Pin it
This hearty homemade breadstick recipe has become our family favorite, outshining even the beloved Pizza Hut version we've enjoyed for years. The perfect combination of soft interior and slightly crispy exterior makes these irresistible straight from the oven, filling your kitchen with an aroma that draws everyone to the table.
I first made these during a Friday night when we were craving Pizza Hut but didn't want to order delivery. My children declared them better than the restaurant version, and now they're requested weekly alongside our homemade pizzas and pasta dishes.
Ingredients
- Warm water: Ensures proper yeast activation for perfect rise
- Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast creating fluffy texture
- Instant yeast: Provides reliable rise without proofing
- Olive oil: Adds richness and keeps breadsticks tender
- Salt: Enhances all flavors and controls yeast activity
- All purpose flour: Creates the ideal texture no specialty flours needed
- Unsalted butter: Creates the signature buttery bottom and top
- Parmesan cheese: Adds authentic savory notes use freshly grated if possible
- Onion powder: Provides subtle depth without texture
- Dried oregano: Brings classic Italian herb flavor
- Garlic powder and salt: Create that unmistakable garlic bread flavor
- Dried basil: Adds aromatic freshness and color
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
- Combine warm water, sugar and yeast in a large mixing bowl and allow to rest for 2 minutes until slightly foamy. The water should feel like warm bath water, not hot, or you risk killing the yeast. Stir in olive oil and salt to create the liquid base.
- Form the Dough:
- Using a stand mixer with dough hook attachment, gradually incorporate 3 cups of flour until a cohesive dough forms. Continue mixing on medium speed for a full 5 minutes, adding additional flour just until the dough is tacky but not sticky. This extended mixing develops gluten for the perfect chewy texture.
- Prepare Pans and First Rise:
- Pour 4 tablespoons melted butter into each of two 9x13 baking dishes, ensuring the bottom is evenly coated. This creates the signature buttery bottom crust. Divide dough in half and roll each portion into a 9x13 rectangle, then transfer to buttered pans. Press dough all the way to corners and edges. Brush tops with another tablespoon of butter each, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and allow to rise at room temperature for exactly one hour.
- Bake to Golden Perfection:
- Preheat oven to 475°F while dough is finishing rise time. Remove plastic wrap and score each pan of dough into 10 equal breadsticks using a knife or pizza cutter. Bake in preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, watching carefully until edges turn golden brown.
- Final Flavor Enhancement:
- Remove hot breadsticks from oven and immediately brush with remaining tablespoon of butter per pan. Sprinkle generously with the prepared seasoning blend while still hot so spices adhere to the buttery surface. Let rest 5 minutes before transferring to a cutting board and serving warm.
Pin it
The melted butter in the baking pan is truly my secret weapon in this recipe. When I first developed it, I was trying to figure out how Pizza Hut gets that distinctive buttery bottom, and this technique creates that exact texture while adding incredible flavor. My children now request extra seasoning blend to dip the breadsticks in.
Make Ahead Options
These breadsticks can be partially made ahead to save time on busy evenings. Prepare the dough and complete the first rise in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours instead of at room temperature. Simply allow the cold dough to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking. The slow rise actually develops even more flavor, making this a fantastic option for entertaining.
Storage and Reheating
While these breadsticks are absolutely best enjoyed fresh from the oven, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for one day. For longer storage, freeze completely cooled breadsticks in a zippered freezer bag for up to one month. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven directly from frozen until heated through and crisp, about 5 to 8 minutes. Avoid microwaving as this makes them tough.
Perfect Pairings
These breadsticks are versatile enough to complement various Italian dishes. Serve alongside lasagna, spaghetti, or create a complete pizza night experience with homemade pizza. For appetizer service, offer warm marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping. They also make an excellent addition to a soup and salad meal, especially with minestrone or tomato basil soup.
Customization Ideas
The basic dough recipe works beautifully as a canvas for different flavor variations. Try adding Italian herbs directly to the dough for herb infused breadsticks. You can substitute whole wheat flour for up to half the all purpose flour for a heartier texture and nutty flavor. For cheese lovers, try folding shredded mozzarella into the dough before the first rise for cheese stuffed breadsticks that pull apart beautifully.
Pin it
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
Yes, active dry yeast can be used, but you’ll need to activate it in warm water with sugar for about 5–10 minutes before mixing.
- → Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough, let it rise, and refrigerate it overnight. Bake the breadsticks the next day for freshly made flavor.
- → What can I substitute for Parmesan in the seasoning?
You can use grated Pecorino Romano or even nutritional yeast for a similar savory flavor.
- → How do I store leftover breadsticks?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 1 day or freeze in a zipper bag for up to 1 month. Reheat before serving.
- → Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, but the texture may be denser. A mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour works best for a balance of flavor and texture.