Easy Garlic Bread Sticks for Picky Eaters

ByJamie

These golden bread sticks are crispy on the outside and pillowy soft inside, making them irresistible to kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for dipping in marinara sauce and turn any pasta dinner into something special.

Ingredients

  • 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough
  • 3 tablespoons butter, melted
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for milder flavor)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Pinch of salt
  • Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions

Step 1: Prep for Success Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup. Remove pizza dough from refrigerator and let it come to room temperature for easier handling.

Step 2: Shape the Breadsticks Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle on the parchment paper. Using a pizza cutter or knife, cut into 8-10 strips about 1 inch wide. Gently stretch each strip to about 8 inches long – don’t worry about making them perfect!

Step 3: Create Garlic Butter Magic In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. For picky eaters who might be sensitive to garlic pieces, use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic.

Step 4: Brush and Top Generously brush each breadstick with the garlic butter mixture, making sure to get all the edges. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese while the butter is still wet so it sticks properly.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown and puffed up. The tops should be crispy and the cheese should be melted and slightly golden.

Pro Tips for Picky Eater Success

  • Make Them Mild: Use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic for sensitive taste buds
  • Let Kids Help: They can brush on butter and sprinkle cheese – kids love being involved
  • Individual Portions: Everyone gets their own breadstick to dip and enjoy
  • Familiar Flavors: Keep seasonings simple – butter, garlic, and cheese are kid-friendly classics

Customization Options

For Cheese Lovers:

  • Add mozzarella cheese before baking for extra gooey goodness
  • Try cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile

For Herb-Tolerant Kids:

  • Add fresh parsley after baking for color and mild flavor
  • Try oregano or basil in the butter mixture

For Extra Soft Breadsticks:

  • Brush with more butter halfway through baking
  • Cover with foil for the last 5 minutes if browning too quickly

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping
  • Pair with any pasta dish for complete meal satisfaction
  • Use as mini sandwich bases for picky eaters
  • Serve alongside soup for comforting winter meals

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prep these earlier in the day – cut the dough, brush with butter mixture, and refrigerate covered until ready to bake. Add 2-3 extra minutes to baking time if starting from cold.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover breadsticks keep for 2-3 days wrapped in foil. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore crispiness. Avoid microwaving as it makes them soggy.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Serves: 4-6

These breadsticks prove that sometimes the simplest sides make the biggest impression. When kids are excited about bread, they’re more likely to try the main dish too!

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