Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Quick and easy sourdough cheesy breadsticks are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful snacks are topped with garlic butter, Italian herbs, and melted cheese, making them irresistible. Not only do they use up sourdough discard, but they also deliver a warm, cheesy goodness that pairs wonderfully with marinara or ranch dipping sauces. Whether for a party, game day, or a cozy family dinner, these breadsticks will surely impress!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy days.
- Versatile Use: Serve these cheesy breadsticks as an appetizer, snack, or side dish with your favorite meals.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and Italian herbs gives these breadsticks an amazing taste that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is great for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Use up your sourdough discard in a delicious way that won’t waste any food.
Tools and Preparation
Before getting started, gather the necessary tools to make your sourdough cheesy breadsticks. Having everything on hand will streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Measuring cups
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: This tool helps to easily mix the dough until smooth and elastic without much effort.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the best results; you’ll need them for both dry and wet ingredients.
Ingredients
For these delicious sourdough cheesy breadsticks, you will need:
For the Dough:
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
For the Topping:
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
How to Make Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Step 1: Mix the Dough
Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a stand mixer bowl. Let this mixture sit until foamy, which should take about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard into the bowl. Mix in flour using a dough hook until the dough becomes smooth and elastic; this takes about 4 minutes.
Step 3: Let It Rise
Place the dough into a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for about 20 minutes.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Transfer it to a greased 13×18 baking sheet, pressing it into the corners.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Brush the top with melted butter. In a small bowl, mix together garlic powder, parsley, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; sprinkle this mixture over the dough. Finish by covering it with both cheeses.
Step 6: Second Rise
Let the dough rise again for another 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Step 7: Bake Them Perfectly
Bake on the lowest rack of your oven for about 15–20 minutes or until crispy. If needed, move to a higher rack during the last two minutes to brown the top.
Step 8: Cut and Serve
Cut lengthwise first then make cuts on each side to create strips—aiming for about 24 breadsticks total. Serve warm alongside marinara or ranch dressing for dipping!
How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether as a snack, appetizer, or side dish, these cheesy treats will elevate any meal.
As an Appetizer
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
- Pair with ranch dressing for a creamy complement.
With Soups
- Enjoy alongside a hearty tomato soup for a comforting meal.
- Dip them into a bowl of creamy potato soup for extra flavor.
At Parties
- Cut into smaller pieces for easy snacking during gatherings.
- Present on a platter with assorted dips to please your guests.
As a Snack
- Perfect for kids’ lunchboxes alongside fruit or veggies.
- Great for game day, served with your favorite beverages.
In a Salad
- Crumble over salads for added texture and taste.
- Use as croutons in Caesar salad for a cheesy twist.
How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
To achieve the best sourdough cheesy breadsticks, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure your breadsticks are perfectly baked every time.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your yeast is active and your cheeses are fresh for optimal flavor.
- Don’t rush the rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly will give you fluffier and more flavorful breadsticks.
- Experiment with herbs: Feel free to adjust the herbs based on your taste preferences; try adding basil or rosemary for variety.
- Check oven temperature: Make sure your oven is preheated correctly. An oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temperatures.
- Brush generously with butter: A good layer of melted butter not only adds flavor but also helps achieve that golden-brown finish.
- Cut before baking: For even cooking and easy serving, cut your breadsticks before baking to create distinct portions.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks pair wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Caesar Salad – A classic mix of romaine lettuce, croutons, and parmesan cheese tossed in Caesar dressing complements the cheesy flavors beautifully.
- Tomato Soup – The rich and tangy flavors of tomato soup make it an ideal partner for dunking these delicious breadsticks.
- Garlic Butter Shrimp – Juicy shrimp tossed in garlic butter can create an impressive meal when served alongside cheesy breadsticks.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal roasted vegetables adds color and nutrition to your plate while balancing the cheesiness of the breadsticks.
- Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers filled with rice, meat, or beans serve as a hearty side that pairs well with sourdough cheesy breadsticks.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip – This creamy dip is perfect for additional dipping options that enhance the overall experience of enjoying your breadsticks.
- Greek Yogurt Dip – A refreshing yogurt-based dip with herbs and spices can provide a lighter option to balance out the richness of the cheese.
- Chili Con Carne – A warm bowl of chili brings heat and heartiness that goes hand-in-hand with the soft texture of the sourdough cheesy breadsticks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sourdough cheesy breadsticks can be fun, but avoiding common mistakes is key to achieving the best results.
- Skipping the yeast proofing: Always let the yeast mixture sit until foamy. This ensures the yeast is active and will help your breadsticks rise properly.
- Overworking the dough: Mixing too long can lead to tough breadsticks. Aim for a smooth, elastic texture without over-kneading.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Precision matters in baking. Use a kitchen scale or proper measuring cups to ensure correct proportions.
- Ignoring rising times: Allowing the dough to rise adequately is crucial for texture. Don’t rush this step, as it helps develop flavor and lightness.
- Baking at incorrect temperatures: Ensure your oven is preheated to 400°F before baking. This helps achieve that crispy outer layer on your breadsticks.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover sourdough cheesy breadsticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep them at room temperature if you plan to eat them within two days.
Freezing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Place cooled breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to label with the date!
Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds. Be cautious not to overheat, as they can become chewy.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for several minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making sourdough cheesy breadsticks, we’ve got answers!
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for different flavors in your sourdough cheesy breadsticks.
How do I make gluten-free sourdough cheesy breadsticks?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. Make sure it contains xanthan gum for proper structure.
How should I store leftover sourdough cheesy breadsticks?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage.
What can I serve with sourdough cheesy breadsticks?
These delicious sticks pair well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy aioli.
Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! Just double all ingredients and ensure you have enough space on your baking sheet.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. You can customize toppings and cheeses based on your preferences. Try these delightful snacks today; they’re perfect for sharing or enjoying solo!
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 breadsticks 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful experience of Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks, a quick and easy treat that elevates any occasion. These golden, crispy sticks are generously topped with rich garlic butter, a medley of Italian herbs, and a luscious blend of melted mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Perfect for game days, family dinners, or casual snacking, they pair wonderfully with marinara or ranch dipping sauces. Plus, this recipe makes excellent use of sourdough discard, turning potential waste into cheesy goodness that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup warm water
- 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup sourdough discard
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan
Instructions
- Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a stand mixer; let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic salt, olive oil, sourdough discard, and flour; mix until smooth (about 4 minutes).
- Let the dough rise covered for 20 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface and transfer to a greased baking sheet.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with herbs and cheese.
- Allow to rise again for 15 minutes while preheating oven to 400°F.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Cut into strips and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 17g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
