Cheese-Stuffed Breadsticks

Ingredients

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 2 1/4 teaspoons instant yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1 cup warm water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 12 mozzarella cheese sticks
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian herb blend
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup marinara sauce

Method

1. 1

   In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, instant yeast, and salt.

2. 2

   Add the warm water and olive oil to the dry ingredients and mix until a rough dough forms.

3. 3

   Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead until smooth and elastic, about 6 minutes.

   6:00 · Knead dough
4. 4

   Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot until doubled in size.

5. 5

   Punch down the dough and divide into 12 equal pieces.

6. 6

   Flatten each piece into a 5-inch oval, place a mozzarella cheese stick in the center, and wrap the dough around it, pinching the seams tightly to seal.

7. 7

   Roll each stuffed piece gently between your palms to form an even breadstick shape and place seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spaced 2 inches apart.

8. 8

   Cover loosely and let rest until slightly puffed, about 20 minutes.

   20:00 · Rest breadsticks
9. 9

   Preheat the oven to 400°F.

10. 10

    Bake the breadsticks until golden brown and firm to the touch, 15 to 18 minutes.

    15:00 · Bake breadsticks
11. 11

    While the breadsticks bake, stir together the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian herb blend.

12. 12

    Brush the warm breadsticks with the garlic butter and sprinkle with grated Parmesan.

13. 13

    Let cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

    5:00 · Cool breadsticks