Bread Sticks Recipe

Activate yeast

In a medium bowl, combine warm water (about 105–115°F / 40–46°C), sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit 5–10 minutes until foamy and fragrant.

Mix dough

In a large bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the foamy yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon or dough hook until a shaggy dough forms.

Knead

Turn dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead about 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic (or knead with a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook on medium speed for 4–5 minutes). Add a little flour only if dough is excessively sticky.

First rise

Lightly oil a clean bowl with the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, place the dough inside, turning to coat. Cover with plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise in a warm draft-free spot until doubled, about 60–75 minutes.

Preheat oven & prepare pan

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Divide and shape

Punch down the risen dough to release air and turn out onto a lightly floured surface. Divide into 12 equal pieces (about 1.5–2 oz each). Roll each piece into a 6–8 inch long stick, tapered slightly at the ends, and place spaced about 1 inch apart on the prepared baking sheet.

Second rise

Cover the shaped sticks loosely with lightly greased plastic wrap or a clean towel and let rest 15–20 minutes until puffy (they will not double but should feel airy).

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes, rotating the pan halfway through, until the tops are golden brown and the bottoms sound hollow when tapped.

Prepare butter garlic topping

While the bread sticks bake, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, and half the chopped parsley in a small bowl.

Brush and top

As soon as the bread sticks come out of the oven, brush each generously with the garlic butter. Sprinkle evenly with dried Italian seasoning, grated Parmesan, remaining parsley, and a light pinch of coarse sea salt.

Rest

Let the bread sticks rest on the baking sheet for 3–4 minutes to set, then transfer to a wire rack or serving platter.

Warm marinara

Pour marinara sauce into a small saucepan and warm over low heat until simmering lightly, about 5–7 minutes. Stir in red pepper flakes and chopped basil (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Serve the warm marinara alongside the freshly baked bread sticks for dipping.