Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a delightful and versatile treat that everyone will enjoy. With their gooey cheese, savory garlic butter, and Italian herbs, these breadsticks make an excellent appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying movie night at home, or simply looking to use up some sourdough discard, this recipe delivers on flavor and ease.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make – This recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed – Topped with garlic butter and Italian herbs, each bite is bursting with flavor.
- Versatile Snack – Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or even a fun addition to a picnic.
- Great for Leftovers – Perfect for using up sourdough discard without wasting any ingredients.
- Customizable Toppings – Feel free to get creative with your choice of cheeses or spices!
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks, gather the necessary tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Baking sheet (13×18)
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing dough easy and ensures it’s well combined for the best texture.
- Baking sheet: A large baking surface allows for even cooking and plenty of space for your breadsticks.
- Plastic wrap: Helps keep the dough moist while it rises, preventing it from drying out.
Ingredients
Quick and easy sourdough breadsticks topped with garlic butter, Italian herbs, and melted cheese. Perfect for using up sourdough discard.
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: Prepare the Dough
Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in the stand mixer bowl. Let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
– Add garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard.
– Mix in flour using a dough hook until smooth and elastic (about 4 minutes).
Step 2: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap.
– Let it rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes.
Step 3: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface.
– Transfer to a greased 13×18 baking sheet, pressing into corners.
Step 4: Add Toppings
Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter.
– Mix herbs and seasonings together; sprinkle over the top.
– Cover with both cheeses evenly.
Step 5: Second Rise
Let the dough rise again for about 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F.
Step 6: Bake Your Breadsticks
Bake on the lowest rack for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
– Move to a higher rack during the last 2 minutes if you want a browner top.
Step 7: Cut and Serve
Cut lengthwise into strips, then cut each side into 12 pieces for a total of 24 breadsticks.
Serve warm with marinara or ranch dressing for dipping!
How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, here are some delightful serving suggestions.
As an Appetizer
- Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping, enhancing the cheesy flavors.
- Pair with ranch dressing for a creamy contrast that complements the garlic butter.
With Soup or Salad
- Enjoy alongside a hearty tomato basil soup, perfect for soaking up the flavors.
- Serve with a fresh garden salad, adding crunch and freshness to your meal.
At Parties
- Cut into smaller pieces for bite-sized snacks that are easy to grab during gatherings.
- Create a cheese platter featuring the cheesy breadsticks alongside various cheeses and cured meats.
For Game Day
- Serve on a platter with spicy buffalo sauce or blue cheese dressing for a tasty game-day treat.
- Offer them as part of a snack spread with chips and dips to keep everyone satisfied.
How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Perfecting your sourdough cheesy breadsticks is key to achieving that crispy exterior and gooey cheese inside. Here are some helpful tips.
- Use fresh ingredients: Ensure your yeast is active and your cheeses are fresh for the best flavor.
- Don’t rush the rise: Allowing the dough to rise properly enhances texture and flavor.
- Preheat your oven: A fully preheated oven helps achieve that perfect crispiness on the outside.
- Experiment with toppings: Try different cheeses or herbs to create unique flavor profiles every time you make them.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks pair well with a variety of side dishes that complement their flavors. Here’s a list of ideal accompaniments.
- Garlic Parmesan Fries: Crispy fries tossed in garlic butter and parmesan elevate any meal.
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons provide a refreshing balance.
- Bruschetta: Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella on toasted bread add brightness to your plate.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory mushrooms filled with cream cheese and herbs make for an elegant side.
- Caprese Skewers: Cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a light option.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: This warm dip pairs perfectly with sourdough breadsticks for extra indulgence.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned seasonal veggies bring color and nutrition to your table.
- Antipasto Platter: A mix of olives, meats, cheeses, and pickled veggies offers variety alongside your cheesy delights.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks can be simple, but certain mistakes can hinder your results. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Using old yeast: Ensure your yeast is fresh and active. Expired yeast will not rise properly, leading to dense breadsticks.
- Not measuring accurately: Precision in measuring ingredients is crucial. Using too much or too little flour or water can affect the dough’s consistency.
- Skipping the second rise: Allowing the dough to rise again improves texture. Skipping this step can result in flat breadsticks.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the baking time. Overbaked breadsticks can become hard and lose their cheesy goodness.
- Ignoring seasoning: Seasoning enhances flavor. Don’t skip or skimp on herbs and spices to ensure each bite is delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Wrap each cooled breadstick tightly with plastic wrap.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container; they can last for up to 3 months.
Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F. Place breadsticks on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
- Microwave: Heat individual breadsticks for about 20-30 seconds on a microwave-safe plate.
- Stovetop: Warm them in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally, to keep them crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are savory snacks made from sourdough dough, topped with garlic butter, herbs, and melted cheese.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with various cheeses like cheddar or gouda for unique flavors.
How do I use sourdough discard?
Sourdough discard adds flavor and reduces waste. Just mix it into your dough as per the recipe instructions.
Are these breadsticks easy to make?
Absolutely! This recipe is quick and user-friendly, making it perfect for both beginners and seasoned bakers.
Can I customize my Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
Yes! You can add toppings like jalapeños or bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
These Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are an irresistible treat that combines comfort and flavor. They are perfect for using up sourdough discard while being customizable to suit your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are an irresistible treat that combines the tangy flavor of sourdough with gooey melted cheese and savory garlic butter. Perfect for snacking, these breadsticks are easy to make and a fantastic way to use up sourdough discard.
Ingredients
- 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
- 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- garlic powder
- dried parsley
- oregano
- Italian seasoning
Instructions
- In a stand mixer bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard; mix well.
- Gradually add flour using a dough hook until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 4 minutes).
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes.
- Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Brush the dough with melted butter and sprinkle with mixed herbs and cheeses.
- Allow the dough to rise again for about 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F.
- Bake on the lowest rack for 15-20 minutes until golden brown; move to a higher rack during the last two minutes if desired.
- Cut into strips and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 132
- Sugar: 0.4g
- Sodium: 196mg
- Fat: 6.0g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
