This Copycat Pizza Hut’s Cheesy Bread recipe delivers that signature buttery, garlicky, cheesy goodness you remember from takeout—right from your own oven. With a soft, fluffy dough, golden crust, and a blanket of melted mozzarella, it’s a perfect side dish, appetizer, or snack that’s dangerously addictive and surprisingly easy to make.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Inspired by the famous Pizza Hut cheesy breadsticks that became a nostalgic favorite in the 1990s and 2000s, this recipe captures the essence of classic American fast-food comfort. Cheesy breadsticks rose to popularity as a must-have side to pizzas, offering a shareable, savory indulgence that brought people together at game nights, parties, and casual dinners. This homemade version lets you enjoy that same flavor with fewer preservatives and full control over the ingredients.
Ingredients and Quantities
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 1½ cups warm water (110–115°F)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup non-fat dry milk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (divided)
- ½ cup melted butter (divided)
- 1 (8 oz) package mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional Additions
- Italian seasoning sprinkled over the top before baking
- Crushed red pepper flakes for a kick
- Fresh herbs like chopped parsley or basil after baking
- Substitute part of the mozzarella with cheddar or provolone for a cheese blend
- Serve with homemade marinara or ranch for dipping
Tips for Success
- Use warm, not hot, water when activating yeast to avoid killing it.
- Let the dough rest and rise in a warm area to ensure a fluffy texture.
- Generously butter both the pan and the dough top to achieve that Pizza Hut-style crispiness and flavor.
- Don’t overbake. Remove the bread once it’s golden brown to keep it soft inside.
- Shred your own cheese for better melting and flavor—pre-shredded often contains anti-caking agents.
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). - Activate the Yeast
In a large bowl, dissolve 1 tablespoon yeast in 1½ cups warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes until bubbly and activated. - Mix Initial Dough
Stir in 2 tablespoons sugar, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ cup non-fat dry milk. Gradually add enough of the 3 cups flour to create a soupy batter. - Form and Knead the Dough
Add the remaining flour gradually to form a moderately stiff dough. Knead by hand or with a dough hook until smooth and elastic. - Shape the Dough
Roll the dough into the size and shape of your baking pan. - Prepare the Pan
Spread half of the melted butter on the bottom of the pan. Place the shaped dough into the pan. Let rise in a warm, draft-free place for 15 minutes. - Top and Bake
Spread the remaining butter over the top of the dough. Add shredded mozzarella, garlic powder, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to taste. - Bake
Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly. - Serve
Let cool slightly, slice into breadsticks, and serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Description
Golden on the outside and soft on the inside, this cheesy bread is packed with flavor. The mozzarella melts into gooey perfection, while garlic powder and parmesan add savory richness. It’s a crave-worthy treat that satisfies like your favorite restaurant side, perfect for pulling apart and dipping into warm marinara sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 of 8 servings)
- Calories: ~320 kcal
- Protein: ~10g
- Fat: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Sugar: ~3g
- Fiber: ~1g
- Sodium: ~400mg
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on exact brands and serving sizes.
Conclusion
This Copycat Pizza Hut Cheesy Bread brings together everything we love about comfort food—cheese, bread, butter, and flavor. It’s easy to make, affordable, and totally customizable. Whether you serve it as a side, a game-day snack, or a cheesy appetizer, it’s bound to be a crowd favorite.
Recommendation
Pair it with pasta, pizza, or soup for the ultimate comfort meal. Want to make it ahead? Prepare and freeze the dough, then bake fresh when ready. It also reheats beautifully in the oven or air fryer for next-day snacking.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
Indulgence doesn’t have to come at the cost of mindfulness. Use part-skim mozzarella, whole wheat flour, or reduce butter if desired. Add fresh veggies like spinach or tomatoes on top for an extra nutrient boost. With this recipe, you can satisfy your cravings while still making choices that support your well-being.
Would you like this in a downloadable format or tailored for a printed recipe book?