Name: Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 oz. Cabot Monterey Jack cheese; 2 1-pound balls of pizza dough; 4 Tbsp unsalted butter (melted); 1 Tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnishing); ½ tsp kosher salt; ½ tsp dried oregano; ½ tsp garlic powder; Marinara sauce (for dipping)

There's something incredibly satisfying about warm, gooey cheese tucked inside golden, buttery bread. This Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe is just that—and it’s easy enough to whip up for a cozy night in or even for sharing with friends at a casual get-together.

The image shows several golden baked breadsticks with a smooth, slightly browned crust, speckled with small green herb pieces on top. One breadstick in the center is broken open, revealing a soft, cheesy inside with melted white cheese stretching out. The breadsticks rest on light brown parchment paper scattered lightly with green herbs. To the right, there is a white bowl filled with bright red marinara sauce garnished with a few small green herbs. In the background, there are three blurred packages of carrot cheese stacked horizontally. The whole setting is on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Jump to:

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Ingredients & Why They Work
Make It Your Way
Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe
Top Tip
How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe
Make Ahead and Storage
Frequently Asked Questions:
Final Thoughts
Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe

Why You'll Love This Recipe

I’m all about recipes that feel fancy but are honestly so simple to pull off at home. These breadsticks have that perfect balance of crisp edges and a tender dough that holds a melty, flavorful cheesy center. I always find myself craving them whenever I make them!

Loaded with Cheese: Plenty of Monterey Jack inside means every bite is ooey, gooey, and utterly satisfying.
Simple Ingredients: You don’t need a pantry full of fancy items—just a few basics that come together magically.
Fun to Make: Rolling, filling, and cutting these breadsticks is a little hands-on craft that’s actually quite relaxing.
Perfect for Sharing: Whether it’s a family snack or a party appetizer, these breadsticks disappear fast!

The image shows a white marbled surface with a piece of light brown parchment paper scattered with fresh green chopped herbs. On the paper, there are nine golden-baked breadsticks of different sizes and shapes, some long and thin, others short and chunky. Each breadstick has a slightly bubbled, light golden crust with spots of melted cheese and sprinkled green herbs. There is a white square bowl filled with a thick, red tomato sauce garnished with small green herb pieces on the top left corner. The scene captures warm, soft light shining over the breadsticks and sauce, creating a cozy and inviting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Ingredients & Why They Work

Choosing good quality ingredients makes a noticeable difference here. I like using fresh pizza dough from my local grocery or bakery—it rolls out nicely and has a great chew. Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully to form that stretchy center we all want.

Flat lay of two smooth, pale balls of pizza dough, a small stack of long rectangular slices of pale yellow Monterey Jack cheese, a small pile of finely shredded Monterey Jack cheese, a few fresh sprigs of bright green parsley, a small white ceramic bowl filled with melted golden butter, another small white bowl holding vibrant red marinara sauce, arranged with perfect symmetry and balanced proportions, placed on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997

Monterey Jack cheese: This cheese melts evenly and has a mild, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with herbs.
Pizza dough: Use fresh or store-bought—just make sure it’s soft and pliable for easy rolling and sealing.
Unsalted butter: Melting and mixing it with herbs gives your breadsticks that irresistible buttery finish.
Fresh parsley: Adds a fresh, herby brightness to cut through the richness.
Kosher salt: Enhances all the flavors without overwhelming anything.
Dried oregano & garlic powder: Classic Italian-seasoning staples that add depth and aroma.
Marinara sauce: The perfect tangy dip to balance the buttery cheese flavors.

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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.

Make It Your Way

I love switching up the cheese sometimes—mozzarella or provolone work great if you want a slightly different flavor or texture. You could also add a bit of cooked spinach or finely chopped pepperoni inside for a fun twist. Don’t hesitate to make it your own!

