Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are soft, stringy, and totally cheesy! Made with tangy sourdough bread, they are perfect for snacking or dipping into marinara.
Trust me, the stretchy cheese is a game-changer. You won’t even need a special occasion to whip these up—they’re great any day! 🧀😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Bread: A classic choice, sourdough gives a wonderful tang. If you’re in a pinch, use any crusty bread like ciabatta or French bread. Just keep in mind it may lack that special sour flavor!
Mozzarella Cheese: Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully, but you can also use Monterey Jack or even a cheese blend for varied flavor. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, part-skim mozzarella works too.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, nutty flavor. If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a great substitute! For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Butter: Unsalted butter lets you control the saltiness. If you prefer a healthier option, olive oil can be brushed on for a lovely flavor as well.
Garlic Powder and Italian Seasoning: Easy to use and flavorful! Fresh minced garlic and herbs like fresh basil or oregano can brighten things up if you have them on hand.
How Do I Achieve the Perfect Breadstick Texture?
To get those soft and cheesy breadsticks with a hint of crunch, it’s all about the baking technique. Start by preheating your oven to ensure even cooking.
- Slice your sourdough loaf evenly to create a nice surface for toppings. Aim for about 1-inch thick slices for the best texture.
- Brush the buttery garlic mixture generously for that rich flavor, making sure to coat every bit of the surface.
- Keep an eye when you broil! That last step creates a beautiful golden top, but it can burn quickly if left unattended—just 1-3 minutes should do the trick.
- Let the breadsticks cool briefly before slicing to prevent any cheese pull mishaps!
How to Make Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of sourdough bread (or sourdough baguette)
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning (or dried oregano and basil)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (or 1 tablespoon dried parsley)
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
Time Needed
Preparing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks will take about 15 minutes for prep and 15 minutes for baking, plus a few extra minutes for cooling. In total, you’re looking at approximately 30 minutes from start to enjoying a warm, cheesy snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure your breadsticks bake evenly and become perfectly cheesy! Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to make cleanup easy.
2. Slice the Sourdough
Take your sourdough loaf and slice it horizontally into about 1-inch thick halves or thick slices. This creates a flat surface ideal for loading on delicious toppings. Don’t worry if your slices aren’t perfect—they’ll still taste amazing!
3. Place the Bread on the Baking Sheet
Lay the bread slices cut side up on the prepared baking sheet. Give them a little space between each other to ensure they cook evenly.
4. Mix the Butter and Seasonings
In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, garlic powder, dried Italian seasoning, and parsley. This mix is what gives your breadsticks a burst of flavor!
5. Brush the Bread
Using a brush or spoon, evenly spread the butter mixture over the cut surface of each slice of bread. Make sure to cover the entire surface for full flavor satisfaction!
6. Add the Cheese
Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the buttered surface. Then, finish off with a layer of grated Parmesan for that salty, nutty flavor that everyone loves.
7. Bake to Perfection
Pop your baking sheet into the preheated oven. Bake for about 10-12 minutes or until you see the cheese melting and bubbling away. This is the part where you’ll start to smell all the deliciousness!
8. Broil for a Golden Finish
To achieve a beautiful golden-brown top, switch your oven to broil. Broil the breadsticks for just 1-3 minutes, carefully watching them to avoid burning. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra texture!
9. Cool and Slice
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool for a minute or two. This prevents cheese burns when you slice them. Cut the bread into sticks or rectangles based on your preference.
10. Serve with Marinara Sauce
Finally, serve your warm Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks alongside a bowl of marinara sauce for dipping. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
If you’re a cheese lover, these breadsticks will quickly become a favorite snack. Enjoy your tangy, cheesy, and irresistibly soft Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks!
Can I Use Store-Bought Sourdough Bread?
Absolutely! Store-bought sourdough works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure it’s fresh for the best flavor and texture. If it’s a bit stale, you might want to toast it slightly before adding the toppings.
What Can I Use Instead of Mozzarella Cheese?
If you’re looking for an alternative to mozzarella, try using Monterey Jack, Gouda, or a cheese blend. Just make sure whatever cheese you choose melts well to achieve that gooey texture!
Can I Make These Breadsticks Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the breadsticks up to the baking step and then cover them tightly. Store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, just pop them in the oven; you may need to add a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. You can reheat them in the oven or toaster oven to help the cheese get melty again. Avoid the microwave as it can make them soggy.
