richer, more complex flavor.
- Mix in herbs like oregano, thyme, or chili flakes for a kick.
- Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose for a healthier twist.
- Drizzle a little honey or balsamic glaze on top for a sweet-savory variation.
- You can also enjoy similar flavors when trying the The Best Spicy Cajun Shrimp Recipe for a slightly bolder, zesty twist.
Cooking Time
Making these breadsticks is pretty quick, and the results are worth every minute:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
- Total Time: 30–33 minutes
Equipment You Need
I keep things simple in my kitchen, but having the right tools helps:
- Mixing bowl – for combining the dough
- Whisk or spoon – for stirring ingredients
- Baking sheet – to bake the breadsticks evenly
- Parchment paper – prevents sticking and easy cleanup
- Knife or pizza cutter – for slicing breadsticks neatly
- Small saucepan – to melt butter and garlic for brushing
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks with Marinara Recipe
I break down this recipe into easy steps, so you can follow along without feeling overwhelmed.
Prepare the Dough
I start by combining flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Then I slowly add warm water and olive oil, kneading until I get a smooth dough. Letting it rest for 10 minutes helps it rise slightly and become soft.
Shape the Breadsticks
Once the dough is ready, I roll it out into a rectangle and slice it into strips. I like to make them thick enough to stay soft inside but thin enough to get crispy edges.
Add Garlic and Cheese
I melt butter and stir in minced garlic, then brush this over each breadstick. Sprinkling fresh mozzarella on top is my favorite part—it makes everything gooey and irresistible.
Bake Until Golden
I bake the breadsticks at 200°C (about 400°F) for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and cheese is melted. Watching them puff up in the oven never gets old.
Finish and Serve
After baking, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and serve immediately with warm marinara on the side. The combination of cheesy bread and tangy sauce is pure comfort.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, these little tweaks make a big difference:
- I always use freshly grated mozzarella; pre-shredded tends to have additives that affect melting.
- Brushing extra garlic butter before baking makes the crust even more flavorful.
- Letting the dough rest for a few minutes after slicing improves texture.
- If I want extra crispy edges, I broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- I never skip fresh parsley—it adds brightness and makes the dish Instagram-ready.
How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks with Marinara
I like to serve these breadsticks while they’re hot, but presentation matters too:
- Arrange the breadsticks on a wooden board or platter for a rustic look.
- Use small ramekins or bowls for marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle extra cheese or chili flakes on top for visual appeal.
- Pair with a fresh salad or soup to make it a full meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick glance at what you’re enjoying:
- Calories: Around 250 per serving
- Protein: 10g (from cheese and flour)
- Carbohydrates: 28g (from flour and a touch of sugar)
- Fat: 12g (from butter, cheese, and olive oil)
These breadsticks aren’t just indulgent—they have some nutritional benefits too, thanks to fresh ingredients and a balanced cheese-to-dough ratio.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing: I store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They stay soft but can be reheated for extra warmth.
Freezing: If I want to make a batch for later, I freeze unbaked breadsticks for up to 1 month. I thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking.
Reheating: I usually reheat in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 5–7 minutes. I avoid microwaving—it makes the crust soggy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I honestly can’t get enough of these breadsticks. Here’s why:
- Quick and easy: I can have them ready in under 30 minutes.
- Deliciously cheesy: The mozzarella melts perfectly, giving that gooey satisfaction.
- Versatile: Perfect for snacks, side dishes, or party platters.
- Customizable: I can tweak herbs, spices, or cheese types depending on mood.
- Crowd-pleaser: Friends and family always ask me to make these again.
Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks with Marinara Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- I start by combining flour, yeast, sugar, and salt in a mixing bowl. Then I slowly add warm water and olive oil, kneading until I get a smooth dough. Letting it rest for 10 minutes helps it rise slightly and become soft.
- Once the dough is ready, I roll it out into a rectangle and slice it into strips. I like to make them thick enough to stay soft inside but thin enough to get crispy edges.
- I melt butter and stir in minced garlic, then brush this over each breadstick. Sprinkling fresh mozzarella on top is my favorite part—it makes everything gooey and irresistible.
- I bake the breadsticks at 200°C (about 400°F) for 15–18 minutes, until the edges are golden brown and cheese is melted. Watching them puff up in the oven never gets old.
- After baking, I sprinkle fresh parsley on top for color and serve immediately with warm marinara on the side. The combination of cheesy bread and tangy sauce is pure comfort.
Notes
- I always use freshly grated mozzarella; pre-shredded tends to have additives that affect melting.
- Brushing extra garlic butter before baking makes the crust even more flavorful.
- Letting the dough rest for a few minutes after slicing improves texture.
- If I want extra crispy edges, I broil for 1–2 minutes at the end.
- I never skip fresh parsley—it adds brightness and makes the dish Instagram-ready.
