Super Bowl Cheesy Breadsticks

Name: Super Bowl Cheesy Breadsticks
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 12 breadsticks
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 packet active dry yeast; 3/4 cup warm water; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 2 tablespoons garlic butter; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love whipping up a batch of Super Bowl Cheesy Breadsticks whenever I'm gearing up for game day. There's something special about the aroma of fresh dough mingling with melted cheese that fills the house with warmth. The crispy outer layer gives way to a soft, cheesy center that everyone finds utterly irresistible. These breadsticks are easy to prepare, making them the perfect finger food to share during the big game. Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra flavor kick—trust me, you won't regret it!

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:10:15.178Z

While preparing these cheesy breadsticks, I discovered that using a combination of mozzarella and cheddar cheeses creates that perfect blend of gooeyness and flavor. The first time I made them, I couldn't believe how quickly they disappeared from the platter! Friends and family kept coming back for more, which only encouraged me to perfect the recipe.

One trick I learned is to brush the breadsticks with garlic butter just before baking. This simple addition elevates the flavor and makes them golden brown and crunchy on the outside. Trust me, your guests will be asking for the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistibly cheesy and comforting
Perfectly crispy exterior with a soft inside
Quick and easy to make, ideal for gatherings

      

Mastering the Dough

The foundation of these Super Bowl Cheesy Breadsticks lies in the dough. Using active dry yeast is crucial as it activates the fermentation process, resulting in a beautifully rising dough. When mixing the ingredients, ensure the water temperature is around 110°F (43°C); too hot can kill the yeast, while too cold may not activate it properly. After kneading, let the dough rise in a warm area covered with a damp cloth to keep it moist. A quick rise of 15 minutes is sufficient, resulting in a dough that's soft and pliable.

When rolling out the dough, aim for a rectangle about half an inch thick to ensure the breadsticks are uniform in cooking. If you find the dough too sticky, dust your surfaces with a bit more flour, but be cautious not to overdo it; too much flour can lead to a denser end product. A clean knife or a pizza cutter works brilliantly for slicing the dough into strips—this method ensures even widths for consistent baking.

Perfecting the Cheese Topping

Selecting the right cheeses plays a significant role in achieving that gooey, melty texture. Mozzarella provides stretchiness, while cheddar adds a sharper flavor profile that really elevates the taste. For a different twist, consider adding gouda or pepper jack for richness and a hint of spice. Make sure to shred your cheese from a block rather than using pre-shredded cheese; the latter often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability.

Applying the garlic butter before the baking process not only enhances moisture but also adds a golden, crisp finish on top. If you want to customize your flavor profile, you can also sprinkle a bit of parmesan cheese along with the other toppings for an extra depth of flavor. The inclusion of red pepper flakes is optional, but it adds just enough heat to balance the cheese's richness.

Serving and Storing

Once baked, your cheesy breadsticks will be a golden brown, and the irresistible aroma will fill your kitchen. For serving, cut them slightly apart, allowing easier access and presentation. These breadsticks pair exceptionally well with marinara or ranch dressing, offering a delightful contrast to the cheesiness. You could also serve them with a side of salsa for a zesty twist.

Should you have leftovers, these breadsticks can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for a week. To maintain their texture, reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. You can also freeze the raw breadsticks before baking. Just shape them, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze; once solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. When ready to bake from frozen, add an extra 5 minutes to the baking time to ensure they're cooked through.

Ingredients

Breadstick Dough

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 packet active dry yeast
3/4 cup warm water
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon olive oil

Cheesy Topping

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons garlic butter
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Add flour, salt, and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms, then knead for 5 minutes until smooth.

Cover with a cloth and let it rise for 15 minutes.

Shape the Breadsticks

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface into a rectangle. Cut it into 12 strips. Place the strips on a greased baking sheet.

Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the mozzarella and cheddar cheese evenly over the strips. Drizzle garlic butter over the top and add oregano and red pepper flakes if desired.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add fresh herbs like basil or parsley into the dough mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your breadsticks don’t rise as expected, there are a few possible reasons. First, check your yeast—make sure it's active by letting it bubble in warm water before adding the other ingredients. If the dough feels too dense after kneading, you may have added too much flour; try incorporating a bit more warm water to achieve that elastic texture.

Overbaking can turn your delightful breadsticks into crunchy snacks rather than the soft, gooey treats they should be. Keep a close eye during the last few minutes of baking, and if they start to brown too quickly, consider covering the tops with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. The aim is a golden exterior with a fluffy interior.

Making Ahead

These breadsticks can be prepped ahead of time, making them an excellent choice for gatherings. After shaping the dough into strips, you can store them uncooked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just ensure they're tightly covered to prevent drying out. When ready to enjoy, take them out and let them come to room temperature before adding the toppings and baking.

For even more convenience, consider preparing the dough and freezing it for longer storage. Once your dough is ready, divide it into portions, wrap tightly in plastic wrap, and store in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to bake, just thaw them in the fridge overnight and follow the cheese topping and baking steps as usual.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I freeze these cheesy breadsticks?

Yes, you can freeze the baked breadsticks. Just make sure to let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container.

→ What dips pair well with cheesy breadsticks?

These breadsticks go great with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a creamy garlic dip.

→ How can I make the dough rise faster?

You can place the dough in a warm environment, like an oven preheated to its lowest setting for a few minutes, then turned off.

→ Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for yeast baking.