Parmesan Garlic Breadsticks Sauce

Warm garlicky breadsticks paired with a luscious Parmesan sauce is one of those simple pleasures that can turn any meal into something special Whether you serve these with pasta a big salad or on pizza night they tend to disappear fast This recipe is my reliable way to get bakery style breadsticks with the creamiest dipping sauce right from the comfort of home

I baked my first batch for a cozy movie night and now everyone expects fresh breadsticks for Fridays If you love buttery garlicky bread these will be on repeat too

Ingredients

• Pizza dough: gives that classic chewy texture and makes it simple Use a good quality dough from a bakery or take time to knead your own for extra flavor
• Unsalted butter: brings richness and golden color Choose a creamy European style if possible
• Grated Parmesan cheese: is sharp and nutty Use freshly grated for the best melt and taste
• Garlic powder: adds big flavor in a pinch Go for one labeled pure with no fillers
• Dried oregano: is optional but brings Italian vibes Pick a fresh packet for the most aroma
• Salt: is key for enhancing flavors Use flaky or fine depending on texture preference
• Flour: helps thicken the dipping sauce Pick an all purpose flour for smooth results
• Whole milk: gives the sauce its velvety base Always use fresh milk for that creamy finish
• Cream cheese: adds a silky tanginess in the sauce Choose full fat for lush mouthfeel
• White pepper: brings warmth without too much heat Try a touch at first and adjust to taste
• Nutmeg or garlic (optional): for the sauce can take the flavor from simple to wow Freshly grated nutmeg or a pinch of minced garlic makes a big difference

Step by Step Instructions

Make the Dough Strips:

Roll out your pizza dough on a lightly floured surface to roughly half an inch thickness Use a sharp knife or pizza wheel to slice into even strips about one inch wide

Shape the Breadsticks:

Gently twist each dough strip or keep them straight for traditional breadsticks Lay them on a parchment lined baking sheet with space between each so they can bake up golden

Brush with Butter:

Melt the butter then use a pastry brush to give each breadstick a generous coat The butter not only gives flavor but also helps the cheese to stick

Top with Cheese and Seasonings:

Sprinkle each strip with a thick layer of grated Parmesan garlic powder dried oregano if using and a light touch of salt Press lightly so the toppings cling Stick with Parmesan up top for max melt

Bake to Perfection:

Place breadsticks in a hot oven at two hundred degrees Celsius or four hundred Fahrenheit Bake for twelve to fifteen minutes Keep an eye on the color You want golden exteriors and slightly crispy edges

Make the Velvety Dipping Sauce:

In a small saucepan gently melt butter over medium low heat Add flour and whisk constantly for one minute to cook out the raw flavor You are looking for a smooth paste without browning

Finish the Sauce:

Slowly pour in whole milk whisking all the while until the sauce begins to thicken Lower the heat and stir in grated Parmesan and cream cheese Let these melt until the sauce is ultra smooth Season with salt white pepper and if you like a pinch of fresh nutmeg or minced garlic

Serve Warm:

Pile breadsticks on a platter Keep the sauce warm in a ceramic bowl or dark wooden cup Dip and enjoy while the breadsticks are still hot for best texture

Save

I always look forward to adding a dusting of garlic powder because it takes them from good to irresistible My little one once called these magic wands after twirling one in the sauce so now that is the family name

Storage Tips

Once cooled leftover breadsticks can be wrapped in foil or placed in an air tight container They keep well refrigerated for up to three days To reheat use a hot oven for a few minutes to bring back the exterior crunch The sauce also stores well just reheat slowly and add a splash of milk if needed to loosen

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cream cheese mascarpone will make the sauce extra smooth Plant based butter and dairy free cheese can be swapped in for a lactose free version Try Italian hard cheese instead of Parmesan if you are out or sprinkle shredded mozzarella for extra pull

Serving Suggestions

Aside from pasta serve these breadsticks alongside a big Caesar salad with soup on a chilly night or as an appetizer for gatherings The dipping sauce works wonders as a topping for baked potatoes or grilled veggies

Cultural History

Breadsticks or grissini are classic in Italy especially in northern regions They were traditionally hand rolled and oven baked in large brick ovens Today they are found everywhere from bakeries to home kitchens around the world Each region has its twist but always with that irresistible golden crust

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I twist breadsticks for a classic look?

After slicing the dough, gently twist each strip before placing it on the baking tray. This adds a rustic touch and helps trap buttery flavors in the folds.

→ What makes the dipping sauce velvety?

Combining cream cheese and slowly whisked whole milk with melted butter and flour creates a smooth, rich sauce perfect for dipping.

→ Can I use other cheeses instead of Parmesan?

Yes, Asiago or Pecorino Romano can add different sharp notes, but Parmesan’s nutty flavor makes it the ideal match.

→ How can I enhance the breadsticks' flavor?

Add a sprinkle of dried oregano, extra garlic powder, or even fresh chopped herbs before baking for more depth and aroma.

→ Is store-bought dough suitable?

Store-bought pizza dough works well and saves time, but homemade dough delivers a fresher taste and texture if preferred.