If you are looking for the ultimate comfort food that combines ooey-gooey mac and cheese with the crispy, golden goodness of breadsticks, you have to try this Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe. Imagine the warm, cheesy macaroni sauce enveloped in soft, buttery dough, baked to perfection and sprinkled with Parmesan, creating a snack that is simply irresistible. Whether you are sharing with family or craving something indulgent on your own, these breadsticks bring the best of two beloved classics onto one plate, making every bite a celebration of cheesy, doughy delight.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe. Each element plays an important role, from the creamy sharp cheddar that gives the filling its rich flavor to the pizza dough that creates a light, fluffy breadstick base. Simple pantry staples here work together to make magic happen.
- Elbow macaroni: The perfect pasta shape to hold onto that luscious cheese sauce.
- Sharp cheddar cheese: Offers vibrant color and a bold, tangy cheddar flavor essential for authentic mac and cheese.
- Butter: Adds richness to the cheese sauce and helps form the roux for thickness.
- All-purpose flour: Works with butter to thicken the sauce for creamy, smooth mac and cheese.
- Milk: Creates the base of the sauce, providing creaminess without heaviness.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly without overpowering.
- Black pepper: Adds a gentle spiciness to keep the cheese sauce balanced.
- Garlic powder: A subtle punch of savory depth that lifts the whole dish.
- Refrigerated pizza dough: Makes assembling breadsticks easy and ensures a soft but crisp crust.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a deliciously golden, cheesy crust.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh, vibrant touch to brighten each bite.
- Marinara or ranch for dipping: Perfect complementary sauces that elevate the snacking experience.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Macaroni
Start by boiling the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until just tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta well and set it aside. This perfectly cooked macaroni is the heart of the filling, ensuring each breadstick bursts with cheesy goodness without any gummy texture.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheese Sauce
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about one minute to create a smooth roux. Slowly pour in the milk bit by bit, whisking constantly until the sauce thickens slightly, around 2 to 3 minutes. Season it with salt, pepper, and garlic powder before stirring in the shredded cheddar cheese until your sauce becomes silky smooth and irresistibly cheesy.
Step 3: Combine Macaroni and Cheese
Now, fold your cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce, making sure every noodle is coated in that creamy cheddar blanket. Remove from heat and let the mixture cool just enough to handle without being too runny for your dough.
Step 4: Prepare the Dough
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto the baking sheet and gently stretch it into a neat rectangle. This acts as the foundation for the savory filling.
Step 5: Assemble the Breadsticks
Spread the mac and cheese filling evenly over one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges to make sealing easy. Fold the other half of the dough over the mac and cheese and press the edges firmly to seal everything inside, locking in that cheesy goodness.
Step 6: Cut and Bake
Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the folded dough into strips about one inch wide to create your breadsticks. Sprinkle each strip with grated Parmesan to give them a beautifully caramelized, cheesy finish once baked. Place them in the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and crispy on the outside.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the breadsticks from the oven and let them cool slightly before separating. This helps keep the cheese inside from oozing out too soon. Garnish with chopped parsley if you like, and your Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe is ready to delight!
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley or a sprinkling of extra Parmesan on top of these breadsticks creates a lovely color contrast and a subtle fresh note that balances the rich cheese. You can also try a light dusting of smoked paprika or red chili flakes if you want a little kick.
Side Dishes
These breadsticks pair beautifully with marinara sauce for dipping, lending a bright tomato acidity that cuts through the richness. Ranch dressing is another crowd-pleaser, offering a creamy cool complement. Serve alongside a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a well-rounded meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For parties, arrange the Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe in a circular basket or on a wooden board with small cups of dips scattered around for easy sharing. You can also serve them alongside mini sliders or wings for an epic game day spread that will have everyone coming back for more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. To keep the breadsticks from becoming soggy, place a piece of parchment paper between layers if stacking.
Freezing
These breadsticks freeze wonderfully. After cutting but before baking, place the strips on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and bake them straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
Reheating
When reheating, pop your Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe into a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 5 to 8 minutes. This will refresh the crispy crust and warm the cheesy interior perfectly. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep the texture ideal.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar delivers classic flavor, feel free to experiment with cheeses like mozzarella for extra stretchiness or gouda for a smoky twist. Mixing cheeses can create unique variations of the recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend and using gluten-free pizza dough, you can enjoy a gluten-free version of this Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Can I prepare the mac and cheese filling in advance?
Definitely! Making the cheese sauce and cooked macaroni ahead of time saves you cooking day prep. Just store the filling in the refrigerator and assemble the breadsticks when ready to bake.
What dipping sauces go best with these breadsticks?
Classic marinara and ranch are favorites, but honey mustard, spicy sriracha mayo, or even a creamy garlic dip work wonderfully to enhance the flavor experience.
How can I add some extra flavor to this recipe?
Try mixing in crumbled bacon, diced jalapeños, or finely chopped green onions into your mac and cheese filling before assembling. These add-ins bring exciting layers of flavor and texture that elevate the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines comfort food nostalgia with a fun, handheld twist. Whether for a casual snack, kids’ lunchbox treat, or party appetizer, these breadsticks deliver rich, cheesy satisfaction in every bite. Don’t hesitate to make this recipe your own and share it with the people you love—it’s sure to become a treasured favorite!
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Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and comforting Mac and Cheese Breadsticks combine creamy homemade mac and cheese with soft, golden-baked pizza dough. Perfect as an appetizer or snack, these cheesy breadsticks are easy to make and great for sharing, served warm with your favorite marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
Ingredients
Macaroni and Cheese
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
Dough and Topping
- 1 package refrigerated pizza dough
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- Marinara or ranch for dipping
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prepare for baking the breadsticks.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly add the milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Season and Add Cheese: Stir in salt, black pepper, and garlic powder into the sauce. Add the shredded sharp cheddar cheese and stir until fully melted and smooth.
- Combine Macaroni with Cheese Sauce: Mix the cooked macaroni into the cheese sauce until well coated. Remove the mixture from heat.
- Prepare Dough: Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Gently stretch it into a rectangular shape suitable for folding.
- Assemble Breadsticks: Spread the mac and cheese mixture evenly over one half of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges. Fold the other half of the dough over to cover the filling and press the edges firmly to seal.
- Cut and Top: Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to cut the folded dough into strips for breadsticks. Sprinkle the top with grated Parmesan cheese evenly.
- Bake: Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Let the breadsticks cool slightly before separating them. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm with marinara or ranch dipping sauce.
Notes
- For a quicker version, use pre-made mac and cheese instead of making the cheese sauce from scratch.
- Add crumbled cooked bacon or chopped jalapeños into the mac and cheese mixture before assembling for extra flavor and spice.
- Ensure the dough is well sealed around the edges to prevent the cheesy filling from leaking during baking.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer, Snack
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
