Introduction

These Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are a delicious homemade treat that capture the cheesy, buttery goodness you love from the restaurant. Soft, flavorful dough topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan makes for the perfect snack or appetizer. Serve them warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Eight rectangular breadsticks are neatly arranged on a white rectangular plate with a white marbled texture underneath. Each breadstick has a golden-brown melted cheese layer on top, dotted with browned spots, showing a bubbly texture. The cheese layer is sprinkled with small bits of green herbs. In the background, there are two small white round bowls filled with red dipping sauces, slightly blurred to keep focus on the breadsticks. The overall look is warm and appetizing. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon granulated sugar (can be reduced for less sweetness)
3 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be used)
2 teaspoons active dry yeast (instant yeast can replace)
1 teaspoon kosher salt (can be reduced if sodium is a concern)
4 tablespoons unsalted butter (can be replaced with olive oil)
1 large egg yolk (a flax egg can be used for vegan)
1 teaspoon dried oregano (substitute with Italian seasoning or basil)
1 teaspoon garlic salt (fresh minced garlic can be an alternative)
2 cups mozzarella cheese (alternatives include provolone or Monterey Jack)
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast can be used as a dairy-free option)
1 cup marinara sauce (any favorite sauce like ranch or barbecue works)

Instructions

Step 1: Begin by combining the active dry yeast with half of the warm water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy.
Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, stir together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, kosher salt, and the remaining warm water. Add the egg yolk and the foamy yeast mixture, then gradually mix in the all-purpose flour until just combined into a dough.
Step 3: Generously brush a 9×13 baking dish with melted butter. Press the prepared dough evenly into the dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let rise in a warm place for 15 minutes. Meanwhile, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 4: After the dough has risen, remove the plastic wrap and brush the top with remaining melted butter. Sprinkle evenly with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and dried oregano.
Step 5: Bake in the preheated oven for 28 to 31 minutes until the cheese is melted and the breadsticks are golden brown.
Step 6: Allow the cheese sticks to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting them into portions. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Tips & Variations

For a vegan version, use flax egg instead of egg yolk and dairy-free cheese alternatives.
Try mixing Italian seasoning with the oregano for extra herb flavor.
Brush the finished cheese sticks with garlic butter for an extra rich taste.
Substitute marinara sauce with ranch or barbecue sauce for different dipping options.

Storage

Store leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 350°F oven or toaster oven for 5–7 minutes to restore crispness. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

How to Serve

The image shows several golden-brown breadsticks with a crispy texture, arranged in two neat rows on a metal tray lined with parchment paper. The breadsticks have a sprinkling of herbs and melted cheese on top, giving them a slightly rough and crunchy look. Next to the breadsticks, there are two small white bowls, one filled with coarse salt that looks bright white and flaky, and the other with thick, red marinara sauce. A woman's hand is dipping a breadstick into the sauce, with the breadstick tilted slightly and showing a soft inside. The background is a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes, instant yeast can be used as a direct substitute. You can mix it with the dry ingredients without proofing in water first.

What can I do if I don’t have garlic salt?

You can use fresh minced garlic mixed with a pinch of salt as an alternative. Add it before baking for a similar flavor.