Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Quick and easy sourdough cheesy breadsticks are a delightful treat that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, herbs, and melted cheese. These breadsticks are perfect for using up sourdough discard and can elevate any meal or snack time. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply enjoying a cozy night in, these cheesy delights will impress everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up these delicious breadsticks in no time.
- Versatile Snack: Serve them as an appetizer, side dish, or snack – they pair perfectly with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of garlic butter, Italian herbs, and two types of cheese creates an irresistible flavor profile.
- Use Sourdough Discard: A fantastic way to reduce waste by utilizing leftover sourdough starter in a delicious recipe.
- Impressive Presentation: These golden-brown cheesy breadsticks look and taste gourmet, making them perfect for entertaining.
Tools and Preparation
To make your sourdough cheesy breadsticks successfully, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to gather before starting.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet
- Pastry brush
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing dough easier and ensures it reaches the right consistency quickly.
- Mixing bowl: Essential for combining ingredients and allowing dough to rise effectively.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for all your breadsticks to bake evenly without overcrowding.
Ingredients
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 Yeast Mixture
Mix warm water, yeast, and sugar in a stand mixer bowl. Let sit until foamy, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard to the yeast mixture. Mix in flour with a dough hook until smooth and elastic, about 4 minutes.
Step 3: Let the Dough Rise
Place the dough in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Allow it to rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into a rectangle on a floured surface. Transfer it to a greased 13×18 baking sheet, pressing into corners.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Mix garlic powder, parsley, oregano, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper; sprinkle over the top. Cover with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.
Step 6: Second Rise
Let the dough rise again for 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F.
Step 7: Bake Breadsticks
Bake on the lowest rack for 15–20 minutes until crispy. Move to a higher rack for the last 2 minutes if needed to brown the top.
Step 8: Cut and Serve
Cut lengthwise into strips and then each side into 12 strips for a total of 24 cheesy breadsticks. Serve warm with marinara sauce or ranch dressing.
How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks make for a delightful appetizer or snack. Their cheesy, buttery flavor pairs wonderfully with various dips and sides. Here are some serving ideas to elevate your experience.
With Dips
- Marinara Sauce – A classic pairing, marinara adds a tangy contrast to the cheesy breadsticks.
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch complements the savory flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser.
- Garlic Butter Dip – For an extra indulgent treat, serve with warm garlic butter for dipping.
As an Appetizer
- Cheese Platter – Serve alongside a variety of cheeses for an elegant touch at parties.
- Charcuterie Board – Add your breadsticks to a charcuterie board with cured meats and olives for a tasty spread.
- Vegetable Crudités – Pair with fresh vegetables for a crunchy contrast to the soft, cheesy breadsticks.
As a Side Dish
- With Soup – These breadsticks are perfect alongside tomato soup or creamy chowders.
- Salad Companion – Serve them next to a fresh salad for added texture and flavor.
How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
To ensure your sourdough cheesy breadsticks turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Warm Water – Make sure the water is warm but not hot; this helps activate the yeast properly.
- Knead Until Smooth – Kneading the dough until it’s smooth and elastic ensures good texture in your breadsticks.
- Don’t Rush Rising Times – Allowing adequate rising time improves flavor and texture; don’t skip this step!
- Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to add different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences.
- Bake on Lowest Rack First – This helps achieve a crispy bottom crust before browning the top.
- Store Properly – Keep leftover breadsticks in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various side dishes. Here are some great options.
- Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing adds freshness.
- Tomato Soup – A warm bowl of tomato soup makes for comforting pairings with cheesy goodness.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes enhance the meal’s richness alongside the breadsticks.
- Roasted Vegetables – Seasoned roasted veggies offer a healthy balance to the indulgent breadsticks.
- Pasta Primavera – A light pasta dish packed with seasonal vegetables complements the flavors nicely.
- Stuffed Peppers – Flavorful stuffed peppers can create a hearty meal when served with these cheese-laden treats.
- Greek Salad – The tangy feta and olives make for a refreshing side that contrasts beautifully.
- Bruschetta – Fresh tomato bruschetta provides a bright, zesty addition that pairs well with cheesy flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks can be a delightful experience, but there are common mistakes that can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.
- Ignoring yeast activation: Always let the yeast, water, and sugar mixture sit until it becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready for baking.
- Using cold ingredients: Ensure your sourdough discard and other ingredients are at room temperature. Cold ingredients can hinder dough rising.
- Skipping flour measurements: Accurately measure your flour using the spoon-and-level method. Too much flour can lead to dry breadsticks.
- Not covering dough: Cover your rising dough with plastic wrap or a damp cloth. This prevents it from drying out during the rising process.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on your breadsticks as they bake. Overbaking will lead to hard, dry sticks instead of soft and cheesy ones.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
- They will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Freezing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Place cooled breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container.
- They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes for a crispy texture.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm, but this may make them chewy.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until warmed through, which helps maintain crispness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Yes! Feel free to mix cheeses like cheddar or gouda with mozzarella for different flavors.
How do I make gluten-free Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Check the package instructions for best results.
Can I add toppings to my Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
Absolutely! You can add toppings like jalapeños, sun-dried tomatoes, or even bacon bits before baking for extra flavor.
How long does it take to make Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
The total time is about 30 minutes, including prep and baking time, making it a quick option for snacks or appetizers.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with different cheeses or herbs to suit your taste. They’re perfect for snacking or serving at gatherings—give this recipe a try!
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 breadsticks 1x
Description
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are the perfect blend of crispy, cheesy goodness with a touch of garlic and herbs. These delectable treats come together quickly, making them an ideal snack or appetizer for any occasion. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can transform your sourdough discard into a gourmet delight that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect for dipping in marinara sauce or ranch dressing, these cheesy breadsticks are sure to become a favorite in your household.
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
- Toppings: melted butter, garlic powder, Italian herbs, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit until foamy (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard. Gradually add flour while mixing until smooth.
- Allow the dough to rise in a covered bowl for 20 minutes.
- Roll out the dough into a rectangle and place it on a greased baking sheet.
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with seasonings and cheese.
- Let it rise again for 15 minutes while preheating the oven to 400°F.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown. Cut into strips and serve warm.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 10mg
