Cheesy Breadstick Bones are a fun and tasty twist on your classic breadstick. Soft, warm dough filled with gooey cheese, shaped like little bones that are perfect for snacking or sharing at a party. The melted cheese inside adds a great flavor and a delightful stretch every time you pull them apart.
I love making these because they’re super simple and bring a smile to everyone’s face, especially kids. I usually sneak in a little extra cheese because, honestly, who can say no to that? Plus, shaping them like bones adds a playful touch that works great for Halloween or themed get-togethers.
My favorite way to serve these is with a side of marinara sauce for dipping—it adds a little zing that pairs perfectly with the cheese. They’re also great fresh out of the oven or even reheated the next day if there are any leftovers, which doesn’t happen often because they disappear quickly!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pizza dough: Using refrigerated pizza dough keeps things easy and saves time. If you prefer, homemade dough works great too, just make sure it’s soft and easy to roll out.
Mozzarella cheese: This cheese melts beautifully and gives a stretchy, gooey texture. If you want a sharper flavor, try mixing in some cheddar or provolone.
Butter and seasonings: Butter adds richness and helps the seasoning stick. Garlic powder and Italian seasoning give great flavor, but fresh garlic or herbs like basil or oregano can be nice swaps.
Parmesan cheese: This adds a salty, nutty finish on top. You can use Pecorino Romano or skip it if you’re avoiding dairy, but the topping really lifts the taste.
Marinara sauce: Perfect for dipping and adds a bit of tang. If you prefer, ranch or a spicy ketchup can be a fun alternative.
How Can I Shape the Breadstick Bones Easily?
Getting the bone shape just right is simple once you know the trick! After sealing the cheese inside, gently pinch the dough at both ends of each strip, making them a bit wider and rounder than the center.
- Keep the center slimmer to create that bone “shaft” look.
- Be careful not to tear the dough while pinching; seal well so cheese doesn’t leak out.
- If the dough sticks to your fingers, lightly flour them to keep it smooth.
- Practice on one or two strips first, then you’ll get the hang of it quickly.
This shaping adds a fun twist and also helps the breadsticks bake evenly, creating a chewy and cheesy treat everyone will enjoy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Baking sheet – I recommend one with a rim to hold everything in and bake evenly.
- Parchment paper – keeps the breadsticks from sticking and makes cleanup easier.
- Rolling pin – helps you gently stretch the dough into an even rectangle.
- Knife or pizza cutter – for cutting the dough into strips; I like a pizza cutter for quick, clean cuts.
- Small brush – used to apply the butter mixture for that flavorful, golden finish.
- Measuring spoons and cup – for accurate seasoning and cheese portions.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap mozzarella with cheddar, pepper jack, or a mix for different flavor profiles. Great for spicy or sharper tastes.
- Add cooked bacon bits or sliced pepperoni inside the dough for a meaty twist.
- Mix in chopped herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano to boost aroma and freshness.
- Spice things up with a pinch of red pepper flakes in the butter before brushing.
Cheesy Breadstick Bones
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Dough and Cheese:
- 1 tube (16 oz) refrigerated pizza dough or breadstick dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Seasoning and Topping:
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Serving:
- Marinara sauce, for dipping
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 12-15 minutes to bake, and a few minutes to cool. So, you can enjoy your warm, cheesy breadstick bones in under 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dough:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it to keep the breadsticks from sticking. On a lightly floured surface, unroll the pizza dough and gently stretch it into a rectangle.
2. Shape the Cheese-Filled Breadsticks:
Cut the dough into strips about 1 to 1.5 inches wide and 5 inches long. Place about 1 tablespoon of shredded mozzarella cheese in the center of each strip. Fold the dough over the cheese and pinch the edges tightly to seal, creating a cigar shape.
Now, to make the “bone” shape, pinch and squeeze both ends of each dough-filled strip to make them slightly wider and rounded, while keeping the center narrower, just like a bone.
3. Season and Bake:
Place the shaped breadstick bones on your prepared baking sheet. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and Italian seasoning or parsley. Brush this savory mixture generously over the tops of the breadsticks, and then sprinkle each one with grated Parmesan cheese.
Bake in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until the breadsticks are golden brown and the cheese inside is melted and gooey.
4. Cool and Serve:
Remove the breadstick bones from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes so you don’t burn your fingers! Serve them warm with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy!
These cheesy breadstick bones are fun, simple to make, and perfect for any occasion. They’re a crowd-pleaser whether at a party or just a cozy night in!
Can I Use Frozen Dough for This Recipe?
Yes! Just be sure to thaw the frozen dough completely in the refrigerator overnight before using. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before rolling it out to make shaping easier.
Can I Substitute the Mozzarella Cheese?
Absolutely! You can use any melty cheese like cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack. Mixing cheeses can also add extra flavor. Just be sure to use shredded cheese for easy melting.
How Do I Store Leftover Breadstick Bones?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes to keep them crispy and melty inside.
What Can I Use Instead of Marinara Sauce?
If you’re looking for something different, ranch dressing, garlic butter, or a spicy ketchup dip also pair well with these cheesy breadsticks!
