These Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a warm, cheesy treat that you can’t resist! The sourdough adds a nice tang, while the gooey cheese makes them extra special.
Grab some and enjoy them fresh out of the oven! I love to dip mine in marinara sauce. It’s like having pizza in stick form—who wouldn’t love that? 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Sourdough Starter: The star of this recipe! An active sourdough starter gives your breadsticks a lovely tang. If you don’t have one, you can use store-bought pizza dough or bread dough as an alternative. Just remember, the flavor will be different!
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but for a chewier texture, you could mix in some bread flour. If you’re gluten-free, consider a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
Cheese: Mozzarella is gooey and melty, while Parmesan adds a nice salty finish. A substitute for mozzarella is provolone or Monterey Jack. For vegan options, try vegan cheese shreds that melt well.
Olive Oil: Extra virgin olive oil gives richness. If you’re out, melted butter or even a neutral oil like canola works as a substitute. I prefer olive oil for its flavor, but you do you!
How Can I Get the Perfect Dough Texture?
Getting the right dough texture is crucial for delightful breadsticks! Here’s how to achieve it:
- Start with your active sourdough starter, which should be bubbly and have a fresh aroma. It will help the dough rise well.
- When kneading, aim for a smooth, elastic dough. If it feels sticky, don’t hesitate to sprinkle a little extra flour. Just be careful not to overdo it!
- Let the dough rest covered in a warm spot. This helps it to rise properly—don’t rush this step!
- When rolling it out, aim for about 1/2-inch thick. This ensures the breadsticks hold their shape while baking.
Enjoy making these Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks and don’t forget to try different cheeses and herbs to find your favorite combination!
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dough:
- 1 cup sourdough starter, active
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, plus extra for brushing
For the Topping:
- 3/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs or a blend of dried oregano and basil
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Pinch of black pepper
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time, 2 to 3 hours for the dough to rise, and 12-15 minutes for baking. So overall, you’ll be looking at around 2.5 to 3 hours (most of that is waiting time for the dough to rise). The good news is, it’s super easy to prep and the delicious smell will fill your kitchen as they bake!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine Ingredients:
In a mixing bowl, mix together the active sourdough starter with the all-purpose flour and salt. Pour in 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and stir until the dough starts to come together into a shaggy mass.
2. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface. Lightly knead the dough for about 5 minutes, until it feels smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, sprinkle a bit more flour as you knead. It should be soft but not overly sticky.
3. Let the Dough Rise:
Place your kneaded dough into a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a damp cloth or plastic wrap. Let it sit at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours, or until it has visibly risen and puffed up.
4. Prepare for Baking:
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). While the oven heats, grease a baking sheet lightly or line it with parchment paper, making cleanup a breeze.
5. Roll Out the Dough:
Once the dough has risen, turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a rectangle shape, about 1/2-inch thick. Carefully transfer this rolled-out dough to your prepared baking sheet.
6. Add Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix the minced garlic, dried herbs, and just a drizzle of olive oil. Brush this flavorful mixture evenly over the surface of the dough, making sure it’s well covered!
7. Cheese Time!
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over your dough. For an extra kick, you can add a bit of black pepper on top.
8. Bake the Breadsticks:
Pop the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the breadsticks are cooked through.
9. Finish & Garnish:
After baking, take out the breadsticks and lightly brush them with olive oil for a shiny finish. If you like, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color.
10. Slice & Serve:
Let them cool slightly, then cut into strips or rectangles. Serve warm with marinara sauce or your favorite dipping sauce. Enjoy every cheesy bite!
These Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are perfect as an appetizer or a tasty treat to accompany any meal. Happy cooking!
Can I Use Discarded Sourdough Starter for This Recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Discarded sourdough starter works well in this recipe as long as it’s been kept in the fridge and is still fresh. Just make sure it’s active and bubbly for the best rise!
How to Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want them to last longer, you can refrigerate them for up to a week, or freeze them for up to 3 months. Just reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results!
Can I Make These Breadsticks Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that has xanthan gum in it. The texture might differ slightly, but they can still be delicious!
What Dipping Sauces Go Well with These Breadsticks?
These cheesy breadsticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce, garlic butter, or even ranch dressing. Feel free to get creative with your favorite dips!