Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it's risen properly and has a similar texture to store-bought pizza dough. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the moisture content of your dough.

Why didn't my breadsticks get as golden as the ones from Pizza Hut?

The golden color comes from a combination of butter and proper oven temperature. Make sure your oven is fully preheated, use the full amount of butter called for, and consider brushing with a bit more butter in the last few minutes of baking. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.

Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, allow an extra 5 minutes of baking time since the dough will be cold. For best results though, bake them fresh shortly before serving.

My breadsticks came out doughy in the middle. What went wrong?

The most common causes are dough that's too thick in the center or an oven that's too hot on the outside but not hot enough inside. Try stretching the dough more evenly next time and consider baking at 400°F for a few minutes longer instead of 425°F.

Pizza Hut Breadsticks Recipe

These homemade Pizza Hut Breadsticks bring that famous pizzeria flavor right to your kitchen table! Soft and chewy on the inside, golden and buttery on the outside, with that perfect blend of garlic, herbs, and cheese that makes them absolutely irresistible. You’ll be shocked at how easy they are to make – it’s the perfect side for pasta night or your next homemade pizza!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Restaurant Quality at Home: Get that authentic Pizza Hut flavor without leaving your house or paying delivery fees.
Super Simple: Even kitchen novices can nail this recipe – if you can spread butter and sprinkle seasonings, you can make these breadsticks!
Crowd Pleaser: Watch these disappear in minutes at your next gathering – everyone from picky kids to discerning adults will reach for seconds.
Customizable: The basic recipe is fantastic, but you can easily adjust the seasonings or add cheese to make them your own.
Quick Preparation: With store-bought dough, these come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Pizza Dough: Store-bought dough saves tremendous time while still delivering great results. Let it come to room temperature for easier handling.
Butter: Unsalted butter gives you control over the saltiness. Half is used for the baking sheet, the other half gets brushed on top for that signature golden finish.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds that savory, umami kick that takes these breadsticks to the next level. Fresh grated works best, but the shelf-stable kind will do in a pinch.
Garlic Powder: The backbone of that classic Pizza Hut flavor – don’t skimp here!
Italian Seasoning: This herb blend provides complexity without requiring a cabinet full of individual herbs.
Onion Powder: Adds depth and subtle savory notes that complement the garlic perfectly.
Salt and Pepper: Kosher salt has a cleaner flavor than table salt. The pepper adds a hint of warmth.
Marinara Sauce: Optional but highly recommended for dipping – it transforms these breadsticks into a complete experience.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Variations

Cheesy Breadsticks

Sprinkle 1-2 cups of mozzarella cheese over the breadsticks before baking for that stretchy, cheesy pull that’s utterly satisfying.

Cinnamon Sugar Breadsticks

Skip the savory seasonings and instead brush with butter and sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar for a sweet treat.

Extra Garlicky

Double the garlic powder or add 2-3 cloves of fresh minced garlic to the butter mixture for intense garlic lovers.

Spicy Breadsticks

Add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne to the seasoning mix for a bit of heat.

How to Make Pizza Hut Breadsticks

Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 425°F. Pour 4 tablespoons of melted butter into a 9×13 baking sheet, spreading it evenly to coat the entire surface.

Step 2: Prep the Dough

Stretch and press your room-temperature pizza dough into the buttered baking sheet, creating a rectangular shape that reaches the edges. The butter underneath will make this easier and prevent sticking.

Step 3: Create Breadsticks

Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, score the dough into 16 equal strips (cut 8 vertical lines, then one horizontal line through the middle). Don’t cut all the way through – just create guidelines.

Step 4: Season to Perfection

In a small bowl, mix together the Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush the remaining 4 tablespoons of melted butter over the dough, then evenly sprinkle the seasoning mixture across the entire surface.

Step 5: Bake

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 16-20 minutes until the breadsticks are golden brown on top and cooked through.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked, let cool for 2-3 minutes, then cut along your scored lines to separate the breadsticks. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Room Temperature Dough: Cold dough fights back when you try to stretch it. Let it sit on the counter for 30-60 minutes before starting.
Even Thickness: Try to stretch the dough to a uniform thickness for consistent baking.
Don’t Rush the Browning: That golden top isn’t just for looks – it’s where the flavor develops. If your breadsticks are done but not golden, broil for 1-2 minutes (watching carefully to prevent burning).
Butter is Key: If the breadsticks seem dry after baking, brush with a little extra melted butter while still hot.
Seasoning Balance: Taste your seasoning mix before sprinkling. Everyone’s preferences differ – adjust the blend to suit your taste.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

These breadsticks are the ideal companion for pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, lasagna, or fettuccine alfredo. They’re also wonderful alongside a fresh green salad for a light lunch.

Dipping Options

While marinara is classic, try offering a variety of dips: garlic butter, ranch dressing, spicy arrabbiata sauce, or even a spinach-artichoke dip for something special.

Make it a Meal

For a casual family night, serve these breadsticks with a homemade pizza and create your own Pizza Hut experience at home. Add a simple Caesar salad and you’ve got a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. They’ll lose some of their magic but still taste great.

Freezing

Baked breadsticks freeze surprisingly well. Cool completely, then place in a freezer bag with parchment between layers to prevent sticking. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

The best way to bring back their glory is to wrap them loosely in foil and heat in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. A quick 10-second zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but the texture won’t be as good.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully in this recipe. Just make sure it’s risen properly and has a similar texture to store-bought pizza dough. You might need to adjust the baking time slightly depending on the moisture content of your dough.
Why didn’t my breadsticks get as golden as the ones from Pizza Hut?

The golden color comes from a combination of butter and proper oven temperature. Make sure your oven is fully preheated, use the full amount of butter called for, and consider brushing with a bit more butter in the last few minutes of baking. If needed, broil for 1-2 minutes at the end.
Can I make these ahead for a party?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to serve, allow an extra 5 minutes of baking time since the dough will be cold. For best results though, bake them fresh shortly before serving.
My breadsticks came out doughy in the middle. What went wrong?

The most common causes are dough that’s too thick in the center or an oven that’s too hot on the outside but not hot enough inside. Try stretching the dough more evenly next time and consider baking at 400°F for a few minutes longer instead of 425°F.

Final Thoughts

These homemade Pizza Hut Breadsticks bring that pizzeria magic into your kitchen with minimal effort. There’s something so satisfying about pulling apart a warm, buttery breadstick that you’ve made yourself! They’re perfect for pasta nights, game days, or anytime you need a crowd-pleasing side that’ll have everyone reaching for more. Give them a try – I bet they’ll become a regular in your cooking rotation!