Ah, cheesy bread sticks! Just saying the name makes my heart do a little happy dance. There’s something truly magical about biting into warm, gooey cheese surrounded by soft, slightly crispy bread. These delightful morsels have been a hockey night staple in my house for as long as I can remember, and they never fail to bring people together. Whether I’ve got friends over for a movie marathon or a cozy night in with my favorite series, these cheesy bread sticks are a hit every time. Plus, they’re ridiculously easy to make, which is a bonus in my book!
I remember the first time I made them – my kitchen smelled like a pizzeria, and everyone gathered around, eagerly anticipating my creation. The first batch disappeared within minutes, and I don’t think I’ve ever been so proud (or so popular!). So, let’s dive right into this heavenly recipe – I’m excited to share it with you!
What’s in Cheesy Bread Sticks?
Pizza Dough: Whether you decide to whip up your own or grab a package from the store, pizza dough is the foundation of these bread sticks. Store-bought is super convenient, and I often go that route when I’m short on time!
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: The ultimate cheese for melting, mozzarella makes these bread sticks incredibly gooey and delicious. Aim for high-quality mozzarella for that perfect stretchy goodness.
Grated Parmesan Cheese: This cheese adds a nice salty kick that pairs beautifully with the mozzarella. I love using freshly grated Parmesan when I can find it; it really elevates the flavors!
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil helps create that golden, crispy exterior on the dough while also adding a layer of flavor.
Garlic: I love garlic! It’s wonderful for infusing the bread with a savory taste. Freshly minced is a must for that robust garlic flavor.
Fresh Parsley: This adds a pop of freshness! If fresh parsley isn’t available, dried parsley will do in a pinch.
Garlic Powder: It complements the fresh garlic and brings that robust garlic flavor to every bite.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes in there. It’s optional, but it adds a nice zesty touch.
Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch is all you need to bring the flavors together!
Is Cheesy Bread Sticks Good for You?
Now, let’s chat about health considerations! While cheesy bread sticks are definitely a treat and best enjoyed in moderation, there are some aspects you might appreciate.
Mozzarella Cheese: Rich in calcium and protein, it can be part of a balanced diet. Just remember that moderation is key – a little goes a long way!
Garlic: Packed with health benefits, garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties! Adding it to your recipes not only amps up the flavor but also helps out your health.
Olive Oil: A heart-healthy fat, olive oil can be a healthier option compared to butter or margarine. Just be mindful of the amount!
So while we’re indulging in cheesy goodness, we can also feel a little good about what we’re eating!
Ingredients List
– 1 package of pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
**Servings:** This recipe yields about 12-15 cheesy bread sticks, enough to share with family or friends (or to enjoy all by yourself – no judgment here!).
How to Make Cheesy Bread Sticks?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. If you’re using store-bought pizza dough, let it rest at room temperature for about 20 minutes; this makes it much easier to handle. Roll it out on a floured surface into a rectangle, about 1/2 inch thick.
3. Transfer your rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper – it’ll keep everything from sticking.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, minced garlic, parsley, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Brush this savory garlic oil mixture evenly over your dough.
5. Now for the best part – sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese generously all over the oiled dough, then follow it up with the grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for about 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, and the edges of the dough are lightly brown.
7. Remove them from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before cutting them into sticks. You want to make sure you don’t burn your mouth!
8. Serve warm, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a little extra parsley.
Cheesy Goodness Tips!
These cheesy bread sticks are perfect on their own or served as an appetizer, but you can totally customize them! I like to experiment with additional toppings like Italian herbs, diced jalapeños for a spicy kick, or even slices of pepperoni for a meaty twist.
Don’t forget to pair them with a dipping sauce – marinara or ranch dressing is a classic choice! They also make for an incredible snack during movie nights or game days.
Honestly, I can’t wait for you to try these cheesy wonders! I hope they bring as much joy to your table as they do to mine. And remember, the most important ingredient is having fun – so gather your friends or family and get ready for a cheesy adventure! Let me know how yours turn out!
