Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the yeast. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes, until foamy.
- Make the dough. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a soft dough forms.
- Knead the dough. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 5 to 7 minutes, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let it rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Shape the breadsticks. Punch down the dough, divide it into 12 pieces, and roll each piece into a breadstick shape.
- Rest before baking. Place breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and let them rest for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Bake. Bake at 400°F for 12 to 15 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden.
- Make garlic butter. Stir melted butter with garlic powder and optional Italian seasoning.
- Brush while hot. Brush the warm breadsticks generously with garlic butter.
- Add parmesan. Immediately sprinkle finely grated parmesan over the breadsticks so it sticks to the melted butter.
- Serve. Serve warm with marinara sauce, pizza sauce, ranch, or garlic dip.
Pro Tip: Do not overbake. These breadsticks should stay soft inside with just lightly golden edges.
Shortcut Tip: Use refrigerated pizza dough when you want this recipe fast. The garlic butter and parmesan topping will still give that copycat-style flavor.
Healthy Tips & Daily Wellness
Garlic parmesan breadsticks are comfort food, and they can fit into a balanced meal when paired with simple, fresh sides.
Serve them with a big green salad, tomato soup, vegetable soup, grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, roasted vegetables, or a veggie-packed pizza night spread.
For a lighter version, use part whole wheat flour, reduce the butter slightly, and serve with a homemade marinara sauce instead of a creamy dip.
For a more filling dinner, pair these breadsticks with protein-rich foods like chicken Caesar salad, turkey chili, lean meatballs, or a hearty vegetable soup.
