Italian Dipping Sticks Recipe
This recipe offers a quick and easy way to prepare flavorful Italian dipping sticks using refrigerated breadsticks. Coated with Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, then baked to a golden crisp, these sticks are perfect for dipping in warm pizza sauce. An ideal snack or appetizer, ready in just 25 minutes.
Equipment
- 1 Baking Sheet
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Measuring spoons/cups
- 1 Small Saucepan (for warming pizza sauce)
- 1 Pastry Brush (optional, for olive oil)
Ingredients
Main
- 1 tube 11 oz refrigerated breadsticks
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp italian seasoning
- 1 cup pizza sauce
- 1/4 cup shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to the temperature specified on the refrigerated breadsticks package, typically around 375-400°F (190-200°C).
- Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup and to prevent sticking.
- Unroll the tube of refrigerated breadsticks and carefully separate each stick, laying them out in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, ensuring they are not touching.
- In a small mixing bowl, combine the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, stirring well to create an even blend.
- Evenly sprinkle the Parmesan and Italian seasoning mixture over the breadsticks. For better adherence and crispness, you may lightly brush the sticks with olive oil beforehand (optional).
- Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crisp to your liking. Cooking time may vary, so keep a watchful eye.
- While the breadsticks are baking, gently warm the pizza sauce in a small saucepan over low heat or in a microwave-safe bowl until just hot enough for dipping.
- Once baked, carefully remove the dipping sticks from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter.
- Serve the hot Italian dipping sticks immediately with the warmed pizza sauce on the side for dipping.
- Offer shredded part-skim mozzarella cheese as an optional sprinkle for guests to add to their sauce or sticks if desired.
Notes
For optimal crispness and a golden-brown finish, ensure your oven is fully preheated. When separating the breadsticks, arrange them with ample space on the baking sheet to prevent steaming and encourage browning on all sides. For an enhanced flavor and improved seasoning adherence, consider lightly brushing the breadsticks with melted butter or olive oil before sprinkling the cheese and seasoning mixture. A touch of garlic powder can be a welcome addition to the Parmesan blend for a bolder taste. Always serve the pizza sauce warm for the best dipping experience, perhaps with a garnish of fresh basil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.