Description
At its core, this recipe is a modern, flavor packed twist on traditional Italian American garlic breadsticks. Instead of leaving the dough plain or merely topping it with a light sprinkle of herbs, we stuff the center full of a two-cheese blend and a generous hit of spicy red chilies.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 2½ cups (315 g) bread flour
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- ¾ cup (180 ml) warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the Filling
- 8 mozzarella cheese sticks (or cut mozzarella into sticks)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1–2 fresh red chilies, finely chopped (or 1 tsp chili flakes)
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
For the Garlic Butter
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- ½ tsp chili flakes
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
For Serving
- Marinara sauce
- Ranch dressing or garlic aioli (optional)
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine the flour, yeast, sugar, and salt.
Add the warm water and olive oil, then mix into a soft dough.
Knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Cover and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
Mix the shredded cheddar, chopped chilies, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning in a bowl.
Punch down the dough and divide it into 8 equal portions.
Flatten each piece into a rectangle.
Place one mozzarella stick in the center and top with a spoonful of the cheddar mixture.
Fold the dough tightly around the cheese, pinching the seams well to seal.
Arrange the breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Cover loosely and let rest for 15 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Bake for 16–18 minutes, or until golden brown.
Mix the melted butter, garlic, parsley, and chili flakes.
Brush generously over the hot breadsticks.
Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, if using.
Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic aioli for dipping.
Notes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick
- Calories: 260 kcal