Step-by-Step Instructions
- Activate the yeast. Add warm water, sugar, and yeast to a bowl. 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 mixer for 5 to 7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Let it rise. Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for about 1 hour, or until doubled.
- Shape the breadsticks. Punch down the dough, divide into 12 pieces, and roll each piece into a breadstick shape.
- Second rest. 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 the breadsticks are puffed and lightly golden.
- Make garlic butter. Stir melted butter with garlic powder and optional Italian seasoning.
- Coat while warm. Brush hot breadsticks generously with garlic butter, then immediately sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Serve. Serve warm with marinara sauce, pizza sauce, ranch, or garlic dip.
Pro Tip: Do not overbake. These breadsticks are best when they stay soft and fluffy inside with only lightly golden edges.
Shortcut Tip: For a faster version, use store-bought pizza dough, shape it into breadsticks, bake, then coat with garlic butter and parmesan.
Healthy Tips & Daily Wellness
These garlic parmesan breadsticks are comfort food, and they can still fit into a balanced meal when served with simple sides.
Pair them with a big salad, vegetable soup, grilled chicken, turkey meatballs, roasted vegetables, or a protein-rich pizza night spread.
For a lighter version, use part whole wheat flour, reduce the butter slightly, and serve with a homemade marinara sauce that has no added sugar.
For a more filling meal, serve the breadsticks with tomato soup, chicken Caesar salad, turkey chili, veggie-packed pasta, or lean protein pizza toppings.
