Garlic Butter Breadsticks
Soft, buttery garlic breadsticks made from scratch using pizza dough, brushed with a fragrant garlic butter mixture, and optionally topped with Parmesan and herbs. Perfect as a snack, side dish, or appetizer for any meal.
Equipment
- 1 Rimmed baking sheet
- 1 small pot for butter
- 1 pizza cutter
- 1 stand mixer (optional, for homemade dough)
- 1 dough hook (if using stand mixer)
- 1 brush for butter
Ingredients
- 1 pound pizza dough homemade or store-bought
- 6 tablespoons salted butter
- 4 cloves garlic pressed or minced
- 1 –2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley optional
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning optional
- Salt to taste (optional)
- 2 –3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese optional
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 450ºF (230ºC) and allow it to preheat completely. This ensures the breadsticks bake evenly and develop a golden, slightly crisp exterior while staying soft and fluffy inside. Lightly grease a rimmed baking sheet with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Shape the Dough: Place your pizza dough, either homemade or store-bought, on a clean, lightly floured surface. Gently stretch or roll the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick. Ensure the thickness is consistent throughout so each breadstick bakes uniformly. Avoid overworking the dough, as this can make it dense instead of soft and airy.
- Cut the Breadsticks: Using a sharp pizza cutter or knife, slice the dough into sticks. First, cut down the center lengthwise to create two halves, then make horizontal cuts to form sticks approximately ½ to 1 inch wide. Transfer the sticks to the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between them to allow for slight expansion during baking.
- Prepare Garlic Butter Mixture: In a small saucepan, melt 6 tablespoons of salted butter over medium heat. Remove from heat once melted to avoid burning the butter. Stir in 4 cloves of freshly minced or pressed garlic until fully combined. This step infuses the butter with rich garlic flavor without turning it bitter. Optionally, add a pinch of salt or herbs for extra flavor.
- Brush the Dough: Use a pastry brush to generously coat each breadstick with the warm garlic butter. Let some butter pool around the edges for added richness. Reserve a small portion of the butter to brush on the breadsticks immediately after baking for a glossy, flavorful finish.
- Add Optional Toppings: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes over the buttered dough if desired. These toppings enhance both flavor and presentation but can be adjusted according to your preference.
- Bake the Breadsticks: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 8 minutes. Keep an eye on them, as ovens vary. The breadsticks are done when they turn a beautiful golden-brown on top and feel slightly firm while remaining soft inside. Avoid overbaking to maintain a fluffy texture.
- Final Butter Glaze: Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them with the reserved garlic butter. This step adds extra flavor, moisture, and shine. Be generous with the brush for a rich, aromatic finish.
- Serve and Enjoy: Arrange the breadsticks on a serving plate and serve warm. They are perfect alongside pasta dishes, soups, or salads, and also make a delightful snack on their own. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently before serving to retain softness.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh garlic rather than pre-minced or powdered; it provides a more vibrant flavor and aroma.
- Ensure your dough is evenly stretched to ½ inch thickness so the breadsticks bake uniformly.
- Brushing butter both before and after baking intensifies the richness and keeps the breadsticks soft.
- Optional toppings such as parsley, Parmesan, or red pepper flakes can be adjusted to taste or omitted entirely.
- These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated gently in the oven or air fryer to maintain softness.
