If you have ever wondered how to recreate that iconic, melty, and irresistible snack at home, these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks will blow your mind. This beloved classic brings together soft, buttery dough and a generous layer of cheesy goodness topped with herbs that deliver the perfect bite every time. Whether you’re craving a tasty appetizer, a midnight snack, or the ideal party finger food, these cheese sticks capture the essence of that famous Pizza Hut flavor right in your own kitchen.

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients for these Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks is simpler than you might think. Each component plays a big role, from the soft dough to the luscious cheese topping, ensuring the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma.

Granulated sugar: Just the right amount to activate the yeast and add a touch of sweetness.
All-purpose flour: The foundation of the dough, providing that soft yet sturdy texture.
Active dry yeast: The magic that makes your dough rise and get that wonderfully fluffy quality.
Kosher salt: Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness.
Warm water (110°F): Essential for activating the yeast and combining the dough smoothly.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness to the dough and creates that golden, buttery crust.
Egg yolk: Helps bind ingredients and gives the dough a tender crumb.
Shredded mozzarella cheese: The main cheesy star providing meltiness and gooeyness.
Grated parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, sharp contrast to the mozzarella.
Dried oregano and garlic salt: The perfect herb and seasoning combo that brings that classic Pizza Hut aroma and flavor.
Marinara sauce: Ideal for dipping those cheese sticks and rounding out the experience.

How to Make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by combining the active dry yeast with half of your warm water at 110°F in a small bowl. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until you see it become foamy—this confirms your yeast is alive and ready to give your dough the perfect rise.

Step 2: Mix the Dough Base

In a large mixing bowl, combine the sliced unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and kosher salt. Pour the remaining warm water into this mixture and allow it to rest for a moment while the yeast activates, adding richness and a bit of sweetness to your dough’s flavor profile.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once your yeast mixture is foamy, whisk your butter mixture lightly to incorporate, then add in the egg yolk and yeast mix. Stir in the all-purpose flour little by little until the dough just comes together. Avoid overmixing; you want soft, tender dough, not tough.

Step 4: Prepare for Rising

Brush a 9×13-inch baking dish generously with melted butter, which prevents sticking and adds flavor. Spread your dough evenly into the dish, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rest for 15 minutes. This resting period allows the dough to relax and get ready for baking.

Step 5: Add the Cheesy Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the plastic wrap from your dough and brush the surface with the remaining melted butter. Then generously sprinkle your shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic salt, and dried oregano to bring that iconic aroma and gooey texture to the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cheese sticks for 28 to 31 minutes until the edges turn a deep golden brown and the cheese bubbles enticingly. This baking time ensures a crispy crust paired beautifully with stretchy, melted cheese.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Allow your cheese sticks to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing them into eight even pieces. This short rest helps the cheese settle slightly so they cut beautifully without losing gooeyness.

How to Serve Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dusting of extra parmesan can elevate your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks, adding a chewable freshness and sharpness to each bite. A small drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil on top can also boost flavor and make your presentation irresistible.

Side Dishes

For the ultimate indulgence, serve these cheese sticks alongside a robust marinara sauce for dipping. A crisp garden salad or some zesty buffalo wings can complement the richness, balancing the meal perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress your guests? Arrange the cheese sticks like a bouquet on a platter with small bowls of marinara, ranch dressing, and a spicy chipotle dip. You can also serve them with skewers inserted for easy grabbing at parties or game nights.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you end up with leftovers, store your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them soft and flavorful without drying out.

Freezing

Cheese sticks freeze beautifully. Simply cut them into portions, wrap each piece tightly with plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To enjoy them warm and melty again, reheat your cheese sticks in a preheated 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until heated through. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust crispy and prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella and parmesan?

Absolutely! While mozzarella and parmesan create that classic blend, feel free to experiment with provolone, cheddar, or even a spicy pepper jack for a twist on the traditional Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks.

Is it necessary to use active dry yeast?

Yes, active dry yeast is key to getting the dough to rise properly and develop that fluffy texture. Instant yeast can work with adjusted quantities but active dry yeast gives the best results for this recipe.

Can I make the dough in advance?

You can prepare the dough ahead of time and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature before baking to achieve the perfect rise and texture.

What if I don’t have garlic salt?

No problem at all! You can substitute regular salt combined with a pinch of garlic powder or even use fresh minced garlic lightly sautéed in butter before brushing on the dough.

How do I get that soft yet crispy texture?

The secret is in the butter—both in the dough and brushed on top before baking. Also, baking at a moderate 350°F allows the cheese to melt perfectly while the edges crisp up beautifully without drying out.

Final Thoughts

These Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are a game changer, bringing that nostalgic flavor straight to your kitchen with homemade charm. Whether you’re serving them up for family, friends, or just as a well-deserved treat, they are sure to become a fast favorite. Grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this cheesy, buttery delight—you won’t regret it!

Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 16 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 8 breadsticks 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

These Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are a delicious, cheesy appetizer that perfectly replicates the popular restaurant favorite. Soft, buttery bread topped with a blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese, seasoned with garlic and oregano, then baked to golden perfection. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

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 active.
Mix Butter, Sugar, and Salt: In a large bowl, place the thinly sliced butter, sugar, and kosher salt together to prepare the base for the dough.
Add Remaining Water: Pour the remaining warm water into the butter mixture. Allow this to sit while the yeast continues to activate, blending flavors and softening the butter.
Combine Mixtures: After 5 minutes, whisk the butter and water mixture until it is somewhat combined smoothly.
Add Egg Yolk and Yeast: Add the lightly beaten egg yolk and the foamy yeast mixture into the bowl with the butter mixture, then stir in the flour until just incorporated into a dough.
Prepare Baking Dish: Brush a 9×13 inch baking dish with 2 tablespoons of melted butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
Shape Dough: Spread the dough evenly in the prepared baking dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and let it rest for 15 minutes to allow the dough to relax and rise slightly.
Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) while the dough is resting.
Top Dough: Remove the plastic wrap from the dough. Brush the top with the remaining melted butter. Generously sprinkle the shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, garlic salt, and dried oregano evenly over the surface.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 28-31 minutes, or until the edges are a deep golden brown and the cheese is bubbling and melted.
Cool and Cut: Remove from the oven and allow the breadsticks to cool in the dish for 10 minutes. Then, cut into 8 even pieces for serving.
Serve: Serve warm with marinara sauce on the side for dipping to enjoy the classic, cheesy breadstick experience.

Notes

Be sure the water is at the correct temperature (110°F) to activate the yeast properly without killing it.
Use fresh yeast for best results; expired yeast may prevent dough from rising properly.
If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add a light sprinkle of garlic powder or minced garlic before baking.
For a crispier crust, bake a few minutes longer but watch carefully to avoid burning the cheese.
These cheese sticks are best enjoyed fresh but can be reheated in the oven or microwave for leftovers.
Substitute with mozzarella blends if desired, such as part provolone for extra meltiness.

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