Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe – Taste Just Home

By Mary Lee RD | Published on October 10, 2024

Pizza Hut cheese sticks are a delightful treat on their own, but they can really shine when you pair them with the right accompaniments. A classic marinara sauce is a crowd favorite, offering a tangy, rich dip that plays perfectly against the cheesy goodness.

Another great option is ranch dressing. Its creamy texture and zesty flavor create a fun contrast. For something different, consider adding a spicy sriracha mayo. It adds a kick and is a great conversation starter.

If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh garden salad is a wonderful choice. The crisp veggies and vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the cheese sticks. Finally, don’t forget about a refreshing drink. A chilled iced tea or lemonade complements these cheesy bites beautifully.

Best Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the joy of cheesy goodness. This is especially true with Pizza Hut cheese sticks. They are perfectly baked, stuffed with gooey mozzarella, and served with a dipping sauce that elevates the experience. As a food enthusiast, I’ve spent my fair share of time perfecting this recipe in my own kitchen.

Recreating these delicious cheese sticks at home is not just about the taste; it’s about the experience. The warmth of freshly baked cheese sticks, the aroma wafting through your kitchen, and the satisfaction of sharing them with friends and family bring a whole new level of joy. Trust me; once you try making these at home, you’ll wonder why you didn’t start earlier.

You will also like the following Side Dish recipes!

What is Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?

Pizza Hut cheese sticks are soft, cheesy breadsticks that are golden brown and crispy on the outside. They boast a stretch of melted mozzarella that delights the palate. This recipe closely resembles the famous cheesy appetizer, allowing you to savor its comforting flavors in your kitchen.

Why This Recipe Works?

1. Fresh Ingredients Enhance Flavor
Using fresh ingredients like new mozzarella cheese and unsalted butter makes a significant difference. The flavor is vibrant and genuine. Freshly chopped basil also adds an aromatic touch that elevates each bite.

2. Easy to Follow Instructions
Even if you’re not a seasoned cook, this recipe is simple. Each step is clearly laid out and can be tackled by anyone. Plus, making the cheese sticks is a fun project for families or friends to enjoy together.

3. Customizable to Your Taste
This recipe allows for adjustments based on personal preference. You can add spices, change the type of cheese, or even include toppings. This versatility means it’s never boring!

4. Healthier Than Ordering Out
By preparing these cheese sticks at home, you control the ingredients. You can opt for lower-fat versions of cheese and adjust amounts of butter. Homemade versions are not only delicious but healthier!

Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks 

To create these delightful cheese sticks, gather the following ingredients:

For the Dough:

  • 1 ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg yolk, lightly whisked
  • ½ cup + 2 tablespoons warm water (about 110°F), divided
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon honey

For Assembly:

  • 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and divided
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil, chopped
  • Marinara sauce for dipping
Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

How to Make These?

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Start by dissolving yeast in the warm water with honey in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows that your yeast is active. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Slowly blend in the yeast mixture and the whisked egg yolk. Knead until a smooth dough forms, which should take about 5 minutes. Cover the bowl and let it rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it onto a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. This creates the base for your cheese sticks.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over half of the dough rectangle. Be generous! Then fold the other half of the dough over the cheese, sealing the edges by pressing down with your fingers.

Step 4: Cut into Sticks

Cut the folded dough into equal strips. You can decide the thickness and length; typically, one inch thick works well. Ensure they are all uniform for even baking.

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the cheese sticks onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them with melted butter, and sprinkle with garlic salt, oregano, and Parmesan cheese. You might want to add a touch of fresh basil for garnish.

Step 6: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. You are looking for a golden brown color on top and for the cheese to be melting through.

Step 7: Serve with Marinara

Remove from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping, and indulge in the gooey, cheesy goodness!

Tips

  • Use Warm Water: The yeast needs warm water to activate. Ensure it’s around 110°F for best results.
  • Knead Well: Kneading helps develop gluten, contributing to a chewy texture.
  • Customize Cheese: Feel free to mix different shredded cheeses for a unique flavor – think mozzarella and cheddar.
  • Opt for Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs over dried can significantly enhance the flavor.
  • Monitor Baking Time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on the cheese sticks while baking to prevent burning.
Easy Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

Nutrition Information

pizza hut cheese sticks recipe nutrition facts

How to Store the Leftovers?

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! Allow cheese sticks to cool completely. Then, place them in an airtight container. They can remain at room temperature for about two hours. For longer storage, keep them refrigerated. They should last up to three days. When ready to enjoy again, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

Recommended Side Dishes for Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks 

1. Garden Salad
A fresh garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite dressing balances the richness of cheese sticks.

2. Marinara Dipping Sauce
While it’s already a suggested dip, a homemade marinara can feature additional garlic, herbs, and maybe even a little red pepper for a kick.

