These cheese sticks start with a pillowy pan-style dough, topped with a blanket of shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Italian herbs. After baking, they get brushed with melted garlic butter that soaks into the crust for that signature flavor. Serve them with warm marinara or ranch, and don’t be surprised if they vanish in minutes.
I made these once on a whim for a movie night, and they’ve been requested on repeat ever since. They’re that perfect combo of chewy, cheesy, and buttery—just like you remember.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Soft, pan-style crust with crispy golden edges
- Loaded with cheese – gooey mozzarella in every bite
- Garlic butter finish – the flavor that makes them addicting
- Perfect for dipping – serve with marinara, ranch, or garlic sauce
- Easy dough option – homemade or store-bought works
Prep Time and Servings
- Total Time: 1 hour (30 mins active + dough rest)
- Servings: Makes 8–10 cheese sticks
- Calories per stick: ~220
- Protein: 8g | Carbs: 22g | Fat: 10g
Ingredients
Dough (Homemade Option):
- 2¼ teaspoons instant yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2½ cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
Shortcut: Use 1 pound of store-bought pizza dough if you’re short on time!
Topping:
- 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder (optional)
Garlic Butter:
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 teaspoon chopped parsley
For Dipping:
- Warm marinara sauce or ranch dressing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Make the Dough (Skip if Using Store-Bought)
- In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
- Add olive oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
- Knead on a floured surface for 5–7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add more flour if needed.
- Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 30–45 minutes until doubled in size.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
- Preheat oven to 425°F (218°C).
- Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line with parchment paper.
- Press dough into the pan evenly, stretching to the edges.
Tip: Let the dough rest for 5–10 minutes if it resists stretching.
Step 3: Add the Toppings
- Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over the dough, all the way to the edges for those crispy cheese bits.
- Add Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Lightly press the cheese into the dough with your hands.
Step 4: Bake
- Bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for the last 1–2 minutes if you want the cheese extra golden.
Step 5: Brush with Garlic Butter
- While the sticks are hot, brush the entire surface with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and salt.
- Sprinkle with parsley if desired.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
- Let cool for 2–3 minutes, then slice into sticks with a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
- Serve warm with marinara or ranch for dipping.
How to Serve
- As an appetizer: With warm marinara and extra Parmesan.
- As a side: Alongside spaghetti, lasagna, or soup.
- As a snack: For movie night, game day, or after-school treats.
- For parties: Make a double batch and serve on a platter with dipping sauces.
Additional Tips
- Use whole milk mozzarella for the best gooey melt.
- Stretch, don’t roll the dough—it keeps it airy and soft.
- Don’t skimp on cheese—edge-to-edge coverage gives those crispy cheese bites.
- Let the dough rest after stretching if it keeps shrinking.
- Double the garlic butter if you want it extra indulgent (trust me).
Recipe Variations
- Cheesy Jalapeño Sticks: Add thinly sliced jalapeños before baking.
- Stuffed Crust Style: Fold edges over string cheese before baking.
- Spicy Garlic Butter: Mix in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the butter.
- Low-carb version: Use a low-carb pizza dough base like fathead dough.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in oven at 350°F for 8–10 minutes or in an air fryer for 3–5 minutes.
- Freezer: Freeze after baking. Reheat from frozen in oven until hot and crisp.
Special Equipment
- 9×13 baking dish or sheet pan
- Pastry brush for garlic butter
- Pizza cutter for perfect slicing
FAQ
Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
Yes, but freshly shredded mozzarella melts better and tastes creamier.
Is this the same as breadsticks?
Nope—these are cheesier, thicker, and closer to cheesy pan pizza in texture.
Can I add toppings?
Absolutely—pepperoni slices, jalapeños, or chopped olives are all fair game!
Can I make this ahead?
Yes—par-bake the base for 10 minutes, cool, then top and bake just before serving.
Conclusion
Pizza Hut–Style Cheese Sticks are buttery, cheesy, and downright irresistible. Whether you’re recreating a childhood favorite or just want a cheesy snack that’ll wow everyone at the table, this recipe delivers every single time. Gooey cheese, garlic butter, crispy edges… what more do you need?
Make a batch, grab your favorite dipping sauce, and dig in. If you try them, I’d love to see your cheesy creations—tag me in your snack pics!
