Easy Weeknight Breadsticks Recipe

I absolutely adore this recipe because it transforms simple ingredients into irresistibly delicious homemade breadsticks, filling my kitchen with the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread and garlic. The combination of garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese creates a flavor explosion that perfectly complements any meal, turning ordinary dinners into unforgettable dining experiences.

These Easy Weeknight Breadsticks are just that: easy and quick to make. This recipe uses 1 ½ cups of warm water and 2 ¼ teaspoons of active dry yeast to make the breadsticks rise to a delightfully fluffy texture.

The garlic powder and Italian seasoning in the dough stick well, but the real flavor comes from the melted butter and Parmesan finish.

Ingredients

Warm water: Assists in activating yeast; essential for dough to rise.

Yeast, dry and active: A leavening agent that makes the breadsticks fluffy.

Sugar in granulated form: Supplies the yeast with sustenance, which helps it perform its fermentation and rising tasks.

All-purpose flour has the dual functions of supplying both structure and carbohydrate.

Salt: Amplifies flavor; counterbalances the taste of the dough.

Butter: Without salt, it is a source of richness and a tenderizing agent.

Olive oil: Moisture, flavor, and heart-healthy fats are what this brings.

Powdered garlic: Delivers the delicious, fragrant, and savory flavor of garlic.

Seasoned with Italian herbs: A flavorful herb blend is added.

The cheese known as Parmesan: Contributes a flavor that is salty and savory and bursts with umami.

Ingredient Quantities

• 1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (or 1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. In a big mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for around 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.

2. Flour and salt are added to the yeast mixture. Until a dough begins to form, mixing occurs. After the dough forms, kneading takes place for about 5 minutes, which is the time required to make the dough smooth and elastic.

3. Put dough in a bowl that has been lightly oiled, then cover the bowl and allow the dough to rise in a warm location for an hour or until it has doubled in size.

4. Heat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a baking sheet by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper.

5. Deflate the risen dough and shape it on a surface lightly dusted with flour into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.

6. Slice the dough into 1-inch-wide strips. If you prefer, give each strip a little twist as you place it on the baking sheet.

7. Melted butter should be used to brush the breadsticks, after which garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese can be sprinkled on them.

8. Preheat the oven, and then bake for 15 to 20 minutes. They are done when they are golden brown.

9. Take the dish from the oven and allow it to cool for a brief period before serving.

10. If you want to add an extra touch of flavor and color, you can garnish it with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!

Equipment Needed

1. Large mixing bowl
2. Measuring cups and spoons
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Clean countertop or cutting board for kneading
5. Clean kitchen towel or plastic wrap
6. Oven
7. Baking sheet
8. Parchment paper or cooking spray (optional, for lining/greasing)
9. Pastry brush
10. Knife or pizza cutter
11. Small bowl (for melted butter)

FAQ

• Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?Certainly, you can use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast in the same amounts. It’s not necessary to dissolve it in water first; you can just combine it with the dry components of the recipe.
• What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?In the absence of Italian seasoning, a combination of dried basil and oregano makes a good substitute. Or use any dried herbs you like: thyme, rosemary, or something similar.
• Can I make the dough ahead of time?You can indeed prepare the dough ahead of time. Let it rise; then, punch it down and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Bring it back to room temperature before shaping it.
• How can I make the breadsticks more cheesy?To up the cheesiness of the breadsticks, add another layer of shredded mozzarella or more Parmesan on top before baking.
• Is there a gluten-free alternative?A gluten-free all-purpose flour blend can serve as a substitute, but the texture may be somewhat different. For optimal results, make sure your blend contains xanthan gum.
• What can I serve with these breadsticks?These breadsticks are a perfect companion to pasta dishes, soups, or salads. They’re also excellent as a snack with marinara or garlic dipping sauce.
• Can I freeze the breadsticks? Yes, bake them fully, let them cool, and then freeze. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

Yeast: Use 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast and do not proof.
All-purpose flour: Opt for bread flour if you desire a chewier texture, and for a healthier take, use whole wheat flour.
Unsalted butter: Olive oil can be used as a direct substitute for a dairy-free rendition of this recipe, but you could also use another liquid fat, such as avocado oil, or a soft spreadable butter replacement, like Earth Balance, if you prefer trying to keep the texture of the baked good as close as possible to what it would be if made with butter.
Garlic powder: For a more intense flavor, use 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
Parmesan cheese: Substitute nutritional yeast for a vegan alternative.

Pro Tips

1. Proof Your Yeast Before adding the flour, make sure your yeast is fully activated and foamy. If it’s not foamy after 5-10 minutes, your yeast might be old or the water temperature could have been incorrect. Start fresh with new yeast or adjust the water temperature.

2. Kneading Technique Use the heel of your hand to push the dough away from you, then fold it back over itself. Rotate the dough and repeat. This will help develop the gluten, resulting in a chewy and airy texture for your breadsticks.

3. Optimal Rising Conditions For the first rise, place the dough in a slightly warm oven. To create a warm environment, preheat your oven to the lowest setting for a few minutes, then turn it off before placing the covered bowl inside.

4. Flavor Variations Don’t hesitate to experiment with additional toppings like sesame seeds, crushed red pepper flakes, or a sprinkle of coarse sea salt before baking to add different textures and flavors.

5. Storage Tip If you have leftovers, store the breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply wrap them in aluminum foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes for that fresh-baked taste.