Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and even shape the breadsticks earlier in the day, keeping them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the toppings and bake. You can also fully bake them ahead of time and reheat when needed, though they're at their very best fresh from the oven.

What can I use if I don't have Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn't available, regular plain yogurt will work, though you may need to add a bit more flour as it's less thick. Sour cream is another good substitute that maintains that tangy flavor. In a pinch, you can also use prepared pizza dough from the store.

Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dough, olive oil instead of butter, and either skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute. The garlic and herb flavors will still make these delicious even without dairy.

Why did my breadsticks turn out tough?

The most common cause is overworking the dough. Mix just until the ingredients come together for tender breadsticks. Also, be sure not to overbake them, as this can dry them out and make them tough.

Homemade Garlic Breadsticks Recipe

Name: Homemade Garlic Breadsticks Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American-Italian fusion
Ingredients: 1 batch Greek yogurt dough (see notes) or 1 pound any pizza dough; 1/4 cup butter, melted (or olive oil for vegan option); 3 tablespoons garlic, minced; 1/2 cup shredded cheese (use plant-based cheese for vegan option); 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning (plus extra for garnish)

These incredible homemade garlic breadsticks are a game-changer for your dinner table! With a perfectly chewy texture, fragrant garlic butter coating, and a blanket of melted cheese, they’re irresistibly good. The best part? They come together in just 20 minutes using simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether paired with your favorite pasta dish or enjoyed as a standalone snack, these breadsticks will have everyone reaching for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ridiculously Easy: Using Greek yogurt dough means no yeast, no rising time, and no complicated steps. Just mix, shape, top, and bake!
Fast Solution: From start to finish in 20 minutes flat, making these perfect for those “I need bread with dinner but forgot to plan ahead” moments.
Customizable: The basic recipe is fantastic, but you can easily adapt it with different herbs, cheese types, or even add some heat.
Kid-Friendly: These breadsticks are a hit with the little ones and they can even help make them, turning dinner prep into family fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Greek yogurt dough: Creates a fantastic no-yeast base that’s quick to prepare and delivers a satisfying chew. The tanginess adds complexity to the flavor profile.
Butter: Adds richness and helps create that gorgeous golden crust. It’s the perfect vehicle for the garlic flavor.
Garlic: The star of the show! Fresh minced garlic infuses these breadsticks with incredible aroma and flavor. Don’t be shy with it.
Shredded cheese: Creates that irresistible pull-apart quality and adds savory depth. Choose a cheese that melts well for best results.
Italian seasoning: Brings in herbal notes that complement the garlic perfectly and add visual appeal.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Different Dough Options

If Greek yogurt dough isn’t your thing, use store-bought pizza dough, crescent roll dough, or your favorite homemade pizza dough recipe.

Flavor Twists

Everything Bagel: Sprinkle everything bagel seasoning on top for a deliciously savory variation.
Cinnamon Sugar: Skip the garlic and cheese, brush with butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet version.
Pesto Breadsticks: Replace some of the garlic butter with a thin layer of pesto for an herbaceous twist.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic butter mixture for heat-lovers.

How to Make Garlic Breadsticks

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dough

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking tray with parchment paper. Combine Greek yogurt with flour until you have a smooth dough. This will come together quickly without the fuss of traditional yeasted dough.

Step 2: Shape and Prepare

Shape the dough into a rough rectangle directly on your lined baking tray. No need for perfection here! Lightly brush the entire surface with a bit of butter or olive oil to create a base layer.

Step 3: Add the Garlic Butter and Toppings

Mix your melted butter with minced garlic in a small bowl. Brush this fragrant mixture generously over the dough, leaving a half-inch border around the edges. Sprinkle cheese evenly across the top, then dust with Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake for 15-17 minutes, until the edges turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted. The kitchen will smell absolutely amazing at this point!

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Remove from the oven, sprinkle with a little more Italian herbs for that fresh pop of color and flavor. While still warm, slice into sticks using a pizza cutter and serve immediately for maximum enjoyment.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overwork the Dough: Mix just until combined for tender breadsticks. Overworking creates tough results.
Fresh Garlic Matters: While garlic powder works in a pinch, fresh minced garlic delivers significantly better flavor and aroma.
Cheese Selection: A mixture of mozzarella and parmesan creates the perfect blend of stretch and flavor, but use what you have and love.
Even Thickness: Try to shape your dough to a consistent thickness throughout for even baking.
Check Early: Every oven is different, so start checking around 12 minutes to avoid over-browning.

How to Serve

These versatile garlic breadsticks work beautifully alongside so many dishes:

Dipping Sauces

Serve with warm marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a rich pomodoro for dipping. For something different, try hot honey sauce for a sweet-spicy kick!

Perfect Pairings

These breadsticks are the ideal companion to:

Hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs or fettuccine alfredo
Soups and stews (try dunking them in tomato soup!)
Salads to make a lighter meal more satisfying
Charcuterie boards for a homemade touch

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4-5 days. They’ll stay fresh and reheat beautifully when you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

These breadsticks freeze exceptionally well! Simply wrap the cooled breadsticks in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep for up to 2 months, ready whenever a breadstick craving strikes.

Reheating

For that fresh-baked taste, reheat in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes or air fry at 375°F for 5-6 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. While microwaving works in a pinch, you’ll lose some of that wonderful texture.

FAQs

Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and even shape the breadsticks earlier in the day, keeping them covered in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply add the toppings and bake. You can also fully bake them ahead of time and reheat when needed, though they’re at their very best fresh from the oven.
What can I use if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

If Greek yogurt isn’t available, regular plain yogurt will work, though you may need to add a bit more flour as it’s less thick. Sour cream is another good substitute that maintains that tangy flavor. In a pinch, you can also use prepared pizza dough from the store.
Can I make these dairy-free?

Yes! Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative for the dough, olive oil instead of butter, and either skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese substitute. The garlic and herb flavors will still make these delicious even without dairy.
Why did my breadsticks turn out tough?

The most common cause is overworking the dough. Mix just until the ingredients come together for tender breadsticks. Also, be sure not to overbake them, as this can dry them out and make them tough.

Final Thoughts

These homemade garlic breadsticks might just become your new kitchen staple! They’re remarkably easy to whip up on busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for company. The combination of buttery garlic goodness and cheesy topping creates something far more delicious than the sum of its simple parts. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite pasta or just enjoying them as a snack, they bring that special homemade touch that everyone appreciates. Give them a try tonight – your family will thank you!