Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

Quick and easy Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are a delicious way to use up sourdough discard. These breadsticks are topped with garlic butter, Italian herbs, and gooey melted cheese, making them perfect for snacking, parties, or as a side dish. Their crispy exterior and soft interior create a delightful texture that everyone will love.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Dough
• For the Topping
• How to Make Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
• Step 1: Prepare the Yeast Mixture
• Step 2: Combine Ingredients
• Step 3: First Rise
• Step 4: Shape the Dough
• Step 5: Add Toppings
• Step 6: Second Rise
• Step 7: Bake
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
• With Dipping Sauces
• As Part of a Meal
• For Parties and Gatherings
• How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
• Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
• Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• How do I know if my sourdough discard is still good?
• Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
• What can I serve with Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?
• How long do these breadsticks last?
• Can I customize the toppings?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, these breadsticks come together quickly.
• Use Sourdough Discard: This recipe utilizes sourdough discard effectively, reducing waste while enhancing flavor.
• Flavor Packed: The combination of garlic butter and Italian herbs elevates the taste, making each bite irresistible.
• Versatile Snack: Perfect for dipping in marinara or ranch, these cheesy breadsticks can serve as appetizers or party treats.
• Crowd Pleaser: Great for gatherings, they’re bound to be a hit with family and friends.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make the process easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you need to get started:

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Stand mixer
• Mixing bowl
• Baking sheet
• Rolling pin
• Plastic wrap
• Pastry brush

Importance of Each Tool

• Stand mixer: This tool helps knead the dough efficiently, ensuring a smooth texture without much effort.
• Baking sheet: A large baking sheet provides ample space for your breadsticks to bake evenly.
• Pastry brush: Use this to apply melted butter and seasonings evenly over the dough.

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 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 for about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Add garlic salt, olive oil, and sourdough discard. Mix in flour using the dough hook until smooth and elastic—about 4 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

Place the dough in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Shape the Dough

Roll out 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 dough with melted butter. Mix herbs and seasonings together; sprinkle them over the top. Finally, cover with both cheeses.

Step 6: Second Rise

Let the dough rise again for 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 necessary to brown the top.

Step 8: Serve

Cut lengthwise then into strips (12 each side) for a total of 24 breadsticks. Serve warm with marinara or ranch dressing.

How to Serve Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

Sourdough cheesy breadsticks are a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether as an appetizer, snack, or side dish, these cheesy delights pair exceptionally well with a variety of dips and meals.

With Dipping Sauces

• Marinara Sauce: Classic tomato sauce enhances the flavors and adds a tangy kick.
• Ranch Dressing: Creamy ranch adds a rich and zesty complement to the cheesy breadsticks.
• Garlic Butter Dip: A simple blend of melted butter and garlic for those who can’t get enough garlic flavor.

As Part of a Meal

• With Soup: Perfect alongside a bowl of tomato or minestrone soup for a comforting meal.
• In Salads: Serve with a fresh garden salad to add crunch and flavor contrast.
• Alongside Pasta: Pair them with your favorite pasta dishes for an Italian feast.

For Parties and Gatherings

• Appetizer Platter: Arrange them on a platter with other finger foods to impress guests.
• Game Day Snack: Perfect for munching while watching sports; serve with assorted dips.

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How to Perfect Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

Perfecting sourdough cheesy breadsticks is all about technique and attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your breadsticks turn out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always check the freshness of your yeast and cheese for optimal flavor.
• Knead Properly: Ensure you knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic; this texture helps achieve the perfect rise.
• Don’t Rush the Rise: Allow adequate rising time for the dough; this enhances flavor and texture.
• Preheat Your Oven: Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking for even cooking.
• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to mix different cheeses or herbs according to your preference for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

Sourdough cheesy breadsticks make an excellent addition to many meals. Here are some fantastic side dishes that complement them beautifully.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing, croutons, and parmesan cheese makes a refreshing side.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted with olive oil brings color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful bell peppers filled with rice, beans, or meat add heartiness to any meal.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy seasoned potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch that pairs well with cheese.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy cabbage slaw balances the richness of the cheesy breadsticks nicely.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella offers fresh flavors that complement the cheesy taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks, even small errors can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.

• Skipping the yeast proofing: Not allowing the yeast to foam can lead to dense breadsticks. Always let the yeast mixture sit until bubbly.
• Using cold ingredients: Cold water or sourdough discard can hinder rising. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for best results.
• Not rolling the dough evenly: Uneven thickness leads to inconsistent baking. Roll the dough into a uniform rectangle for even cooking.
• Overloading on cheese: While cheese is delicious, too much can make the breadsticks soggy. Use the recommended amounts for a perfect balance.
• Neglecting rise times: Rushing the rising process can yield tough breadsticks. Be patient and allow both rises as instructed for fluffy results.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Wrap in plastic wrap for added freshness and moisture retention.

Freezing Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

• Freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.
• Keep for up to 3 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and bake for about 10 minutes until heated through. This keeps them crispy.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Keep an eye on them to prevent sogginess.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes, flipping occasionally for even heating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks that might help you while making this delightful recipe.

How do I know if my sourdough discard is still good?

If your sourdough discard smells tangy and bubbly, it is likely still good. If it has an off smell or shows signs of mold, discard it.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead?

Yes, substituting whole wheat flour is possible; however, it may alter the texture slightly. Consider mixing with all-purpose flour for balance.

What can I serve with Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks?

These breadsticks pair wonderfully with marinara sauce or ranch dressing. They also complement soups and salads as a side.

How long do these breadsticks last?

Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks last about 3 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Can I customize the toppings?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite herbs, spices, or additional cheeses to personalize your breadsticks even further!

Final Thoughts

Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to suit any occasion. You can customize them with different herbs or cheeses according to your preference. Give this recipe a try and enjoy these delightful treats fresh from your kitchen!