There’s something irresistibly comforting about Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks that makes them a beloved favorite among many. These golden, cheesy breadsticks are perfectly soft on the inside, lightly crisped on the outside, and loaded with gooey mozzarella and savory parmesan that simply melts in your mouth. Whether you’re craving a nostalgic snack or a shareable appetizer, making Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks at home is easier than you think and incredibly rewarding. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this classic favorite right in your own kitchen!

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks lies in their simple yet purposeful ingredients. Each one plays an essential role—from the yeasty dough that gives you that fluffy texture to the combination of butters and cheeses that create that iconic flavor and melt.

Granulated sugar: Just the right amount to feed the yeast and add a subtle sweetness to the dough.
All-purpose flour: The backbone of the dough, providing structure and that perfect chewiness.
Active dry yeast: The magical ingredient that makes the dough rise soft and airy.
Kosher salt: Enhances flavor without overpowering the delicate balance.
Warm water (110°F): Activates the yeast while gently combining the dough ingredients.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to both the dough and finishing touch on top for a golden crust.
Egg yolk: Contributes a lovely sheen and helps bind the dough for a tender yet sturdy texture.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The gooey star of the show that delivers that classic cheesy pull.
Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty complement that takes the flavor up a notch.
Dried oregano and garlic salt: Sprinkles of herbs and seasoning to infuse savory notes.
Marinara sauce: The perfect tangy dip to balance out the buttery, cheesy sticks.

How to Make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Activate the yeast

Start by mixing your active dry yeast with half of the warm water warmed to about 110°F. This temperature is just right to wake up the yeast without scalding it, allowing it to become foamy and active in about 5 minutes. This little foamy magic ensures your dough will rise beautifully and have that airy texture you want for perfect cheese sticks.

Step 2: Prepare the dough base

In a large bowl, combine the butter slices, sugar, and kosher salt. Pour in the remaining warm water and let this mixture sit while you wait for your yeast to activate. Once your yeast is foamy, whisk it together lightly with the butter mixture; the butter adds a lovely richness that makes these breadsticks irresistible.

Step 3: Combine and knead

Add in the lightly beaten egg yolk and yeast mixture to your large bowl. Stir in the flour until it just comes together—avoid overmixing to keep the dough tender. This dough has a delicate balance, and minimal kneading preserves the softness while still allowing it to hold shape well.

Step 4: Let the dough rest

Transfer the dough into a buttered 9×13 baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period lets the dough relax and rise slightly, creating that pillow-like softness in the final cheese stick.

Step 5: Add the cheesy toppings and bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap and brush the dough’s surface with the remaining melted butter. Now it’s time for the best part: generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella, parmesan, garlic salt, and oregano on top. Bake for 28 to 31 minutes until the edges turn a deep golden brown and the cheese bubbles up in all its melty glory.

Step 6: Cool and slice

Once the cheese sticks come out of the oven, allow them to cool for about 10 minutes. This short rest helps the cheese set just enough so that when you cut into 8 even pieces, they hold together beautifully without losing that ooey-gooey appeal.

How to Serve Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Garnishes

Simple garnishes can elevate your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks to gourmet snack status. Sprinkle a little freshly chopped parsley or basil for a fresh, herbal pop of color and flavor. A light dusting of extra parmesan on top right before serving adds a salty sharpness that pairs perfectly with the buttery crust.

Side Dishes

These cheese sticks love good company. Serve them alongside a robust marinara dipping sauce that cuts through the richness with its tangy tomato goodness. You can also pair them with a cool Caesar salad or a crisp veggie platter to balance the indulgence. They work wonderfully as appetizers before a big meal or a savory snack any time of day.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks at a party, try arranging them in a circular pattern around a bowl of marinara sauce or stacking them in a basket lined with red-and-white checkered paper for a nostalgic pizzeria vibe. Drizzle with a bit of garlic butter infused with herbs for extra flair. You could also serve with a side of spiced ranch or pesto for dipping variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks make excellent leftovers. Store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to keep the crust from becoming too soggy. For best texture, avoid refrigeration, which can make breadsticks dry and chewy.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy these cheesy treats later, freeze them! Wrap the cheese sticks tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months, preserving the delicious flavors so you can enjoy a quick snack whenever the craving hits.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven texture, reheat your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 8-10 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it tends to make the crust rubbery and the cheese less melty. This way, each bite is as close to freshly baked as possible.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and parmesan give you that classic Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks flavor, you can experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a blend to customize the taste to your liking.

Do I need a bread machine to make the dough?

Nope! This recipe is designed to be mixed and kneaded by hand or with a stand mixer. The dough is forgiving and simple, perfect for bakers of all levels.

Can I make these gluten-free?

For sure! Using a good-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend will work, but you may need to adjust the liquid slightly. Keep an eye on the dough’s consistency to match the softness of the original.

How long do these cheese sticks last after baking?

At room temperature in an airtight container, they stay fresh for about 2 days. Beyond that, quality starts to decline, so it’s best to enjoy them soon after baking or freeze for later.

Is marinara sauce the only dipping option?

Not at all! Ranch, garlic butter sauce, or even a spicy sriracha mayo can add exciting new dimensions to your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks experience.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly magical about recreating beloved classics like Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks at home. With straightforward ingredients and a few simple steps, you can whip up these cheesy delights that bring warmth, nostalgia, and smiles around the table. So don’t wait—grab your ingredients and give this recipe a try. Your taste buds will thank you!

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 10 reviews

Author: Lily
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 cheese sticks 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are a nostalgic, homemade version of the classic golden, crispy breadsticks topped with gooey mozzarella and parmesan cheese, seasoned with garlic and oregano. Perfectly soft inside with a slightly crispy edge, these cheese sticks are ideal for dipping in warm marinara sauce, making them a comforting appetizer or snack reminiscent of childhood favorite takeout treats.

Instructions

Activate Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the yeast with half of the warmed water (heated to 110°F). Let it sit for 5 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is activated.
Prepare Butter Mixture: In a large bowl, place the thinly sliced butter, sugar, and salt. Pour the remaining warm water into the butter mixture and allow it to rest while the yeast activates.
Combine Ingredients: After 5 minutes, whisk the butter mixture until somewhat combined. Add the egg yolk and the activated yeast mixture to the bowl, then stir in the flour until just incorporated, forming a dough.
Prepare Baking Dish: Brush a 9×13 inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of melted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Rest Dough: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes to let the dough slightly rise and relax.
Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is resting.
Add Toppings: Remove plastic wrap from the dough. Brush the top with the remaining melted butter, then generously sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and dried oregano evenly over the surface.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 28-31 minutes, or until the edges turn deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
Cool and Slice: Remove from the oven and allow the cheese sticks to cool for about 10 minutes. Then cut into 8 even sticks.
Serve: Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping to enjoy that classic Pizza Hut cheese stick experience at home.

Notes

Ensure water used for yeast activation is warm (around 110°F) but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
Do not overmix the dough to keep the texture soft and tender.
For extra crispiness, brush the edges with melted butter again halfway through baking.
Use freshly grated cheeses for the best melt and flavor.
Marinara sauce can be homemade or store-bought based on preference.
These cheese sticks are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in an oven for crispiness.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Appetizer
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American