Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks

Total Time: 25 minutes
Active Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Yield: 8 breadsticks

Crispy, golden, and oozing with cheese, these Air Fryer Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks are the ultimate quick snack or appetizer. Using an air fryer delivers a perfect crunch without deep frying, while a rich garlic-herb butter and a blend of melted cheeses create an irresistible flavor. Ready in under 30 minutes, they’re perfect for game day, a family movie night, or a last-minute treat.

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Ingredients

For the Breadsticks:

• 1 (13.8 oz) tube refrigerated pizza dough

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ½ cup shredded mild cheddar cheese

• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

For the Garlic-Herb Butter:

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped (or 2 tsp dried)

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving (Optional):

• ½ cup marinara sauce, warmed

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Equipment

• Air Fryer

• Parchment paper or air fryer liner

• Rolling pin

• Pastry brush

• Sharp knife or pizza cutter

• Small bowl

• Basting brush

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Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Dough & Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly dust a clean surface with flour. Unroll the pizza dough and, using a rolling pin, gently roll it into a rectangle roughly 10×8 inches. This ensures an even thickness for consistent cooking.

Line the air fryer basket with a piece of parchment paper cut to fit (with holes for air circulation) or use an air fryer liner. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup easy.

Step 2: Create the Garlic-Herb Butter

In a small bowl, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.

Step 3: Assemble the Breadsticks

Carefully transfer the rolled-out dough to the prepared air fryer basket. Using a pastry brush, generously coat the entire surface of the dough with about two-thirds of the garlic-herb butter, reserving the rest for later.

In a separate bowl, mix the mozzarella, cheddar, and Italian seasoning. Sprinkle the cheese blend evenly over the buttered dough.

Step 4: Cook

Place the basket in the preheated air fryer. Cook at 350°F (175°C) for 8-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the dough edges begin to turn golden.

Step 5: Slice and Finish

Carefully remove the basket—the cheese will be very hot. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the cheesy dough into 8 even breadsticks. Gently separate them slightly in the basket to allow air to circulate around each one.

Brush the tops of the breadsticks with the remaining garlic-herb butter and sprinkle with the grated Parmesan cheese.

Step 6: Final Crisp

Return the basket to the air fryer. Cook for an additional 4-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until the breadsticks are deeply golden, crisp on the edges, and the cheese is perfectly melted.

Step 7: Serve

Remove the breadsticks from the air fryer and let them cool for 2-3 minutes—this allows the cheese to set slightly for easier handling. Serve immediately with warm marinara sauce for dipping.

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Chef’s Notes & Tips

• Dough Variations: For a homemade touch, use 1 pound of your favorite pizza dough. Let it come to room temperature before rolling.

• Cheese Flexibility: A pre-shredded Italian cheese blend works wonderfully here for convenience. For a gourmet twist, add a few shreds of smoked gouda or pepper jack.

• Prevent Burning: Air fryer models vary. Check the breadsticks a few minutes early during the final crisp phase. If cheese is browning too fast, you can loosely tent with foil.

• Make it a Meal: Pair these breadsticks with a fresh garden salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a simple, satisfying lunch.

• Storage: These are best enjoyed fresh. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 370°F for 3-4 minutes to restore crispness.

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Nutrition Information

Serving Size: 2 breadsticks (without marinara sauce)