3. Garlic Knots
Complement your cheese sticks with garlic knots. These buttery, garlic-infused morsels provide robust flavor without clashing with the cheese sticks.

4. Vegetable Platter
Serve a colorful assortment of sliced veggies such as carrots, bell peppers, and celery with a zesty hummus or ranch dip for a crunchy contrast.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you find you’re missing an ingredient, here are some smart alternatives:

1. All-Purpose Flour
If you don’t have all-purpose flour, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

2. Mozzarella Cheese
In place of mozzarella, provolone or gouda will work well. Both melt beautifully and add their unique flavors.

3. Unsalted Butter
If butter is not available, use olive oil for brushing. This also adds a nice flavor and contributes to a crispy texture.

4. Honey
In place of honey, agave syrup or maple syrup works as a sweetener in the dough.

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

Mary Lee RD
When it comes to comfort food, few things rival the joy of cheesy goodness. This is especially true with Pizza Hut cheese sticks.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 31 minutes
Rest time 25 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 6 minutes
Course Side Dish
Cuisine American
Servings 8 Servings
Calories 338 kcal

Equipment

  • bowls

Ingredients
  

For the Dough:

  • 1 ¾ cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 egg yolk lightly whisked
  • ½ cup + 2 tablespoons warm water about 110°F, divided
  • ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 ½ tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter thinly sliced
  • 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
  • 1 tablespoon honey

For Assembly:

  • 8 ounces shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup unsalted butter melted and divided
  • 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic salt
  • ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon fresh basil chopped
  • Marinara sauce for dipping

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

  • Start by dissolving yeast in the warm water with honey in a bowl. Let it sit for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes frothy. This shows that your yeast is active. In another bowl, mix flour, salt, and sugar. Slowly blend in the yeast mixture and the whisked egg yolk. Knead until a smooth dough forms, which should take about 5 minutes. Cover the bowl and let it rise for approximately 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Dough

  • Once risen, punch down the dough and transfer it onto a floured surface. Roll out the dough into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. This creates the base for your cheese sticks.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

  • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over half of the dough rectangle. Be generous! Then fold the other half of the dough over the cheese, sealing the edges by pressing down with your fingers.

Step 4: Cut into Sticks

  • Cut the folded dough into equal strips. You can decide the thickness and length; typically, one inch thick works well. Ensure they are all uniform for even baking.

Step 5: Prepare to Bake

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Place the cheese sticks onto a parchment-lined baking sheet. Brush them with melted butter, and sprinkle with garlic salt, oregano, and Parmesan cheese. You might want to add a touch of fresh basil for garnish.

Step 6: Bake

  • Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. You are looking for a golden brown color on top and for the cheese to be melting through.

Step 7: Serve with Marinara

  • Remove from the oven and let them cool for a couple of minutes before serving. Pair them with marinara sauce for dipping, and indulge in the gooey, cheesy goodness!

Notes

  • Use Warm Water: The yeast needs warm water to activate. Ensure it’s around 110°F for best results.
  • Knead Well: Kneading helps develop gluten, contributing to a chewy texture.
  • Customize Cheese: Feel free to mix different shredded cheeses for a unique flavor – think mozzarella and cheddar.
  • Opt for Fresh Herbs: Using fresh herbs over dried can significantly enhance the flavor.
  • Monitor Baking Time: Each oven is different. Keep an eye on the cheese sticks while baking to prevent burning.

Nutrition

Calories: 338kcal
Keyword Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I freeze cheese sticks before baking?

Absolutely! Shape them as instructed, then freeze on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer them to a zip-lock bag. Bake them from frozen, adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time.

2. Can I make these cheese sticks without yeast?

While yeast contributes to the texture, you can try a baking powder dough for a quicker version. Just remember that the flavor will differ slightly.

3. What’s the best way to reheat cheese sticks?

The oven is the best method for reheating. It helps regain the crispiness. Avoid the microwave, as it can make them soggy.

4. Can I add toppings to the cheese sticks?

Yes, consider toppings like crumbled bacon, jalapeños, or sprinkle with chili flakes before baking for an added kick.

5. How do I know when my cheese sticks are done?

Look for a golden-brown top and watch for the cheese bubbling over. A warm, gooey center will also tell you they are ready!

Conclusion

Recreating Pizza Hut cheese sticks at home is a rewarding culinary experience. The combination of gooey cheese and crispy breadsticks brings comfort and joy. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is a perfect dish to share. Whether you enjoy them alone or paired with fun sides, these cheese sticks are sure to be a hit. 

So gather your ingredients, invite some friends, and get ready to enjoy a homemade version of this timeless favorite. Your kitchen might just become the new pizza joint in town!

You’ll also like these latest recipes!

+ posts

Hi! I'm Mary Lee. I love helping people eat yummy and healthy food. I live in Oregon. Cooking is my happy place. Let's make tasty dishes together!

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating