Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

This homemade version of Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks delivers that irresistible combination of buttery, cheesy goodness that we all crave. Recreating this classic restaurant favorite at home is surprisingly simple and takes just over an hour from start to finish. The result? Golden, cheesy breadsticks with crispy edges and a soft, pillowy center that’ll have everyone reaching for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Active Dry Yeast: The magical ingredient that gives our dough its rise. Make sure it foams when activated—that means it’s alive and ready to work!
• Butter: Used in both the dough and for brushing, creating that distinctive rich flavor and golden crust. The secret to that Pizza Hut buttery taste.
• Sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory elements.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors and strengthens the dough structure.
• Warm Water: The temperature is crucial—too hot will kill the yeast, too cool won’t activate it. Aim for 110°F, which feels warm but not hot to the touch.
• Egg Yolk: Adds richness and helps create that tender texture we’re looking for.
• All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of our dough. No need for fancy flours here—regular all-purpose works perfectly.
• Mozzarella Cheese: The star of the show! Use a good quality shredded mozzarella for that perfect cheese pull.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty kick that takes these cheese sticks to the next level.
• Garlic Salt: Provides that classic flavor without having to chop fresh garlic.
• Dried Oregano: Gives that distinctive Italian flavor that makes these taste authentic.
• Marinara Sauce: Essential for dipping! You can use store-bought or homemade.

Variations

Want to mix things up? Try these delicious twists on the classic:

• Cheese Blend: Swap out some of the mozzarella for cheddar, provolone, or Monterey Jack for different flavor profiles.
• Flavor Boost: Add Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, or fresh minced garlic to the butter before brushing on the dough.
• Stuffed Crust: Roll cheese sticks inside the edges of the dough before baking for an extra surprise.
• Loaded Cheese Sticks: Sprinkle cooked and crumbled bacon, sliced olives, or diced bell peppers on top before baking.

How to Make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Yeast

In a small bowl, add the yeast. Pour half of the warm water (about ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon) over the yeast, stir gently, and let it sit for 5 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the thinly sliced butter, sugar, and salt. Pour the remaining warm water over this mixture and let it sit while the yeast activates. After 5 minutes, whisk until combined (don’t worry if the butter doesn’t fully melt).

Step 3: Combine Everything

Add the egg yolk and foamy yeast mixture to the wet ingredients and whisk until well combined. Add the flour and stir until just combined to form a soft dough.

Step 4: Prepare the Pan

Take 2 tablespoons of melted butter from your assembly ingredients and brush it all over a 9×13 baking dish, ensuring the entire surface is coated.

Step 5: Rest the Dough

Spread the dough evenly into the bottom of the buttered baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes. During this time, preheat your oven to 350°F.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Remove the plastic wrap and brush the remaining melted butter all over the dough surface. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly across the top, followed by the parmesan cheese, garlic salt, and dried oregano.

Step 7: Bake

Bake for 28-31 minutes until the edges are dark golden brown all around the baking dish and the cheese on top is bubbly and browned.

Step 8: Serve

Let the cheese sticks cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Remove from the pan and cut into 8 even slices. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

How to Serve

These cheese sticks are versatile enough to be served in multiple ways:

Dipping Sauces:

While marinara is classic, try offering ranch dressing, garlic butter, pesto, or buffalo sauce for variety.

Perfect Pairings:

Serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal, or as an appetizer before pasta night.

Party Presentation:

Cut into smaller pieces and arrange on a platter with multiple dipping sauces for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at your next gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow cheese sticks to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

These freeze beautifully! Allow them to cool completely, then wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through and the cheese is melty again. You can also use a microwave for 20-30 seconds, but the texture won’t be as crisp.

FAQs

Can I use refrigerated pizza dough instead of making my own?
Yes, you can use refrigerated pizza dough as a time-saver, but be aware that the flavor and texture will be different from the original recipe. The homemade dough with butter incorporated throughout is what gives these cheese sticks their distinctive Pizza Hut flavor.

Why is my dough not rising much during the rest period?
This particular dough doesn’t rise dramatically during the 15-minute rest—it’s more about relaxing the gluten. Most of the rise happens during baking. If your yeast was foamy when activated, you’re on the right track. The butter-enriched dough naturally creates a more dense, flavorful base.

Can I make these ahead of time for a party?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough and assemble everything up to the baking step, then refrigerate covered for up to 24 hours. Allow the dish to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. Alternatively, bake them ahead of time and reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes just before serving.

My cheese is getting too brown but the edges aren’t done yet. What should I do?
If your cheese is browning too quickly, loosely cover the top with aluminum foil for the remainder of the baking time. This will protect the cheese while allowing the dough to continue cooking to golden perfection.

These homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks bring that classic restaurant experience right to your table, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. With their buttery base, perfect cheese blend, and customizable toppings, they’re guaranteed to become a regular request in your household. Whether you’re hosting a game night, looking for a crowd-pleasing appetizer, or just craving comfort food, give this recipe a try—I promise it won’t disappoint!

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