Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe

There’s something magical about the combination of sourdough and cheese—especially when it turns into warm, golden-brown breadsticks that are crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. These Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are the perfect way to use up that extra sourdough discard, creating a snack that’s both delicious and easy to make.

If you love homemade bread but don’t have the time for a full sourdough loaf, these breadsticks come together quickly, with no long fermentation needed. The result? Cheesy, garlicky goodness in every bite!

Why You’ll Love These Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

• Easy way to use sourdough discard – No waste, just flavor-packed breadsticks.
• Crispy outside, soft and cheesy inside – The perfect texture contrast.
• Minimal ingredients, maximum flavor – Simple pantry staples make magic happen.
• Kid-friendly and crowd-pleasing – Great for snack time, parties, or alongside dinner.
• Customizable – Use different cheeses, herbs, or dips to mix things up.

The taste? Think of your favorite cheesy garlic bread but with a slight tang from the sourdough that makes these even more irresistible!

Ingredients for Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

You’ll need just a handful of ingredients:

• 1 cup sourdough discard (unfed starter)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup warm water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, or a blend)
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/4 cup melted butter (for brushing)
• Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for garnish

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

• Large mixing bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or dough whisk
• Rolling pin
• Sharp knife or pizza cutter
• Baking sheet
• Parchment paper

Ingredient Substitutions & Additions

• Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for bread flour for a chewier texture.
• Cheese: Try gouda, pepper jack, or even feta for a unique twist.
• Herbs & Seasonings: Add Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, or chili flakes for extra flavor.
• Butter Alternative: Use garlic-infused olive oil for brushing instead of butter.

How to Make Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

1. Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl, combine sourdough discard, flour, warm water, olive oil, salt, sugar, and baking powder. Stir until a shaggy dough forms.

Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little flour as needed.

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rest for 1 hour.

2. Shape the Breadsticks

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Roll out the dough into a rectangle, about 1/4-inch thick.

Sprinkle shredded cheese, garlic powder, and oregano evenly over the dough.

Fold the dough in half lengthwise, pressing down gently to seal the cheese inside.

Cut into 1-inch-wide strips using a sharp knife or pizza cutter.

3. Twist and Bake

Take each strip, twist it gently, and place it on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Brush the twisted dough with melted butter and sprinkle with extra cheese if you like.

Bake for 15-18 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown.

4. Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and immediately brush with more melted butter for extra richness.

Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a final touch.

Serve warm with marinara sauce, ranch, or garlic butter for dipping.

this Recipe

What to Serve with Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks

These breadsticks are amazing on their own, but they’re even better with:

• Sweet and Sour Sauce – A perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.
• Easy Béchamel Sauce – A creamy dip that elevates the breadsticks.
• Mexican Soup – A hearty, flavorful pairing for a comforting meal.

Tips for Perfect Breadsticks

• Use a pizza cutter for easy and even slicing of the dough.
• Twist gently so the cheese doesn’t spill out while baking.
• Don’t skip the butter brushing – It adds flavor and a beautiful golden color.
• Bake on parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
• Let them cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth on the molten cheese.

How to Store & Reheat Breadsticks

• To store: Keep leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• To reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes or in an air fryer for 2-3 minutes until crispy again.

Pro Tip: You can also freeze them! Just wrap in foil and store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in a 375°F oven for 10-12 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these without sourdough discard?

Yes! Replace the sourdough discard with an extra 1/4 cup water and 1/4 cup flour to get a similar texture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Absolutely! Make the dough up to 24 hours in advance, store it covered in the fridge, and roll it out when ready to bake.

Can I make these gluten-free?

You can try using a gluten-free flour blend, but the texture may be slightly different. A sourdough starter made from gluten-free flour would work best.

Can I use whole wheat flour?

Yes, but use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour to keep the texture soft.

Can I air-fry these?

Definitely! Air fry at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

Final Thoughts: A Cheesy, Crispy Delight

These Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks are the ultimate snack or side dish. Whether you’re using up sourdough discard or just craving something cheesy and garlicky, this recipe is a winner every time.

Try them out, and don’t forget to share your creations! Leave a comment, post a photo on Pinterest, or tag me if you make them—I’d love to see how they turn out.

Looking for more delicious recipes? Try these next:

• Sweet and Sour Sauce – A deliciously tangy and sweet dip.
• Easy Béchamel Sauce – A creamy classic for pasta, bread, and more.
• Mexican Soup – A hearty, comforting dish that pairs wonderfully with breadsticks.

Enjoy baking, and happy snacking!

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