Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

If you’re looking for a delicious snack that brings joy to any gathering, these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are the perfect treat! They have that irresistible golden, buttery crust and are topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a family gathering, these cheesy delights will surely be a hit. Plus, they pair perfectly with marinara sauce for dipping, making them even more enjoyable!

What I love most about this recipe is how simple it is to whip up. You won’t need any fancy ingredients—just some everyday staples from your pantry. And trust me, once you try these cheesy breadsticks, they’ll become a regular in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just a little prep time, you can have these cheesy sticks ready in under an hour!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the cheesy goodness—perfect for movie nights or casual get-togethers.
• Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake them fresh when you’re ready to serve.
• Deliciously Versatile: Enjoy them as an appetizer or snack; they fit right into any meal plan.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be pleased to know that making these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks requires only simple and wholesome ingredients. No need for anything complicated here—just some pantry basics that come together to create pure comfort food bliss!

For the Dough

• 1 ½ tbsp granulated sugar
• 1 ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp active dry yeast
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• 2 tbsp warm water (110°F), divided
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, thinly sliced
• 1 egg yolk, lightly beaten
• ½ cup warm water (110°F), divided

For Topping

• ¼ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp garlic salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 2 tbsp grated parmesan cheese
• 8 oz shredded mozzarella

For Dipping

• Marinara sauce

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! If you’re feeling adventurous or want to mix things up a bit, here are some fun variations you can try:

• Add Herbs: Sprinkle fresh basil or parsley on top before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
• Cheesy Twist: Incorporate different cheeses like cheddar or gouda along with the mozzarella for a unique taste.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for those who love a bit of heat.
• Stuffed Version: Before baking, place some cooked spinach or artichokes in the center of the dough for a stuffed cheese stick.

How to Make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the yeast with half of the warmed water (heated to 110°F) and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step is crucial because activating the yeast ensures that your dough rises properly.

Step 2: Mix the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, place the thinly sliced butter along with sugar and salt. Pour in the remaining warm water into this mixture and allow it to sit while your yeast is working its magic. The warmth helps melt the butter slightly while blending all flavors together.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

After 5 minutes, whisk the butter mixture until somewhat combined. Then add in the egg yolk and your foamy yeast mixture. Stir in the flour until everything is just incorporated; don’t overmix! This will keep your breadsticks light and fluffy.

Step 4: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Take a 9×13 baking dish and brush it generously with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor right from the start!

Step 5: Let It Rise

Spread your dough evenly in the prepared dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and allow it to rest for about 15 minutes. This gives the dough time to puff up slightly before baking.

Step 6: Preheat Your Oven

While waiting for your dough to rise, preheat your oven to 350°F. A properly heated oven ensures even cooking and browning.

Step 7: Add Toppings

Once rested, remove the plastic wrap from your dough. Brush it with more melted butter on top and generously sprinkle mozzarella cheese along with parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano. This layer of toppings is key to achieving that cheesy goodness everyone loves!

Step 8: Bake Until Golden

Bake for about 28-31 minutes until edges are deep golden brown and cheese is bubbly. Keep an eye on them—this is where they transform into delectable breadsticks!

Step 9: Cool and Slice

Allow your breadsticks to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into eight even pieces. This waiting period helps them set up just right!

Step 10: Serve Warm

Serve warm alongside marinara sauce for dipping—every bite will be worth it! Enjoy these delightful Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks at home; they’re sure to become one of your favorites!

Pro Tips for Making Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Making these cheesy breadsticks can be a delightful experience, and with a few handy tips, you can ensure they turn out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh yeast: Fresh yeast will give your dough a better rise and fluffiness, resulting in the perfect texture for your cheese sticks. Always check the expiration date before using!
• Don’t rush the resting time: Allowing the dough to rest is crucial for developing flavor and texture. This time lets the yeast work its magic, creating light and airy breadsticks.
• Experiment with cheese: While mozzarella is traditional, mixing in other cheeses like cheddar or provolone can add unique flavors and make your cheese sticks even more delicious!
• Brush generously with butter: A good amount of melted butter not only enhances flavor but also helps achieve that golden crust that everyone loves. Don’t skimp on this step!
• Serve hot: These cheese sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven while they’re still warm and gooey. The flavor and texture are at their peak right after baking!

How to Serve Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Serving these delightful cheese sticks is just as fun as making them! Here are some simple yet effective ways to present this crowd-pleasing dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil sprinkled on top adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the cheesy goodness.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a kick, adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper will enhance the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garden Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the cheese sticks.
• Vegetable Platter: Crisp veggies such as carrots, cucumbers, and bell peppers served with hummus or ranch dip provide a refreshing crunch alongside your cheesy treat.
• Garlic Bread: Because who can resist more bread? Rich garlic bread pairs perfectly with marinara sauce for extra dipping joy.
• Stuffed Peppers: These colorful bites filled with rice, beans, and spices offer a hearty contrast to the lighter cheese sticks while still being easy to eat.

With these serving suggestions, you’ll elevate your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks into an irresistible appetizer that will impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make them in advance and have them ready for a quick snack or appetizer anytime.

Storing Leftovers

• Store leftover cheese sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• For longer storage, refrigerate them to keep them fresh for up to a week.

Freezing

• Allow the cheese sticks to cool completely before freezing.
• Wrap each stick individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet and warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
• If reheating from frozen, bake in the oven at 350°F for approximately 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Have questions about making these delightful cheese sticks? Let’s dive into some common queries!

Can I customize my Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite toppings such as herbs or spices, or try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick.

How long do Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks last?

When stored properly, these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks can last up to a week in the refrigerator and can be frozen for up to three months without losing their flavor.

Can I make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cheese. Follow the same recipe steps to enjoy a vegan version of these cheesy delights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to whip up these scrumptious Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks! They are perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying all by yourself. Remember, these cheesy treats are versatile; you can dip them in marinara or any sauce you love. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!