Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Quick and easy sourdough cheesy breadsticks are the perfect treat for any occasion. These delightful breadsticks combine the tangy flavor of sourdough discard with rich melted cheese, making them a fantastic appetizer or snack. They are incredibly versatile, pairing well with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or just on their own. Their crispy exterior and fluffy interior are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: This recipe uses basic pantry staples, making it accessible for everyone.
- Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can whip up these delicious cheesy breadsticks.
- Great for Leftovers: Perfect for using up sourdough discard without wasting any ingredients.
- Customizable Toppings: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or additional cheeses to make it your own!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s game day, a family dinner, or a casual gathering, these breadsticks fit right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making your sourdough cheesy breadsticks, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline the process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Stand mixer
- Dough hook
- Baking sheet (13×18 inches)
- Mixing bowl
- Plastic wrap
- Rolling pin
Importance of Each Tool
- Stand mixer: Makes mixing the dough easy and ensures a smooth consistency.
- Dough hook: Helps knead the dough effectively without needing to do it by hand.
- Baking sheet: Provides ample space for the breadsticks to expand while baking.
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 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 this 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, which should take about 4 minutes.
Step 3: Let Dough Rise
Place the dough in a bowl and cover it with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 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 it into the corners.
Step 5: Add Toppings
Brush the rolled-out dough with melted butter. Mix herbs and seasonings together; sprinkle them over the top. Next, cover with both cheeses evenly.
Step 6: Final Rise
Let the dough rise again for another 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F.
Step 7: Bake
Bake on the lowest rack for 15–20 minutes until crispy. Move to a higher rack during the last 2 minutes if needed to brown the top.
Step 8: Serve
Cut lengthwise into strips then cut each side into 12 strips for a total of 24 breadsticks. Serve warm with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are deliciously versatile and can be served in many ways. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these breadsticks pair perfectly with a variety of dips and entrees.
Pair with Dips
- Marinara Sauce – A classic pairing! The rich tomato flavor complements the cheesy goodness.
- Ranch Dressing – Creamy ranch adds a zesty kick that contrasts nicely with the savory breadsticks.
- Garlic Butter – Drizzle warm garlic butter for an extra layer of flavor that enhances every bite.
Add to Salads
- Caesar Salad – Crunchy croutons made from leftover breadsticks elevate this classic salad.
- Greek Salad – Fresh vegetables combined with cheesy breadsticks make for a satisfying meal.
Serve as an Appetizer
- Charcuterie Board – Include these cheesy breadsticks on your charcuterie board for a delightful addition.
- Soup Sidekick – Serve alongside a warm bowl of soup to create a comforting meal.
Enjoy at Parties
- Game Day Snack – Perfect finger food for gatherings, they disappear quickly during sports events!
- Holiday Gatherings – Bring these as a festive appetizer to impress your guests.
How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Perfecting sourdough cheesy breadsticks is easy with a few tips. Follow these suggestions to achieve the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Make sure your yeast is active and your cheeses are fresh for optimal flavor.
- Knead Properly – Kneading until smooth and elastic helps develop gluten, giving the breadsticks the right texture.
- Control Rising Time – Allow enough time for both rises; this improves texture and flavor in the final product.
- Experiment with Toppings – Feel free to add different herbs or spices to customize flavors according to your taste.
- Adjust Baking Time – Keep an eye on them while baking; ovens vary so adjust baking time as needed for perfect crispiness.
Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks pair beautifully with several side dishes. Here are some great options to consider:
- Caprese Salad – A fresh mix of mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil brings brightness to your meal.
- Tomato Basil Soup – This comforting soup makes a perfect dip for the cheesy goodness of the breadsticks.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a hearty side dish that complements the breadsticks well.
- Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal vegetables grilled to perfection add color and healthiness alongside your cheesy treat.
- Spinach Artichoke Dip – Rich and creamy, this dip pairs wonderfully with the chewy texture of the breadsticks.
- Mixed Green Salad – A light salad with vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of cheese in the breadsticks.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making sourdough cheesy breadsticks can be straightforward, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
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Ignoring the Yeast Activation: Always let the yeast, water, and sugar sit until foamy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to help your dough rise.
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Overworking the Dough: Mixing the dough for too long can make it tough. Use a dough hook until smooth and elastic, then stop to maintain tenderness.
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Skipping the Second Rise: Allowing the dough to rise again after shaping is crucial. This step ensures your breadsticks will be fluffy and light.
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Not Using Enough Seasoning: To enhance flavor, don’t skimp on garlic salt or herbs. They are key components in making your breadsticks irresistible.
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Cutting Before Baking: Avoid cutting your dough into strips before baking. Letting it bake first helps create a better texture and shape.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.
Freezing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.
- Can be stored for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30 seconds; check frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have questions about making sourdough cheesy breadsticks, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries.
Can I use different types of cheese in Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
Absolutely! You can mix mozzarella with cheddar or even add some blue cheese for a bold flavor twist.
How do I know if my sourdough discard is still good?
Check for a pleasant smell and bubbles; if it smells off or has mold, it’s best to discard it.
What can I serve with Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
These breadsticks pair perfectly with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a warm bowl of soup!
Can I make these Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Adjust liquid as necessary based on the blend used.
Final Thoughts
Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are not only quick and easy but also incredibly versatile. You can customize them with various cheeses or spices to suit your taste. Whether as an appetizer or side dish, these delightful sticks are sure to impress!
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 24 servings 1x
Description
Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a delightful way to transform your sourdough discard into a savory treat that everyone will love. These breadsticks are quick and easy to make, combining the tangy flavor of sourdough with rich, melted cheese. With a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior, they make the perfect appetizer or snack for any occasion. Whether you’re serving them at game day gatherings or as a side dish for dinner, these cheesy breadsticks are sure to impress.
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)
- Italian herbs and shredded cheese (mozzarella and parmesan)
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 to the yeast mixture. Gradually mix in flour using a dough hook until smooth (about 4 minutes).
- Cover dough with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm spot for about 20 minutes.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle and transfer it to a greased baking sheet.
- Brush with melted butter, then sprinkle with Italian herbs and cheeses.
- Allow the dough to rise again for another 15 minutes while preheating your oven to 400°F.
- Bake on the lowest rack for about 15–20 minutes until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Snack/Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick (28g)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 170mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 8mg
