Homemade Pizza Hut Breadsticks

This homemade version of Pizza Hut cheese sticks brings that iconic restaurant flavor right to your kitchen. The soft, buttery crust topped with bubbling cheese and savory seasonings creates those nostalgic breadsticks we all crave without having to order takeout.

I first made these during a football playoff weekend when delivery was backed up for hours. My friends now request these instead of ordering the real thing, claiming they taste even better knowing they're homemade.

Ingredients

• Granulated sugar awakens the yeast and creates a tender texture in the dough
• All purpose flour provides the perfect structure for a chewy yet soft breadstick
• Active dry yeast gives the signature Pizza Hut rise without complicated techniques
• Kosher salt enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness
• Unsalted butter in the dough and as a topping creates that rich buttery flavor
• Egg yolk adds richness and helps create that golden color
• Mozzarella cheese is the star use freshly shredded for best melting quality
• Parmesan cheese adds that savory umami flavor that makes these irresistible
• Dried oregano and garlic salt create that signature Pizza Hut flavor profile
• Marinara sauce for dipping completes the authentic experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Activate the Yeast

Combine the yeast with half of the warm water in a small bowl and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy. Make sure your water is exactly 110°F too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won't activate it properly.

Prepare the Butter Base

Place the thinly sliced butter, sugar, and salt in a large bowl. Pour the remaining warm water over this mixture and let it sit while the yeast activates. This begins melting the butter and dissolving the sugar for easier mixing.

Combine Wet Ingredients

After your yeast is foamy, whisk the butter mixture until somewhat combined. The butter may not fully incorporate yet and that is perfectly fine. Add the egg yolk and activated yeast mixture to the bowl.

Form the Dough

Stir in the flour until just incorporated. The dough will be soft and somewhat sticky. Avoid overmixing as this will develop too much gluten and make your breadsticks tough.

Prepare Baking Dish

Brush a 9×13 baking dish generously with 2 tablespoons of melted butter. This creates that crispy golden bottom that Pizza Hut breadsticks are known for.

Rest the Dough

Spread the dough evenly in the prepared dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes. This short rest allows the gluten to relax and the yeast to begin working.

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap from the dough and brush the top with the remaining melted butter.

Add Toppings

Generously sprinkle the dough with mozzarella, parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano. Be sure to spread the cheese all the way to the edges for those crispy cheese corners.

Bake to Perfection

Bake for 28-31 minutes until the edges are deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbly. The browning at the edges indicates that perfect Pizza Hut flavor is developing.

Rest and Serve

Allow the breadsticks to cool for 10 minutes before cutting into 8 even pieces. This resting period allows the cheese to set slightly so it doesn't all slide off when cutting. Serve warm with marinara sauce.

Bookmark

The secret to getting that authentic Pizza Hut taste is in the butter. I discovered that brushing butter both underneath and on top of the dough creates that distinctive rich flavor that keeps people coming back for more. My family has a tradition of making these on Friday movie nights, and watching my kids' faces light up when they smell these baking is absolutely priceless.

Make-Ahead Options

These cheese sticks can be prepared up to the baking stage and refrigerated covered for up to 24 hours. Simply let them come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This makes them perfect for entertaining when you want to prepare food in advance. The dough itself can also be made up to 2 days ahead and kept in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature before spreading in your baking dish.

Perfect Pairings

While marinara is the classic dipping companion, these cheese sticks are versatile enough to pair with numerous sauces. Try ranch dressing, garlic butter, pesto, or even a spicy buffalo sauce for variety. For a complete meal, serve these alongside a simple green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness. They also make an excellent accompaniment to soups, particularly tomato or minestrone, creating a restaurant-quality lunch or light dinner.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your dough isn't rising properly, your yeast might be old or your water temperature incorrect. Always check the expiration date on your yeast and use a thermometer to ensure your water is exactly 110°F. If your cheese is browning too quickly but the dough isn't fully cooked, cover loosely with foil for the remaining baking time. This protects the top while allowing the dough to finish cooking through.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough up to 24 hours in advance. After spreading it in the baking dish, cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before adding toppings and baking.

→ What's the best cheese to use for authentic Pizza Hut flavor?

For the most authentic taste, use whole milk mozzarella cheese and real Parmigiano-Reggiano or good quality parmesan. Pre-shredded mozzarella works well, but freshly shredded will melt more evenly.

→ Can I freeze these cheese sticks?

Yes, they freeze well after baking. Cool completely, cut into sticks, and freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes until warmed through.

→ What can I substitute for marinara sauce?

While marinara is traditional, you can serve these cheese sticks with ranch dressing, garlic butter sauce, alfredo sauce, or even a spicy arrabiata for variety.

→ Why isn't my dough rising much?

This particular dough doesn't require a long rise time - just 15 minutes of rest. The recipe uses a higher fat content and less yeast than traditional pizza dough to achieve Pizza Hut's signature texture. Make sure your yeast is fresh and your water temperature is around 110°F for best results.

→ How do I know when they're perfectly done?

Look for deep golden brown edges and bubbly, slightly browned cheese on top. The bottom should be crisp and golden when you lift a corner with a spatula. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven.