Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Quick and easy sourdough cheesy breadsticks topped with garlic butter, Italian herbs, and melted cheese are a delightful treat perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a game night, a family gathering, or just want a comforting snack, these breadsticks will impress everyone with their crispy texture and savory flavor. Best of all, they utilize sourdough discard, making them an excellent choice for reducing waste while enjoying delicious bites.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can create these delectable breadsticks.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and melted cheese creates an irresistible taste that pairs well with marinara sauce.
- Versatile Snack: Perfect for parties, movie nights, or as an appetizer at dinner. They suit various occasions and preferences.
- Great Use of Sourdough Discard: Transform leftover sourdough into something delightful rather than tossing it out.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or different types of cheese for a unique twist.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your baking process and ensure success.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowls
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing dough easier and ensures it becomes smooth and elastic quickly.
- Rolling pin: Helps achieve an even thickness when rolling out the dough for uniform baking.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space to bake all 24 breadsticks at once without overcrowding.
Ingredients
Quick and easy sourdough cheesy 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 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 to the yeast mixture. Then mix in the flour using a dough hook attachment until the dough is smooth and elastic (about 4 minutes).
Step 3: Let It Rise
Place the dough in a bowl covered 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 while pressing it into the corners.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Mix garlic powder, dried parsley, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper together; sprinkle this blend over the top. Finally, cover generously with both mozzarella and parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Second Rise
Let the dough rise again for about 15 minutes as you preheat your oven to 400°F.
Step 7: Bake
Bake on the lowest rack for about 15-20 minutes until crispy. If necessary, move to a higher rack during the last two minutes to achieve browning on top.
Step 8: Slice & Serve
Cut lengthwise first then into strips so you have 24 breadsticks total. Serve these cheesy delights hot with marinara sauce or ranch dressing!
How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are a delightful snack or appetizer that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving them at a party or enjoying them on a cozy night in, these breadsticks can complement many dishes.
With Dipping Sauces
- Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing, marinara adds a tangy flavor that enhances the cheesy goodness.
- Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch offers a cool contrast to the warm, cheesy breadsticks.
- Garlic Butter: For garlic lovers, a side of melted garlic butter is perfect for dipping.
As an Appetizer
- Cheese Platter: Serve with assorted cheeses for a fun and interactive starter.
- Charcuterie Board: Include meats, olives, and nuts alongside the breadsticks for an elevated experience.
- Stuffed Peppers: Pair with mini stuffed peppers for a colorful and flavorful appetizer spread.
As a Snack
- With Soup: Perfect alongside tomato or vegetable soup for dipping.
- On Game Day: Serve with wings and nachos for an ultimate game-day snack table.
How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
To achieve the best sourdough cheesy breadsticks, follow these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.
- Rise Time: Ensure you let the dough rise adequately; this improves texture and flavor.
- Use of Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs instead of dried can elevate the taste significantly.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or cheddar for unique flavors.
- Baking Technique: Bake on the lowest rack first to get crispy bottoms, then move up to brown the top effectively.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Pairing your sourdough cheesy breadsticks with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider:
- Salad: A mixed greens salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the breadsticks.
- Roasted Vegetables: Colorful roasted veggies add nutrition and flavor while being easy to prepare.
- Pasta Salad: Cold pasta salad brings freshness that contrasts nicely with warm cheese sticks.
- Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats and marinated vegetables pairs beautifully with cheesy snacks.
- Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites enhance your appetizer table and make for great finger food.
- Grilled Chicken Strips: Juicy chicken strips offer protein that complements the cheesy carbs perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sourdough cheesy breadsticks can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Boldly skipping the proofing time. Allowing the dough to rise is crucial for achieving that light and airy texture. Skipping this step leads to dense breadsticks.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately. Baking is a science, so ensure you use precise measurements for water, flour, and yeast. A digital scale can help achieve consistency.
- Ignoring the importance of kneading. Proper kneading develops gluten, giving your breadsticks their structure. Aim for smooth and elastic dough after mixing.
- Overloading with cheese. While cheese is essential for flavor, too much can weigh down the breadsticks and make them soggy. Stick to recommended amounts for the best results.
- Using cold water instead of warm. Warm water activates yeast effectively, promoting better rising. Cold water can hinder this process, leading to less fluffy breadsticks.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store 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 breadstick in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.
Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10 minutes until warm and crisp.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds or until warm; this may make them soft, so it’s best for quick reheating.
- Stovetop: Place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making sourdough cheesy breadsticks.
What is the best way to use sourdough discard?
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are perfect for using up your sourdough discard, reducing waste while enjoying delicious snacks.
Can I customize my Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
Absolutely! You can add different herbs or spices to suit your taste or mix in other types of cheese like cheddar or gouda.
How do I know if my yeast is active?
If your mixture of warm water, sugar, and yeast becomes bubbly and foamy within 5-10 minutes, your yeast is active and ready to use.
Can I make these gluten-free?
While traditional recipes require all-purpose flour, you can experiment with gluten-free flour blends designed for baking.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are not only easy to make but also versatile. Customize them with your favorite toppings or dips like marinara sauce. This recipe is perfect for using leftover sourdough discard while offering a warm and cheesy treat that everyone will love!
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 24 servings 1x
Description
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness and savory garlic flavor. These delightful treats are quick and easy to prepare, making them an ideal snack for any occasion—from game nights to family gatherings. Utilizing sourdough discard not only helps reduce waste but also adds a unique flavor profile to these irresistible breadsticks. Topped with a luscious garlic butter mixture and melted cheese, they’re sure to impress everyone at your table. Pair them with marinara sauce or ranch dressing for the ultimate dipping experience!
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
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Italian herbs (parsley, oregano, Italian seasoning)
Instructions
- In a stand mixer, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar; let sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- Add garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour using a dough hook until smooth and elastic (about 4 minutes).
- Cover the dough with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for about 20 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Brush with melted butter, sprinkle herbs and cheese on top.
- Let rise again for about 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F.
- Bake on the lowest rack for 15-20 minutes until crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American/Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick (35g)
- Calories: 130
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
