Mediterranean Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks
Time: 20–25 minutes
Serves: 4–6
These Mediterranean Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are soft on the inside with a golden, buttery crust and loaded with melted, flavorful cheese. Infused with garlic and herbs, they are perfect as an appetizer, side dish, or snack. Quick and easy to make, they bring a comforting, savory touch to any meal, especially pasta, soups, or salads.
Ingredients
Bread:
1 loaf of French bread, Italian bread, or similar
Garlic Butter Mixture:
4 tbsp softened butter
2–3 cloves garlic, minced (or 1 tsp garlic powder)
1 tsp Italian herbs or parsley
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Cheese:
½ cup shredded mozzarella
¼ cup shredded cheddar
2 tbsp grated Parmesan
Instructions
Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Prepare the bread:
Slice the loaf in half lengthwise.
Place the halves on a baking sheet, cut side up.
Make the garlic butter mixture:
In a small bowl, combine softened butter, minced garlic, Italian herbs or parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Spread butter and add cheese:
Spread the garlic butter evenly over the cut sides of the bread.
Sprinkle mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan evenly on top.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
For a golden-brown top, broil for an additional 1–2 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
Serve:
Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
Slice into breadsticks and serve warm as a side or appetizer.
Tips & Variations
Bread Options
Use a fresh, sturdy loaf such as French, Italian, or ciabatta.
For softer breadsticks, choose a loaf with a tender crumb. For a crunchier texture, slightly stale bread works well.
Garlic Butter Tips
Use fresh minced garlic for a bright, robust flavor. Garlic powder works if fresh isn’t available.
Soften the butter completely for easy spreading and even flavor.
Mix in finely chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, oregano, or basil for extra Mediterranean aroma.
Cheese Variations
Use a combination of mozzarella for melt, cheddar for sharpness, and Parmesan for nuttiness.
Optional additions: provolone, gouda, or a sprinkle of feta for a Mediterranean twist.
Adjust the cheese quantity to your taste—more cheese gives a gooier result.
Baking Tips
Bake until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly. Broiling briefly creates a golden, slightly crisp top.
Keep a close eye when broiling to avoid burning the cheese.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside soups, pasta, salads, or as a snack with marinara or pesto for dipping.
Can be sliced into thin sticks for finger food at parties or gatherings.
Make-Ahead Tips
Prepare the garlic butter in advance and store in the fridge.
Breadsticks can be assembled and refrigerated for up to 4 hours before baking.
Leftovers can be reheated in the oven for a few minutes to refresh the crispiness.
Q&A
Q: Can I use frozen bread?
Yes, but thaw completely before spreading the garlic butter to ensure even melting and crisping.
Q: Can I make this vegan?
Yes. Use vegan butter and plant-based cheeses. Flavor and texture will remain satisfying.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Spread the garlic butter and sprinkle the cheese on the bread, then cover and refrigerate for a few hours. Bake just before serving.
Q: Can I make this low-carb?
You can substitute the bread with low-carb bread or a flatbread. The result will be less fluffy but still flavorful.
Q: How can I add more flavor?
Sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat.
Add garlic powder, smoked paprika, or herbs for a deeper flavor.
A drizzle of olive oil before baking can enhance aroma and taste.
Nutrition
(Per serving – based on 4 servings)
Calories: ~280
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
(Values may vary depending on the type of bread and cheese used.)
Conclusion
Mediterranean Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are a quick, flavorful, and versatile treat. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and loaded with garlic, herbs, and gooey cheese, they complement soups, salads, or pasta perfectly. With easy customization through cheeses, herbs, and optional spices, they bring a simple yet irresistible Mediterranean-inspired flair to any meal or snack time.