Variation: Once, I tossed in some red pepper flakes for a little heat, and wow, that kick paired wonderfully with the creamy cheese.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Cheese Like a Pro

Start by slicing your Monterey Jack into long strips—this helps each breadstick have a generous cheesy center. I find it easiest to cut a couple of blocks lengthwise first, then shred the remaining portion for an extra cheesy sprinkle. Keep these ready before you roll out the dough—trust me, it simplifies the process.

Step 2: Roll Out the Dough

Lightly flour your surface and roll each pizza dough ball into a rectangle roughly 10 by 18 inches. Don’t worry about perfect edges—rustic is charming here. This shape makes it easier to line up the cheese pieces evenly.

Step 3: Layer, Press, and Cut

Lay one dough rectangle on a cutting board then arrange your cheese strips evenly across the length, sprinkle on shredded cheese, then top with the second dough piece. Press firmly around each cheese strip to seal tightly—this stops any cheese from oozing out. Use a pizza cutter or sharp knife to slice between the cheese pieces into 12 individual breadsticks. Pinch the seams firmly where you cut.

Step 4: Bake and Butter ‘Em Up

Pop your breadsticks on parchment-lined baking sheets and bake at 425°F for about 16 to 18 minutes until they’re lightly golden. Meanwhile, mix melted butter with parsley, salt, oregano, and garlic powder. The second they come out of the oven, brush the garlic butter on top while they’re hot—it’s the secret to that irresistible golden shine and flavor boost.

Top Tip

After making this recipe multiple times, I’ve learned a few key tricks that really make a difference in getting those breadsticks just right—melty, buttery, and perfectly sealed.

Seal Tightly: Pinch the dough edges firmly around each cheese piece to prevent leakage during baking.
Roll Evenly: Even thickness means the breadsticks bake at the same rate — avoid overly thin spots or thick lumps.
Brush Immediately: Apply garlic butter right after baking while the breadsticks are hot to maximize flavor absorption and shine.
Don’t Skip Parchment: It keeps cleanup easy and prevents sticking, which is a relief after working so hard on these treats!

How to Serve Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe

cheesy stuffed breadsticks - Serving Suggestion

Garnishes

I love sprinkling a little extra chopped fresh parsley on top just before serving—it adds a pop of color and freshness. Sometimes a tiny shower of grated Parmesan ups the cheesy factor beautifully too.

Side Dishes

These breadsticks are fantastic alongside a crisp Caesar salad or a bowl of hearty soup like tomato basil. And don’t forget the marinara sauce—the dipping makes every bite even more delicious.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, I’ve arranged these breadsticks in a circular wreath shape on a large platter with a bowl of marinara in the center—super cute and everyone loves grabbing one from the “ring.” You could also serve them stacked like logs for a rustic feel.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, I wrap leftovers tightly in plastic wrap then store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They stay delicious for up to 3 days, and I’m always surprised how well they keep their texture.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, these freeze beautifully before baking. Just wrap the stuffed breadsticks tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze. When ready, bake straight from frozen—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

To reheat, I pop them in a 350°F oven for 8-10 minutes to refresh the bread and melt the cheese again. You avoid sogginess that way—and get that fresh-baked crispness back.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use other cheeses in this Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe?

Absolutely! Mozzarella, provolone, or even a sharp cheddar can be swapped in depending on your flavor preferences. Just make sure the cheese melts well.

How do I prevent the cheese from leaking out during baking?

The key is to seal the dough edges tightly around each cheese strip. Pinch and press firmly so there are no gaps where cheese can ooze out as it melts.

What is the best dipping sauce for these breadsticks?

Classic marinara sauce is my go-to because its tanginess pairs perfectly with the buttery, cheesy breadsticks. But ranch or garlic butter can also be delicious options.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the stuffed breadsticks ahead and freeze them before baking. Then bake them from frozen when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Stuffed Breadsticks Recipe holds a special place for me because it blends simplicity with so much deliciousness. I hope you have as much fun making and eating these as I do—and that they become your go-to for cozy nights, snack attacks, or any time you want a warm, cheesy hug from the oven.