Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

If you have ever craved that irresistible, cheesy, golden-brown snack from Pizza Hut, you are in for a treat! This best Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks recipe brings that perfect balance of crispy, buttery crust with gooey, stringy cheese right to your kitchen. Learn how to make cheesy, crispy Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks at home with this easy, mouthwatering recipe your family will love! Whether it’s a movie night or a quick appetizer, these cheese sticks will have everyone asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic flavor: This recipe replicates the exact cheesy goodness and buttery crust you get at Pizza Hut, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
  • Simple ingredients: You won’t need anything fancy—just a few kitchen staples to create a restaurant-quality snack.
  • Quick prep: From start to finish, the recipe comes together fast, perfect for busy nights.
  • Kid-friendly: Everyone loves a cheese stick, and these are soft enough for little hands yet crispy enough for adults.
  • Customizable: Easily tweak the ingredients to add herbs, spices, or dipping sauces for endless variations.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each playing a crucial role in achieving that trademark Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks texture and flavor. Fresh mozzarella gives that perfect melt, while garlic butter adds rich aroma and taste.

  • Pizza dough: Use store-bought or homemade dough for the crispy, chewy base.
  • Mozzarella cheese: Fresh shredded mozzarella is key for the gooey, stretchy inside.
  • Butter: Melted butter is used to brush on the sticks for a golden crust and added richness.
  • Garlic powder: Adds that classic garlic flavor hitting your taste buds just right.
  • Grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for that extra burst of cheesy flavor and appealing finish.
  • Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that lifts the overall flavor profile effortlessly.
  • Salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the savory notes.
  • Olive oil: Helps with crispiness when brushing the dough before baking.

Variations for Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

Feel free to get creative and customize your cheese sticks based on what you love or dietary needs—you can make these sticks uniquely yours with just a few easy swaps or additions.

  • Herb-infused butter: Add fresh parsley or basil to the butter for a fresh green kick.
  • Spicy cheese sticks: Mix some red pepper flakes into the butter for a subtle heat that perks up the flavor.
  • Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free pizza dough to make these cheese sticks friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.
  • Cheese blend: Incorporate provolone or cheddar with the mozzarella for a richer, multi-dimensional cheese pull.
  • Dipping sauce variations: Swap marinara for ranch, garlic butter, or spicy sriracha mayo to suit your mood.
Best Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks Recipe

How to Make Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

Begin by rolling the pizza dough out on a lightly floured surface into a rectangle about 12 by 8 inches. The even thickness ensures the sticks bake perfectly crispy yet soft inside.

Step 2: Add the Cheese

Generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the dough, making sure every bite will have that amazing gooey cheese.”

Step 3: Cut Into Sticks

Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 12 equal strips. Be careful not to pull the dough apart, so the cheese stays contained.

Step 4: Brush with Garlic Butter

In a small bowl, mix melted butter, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt. Brush this flavorful butter on every stick to add that golden, buttery crust.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Place the sticks on a parchment-lined baking tray and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the crust is a perfect golden brown.

Step 6: Add Parmesan and Serve

Once baked, immediately brush with a bit more garlic butter and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for an extra flavor punch. Serve warm and watch the cheese stretch!

Pro Tips for Making Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

  • Use fresh mozzarella: Freshly shredded cheese melts better for that signature gooey texture.
  • Don’t overfill: Avoid too much cheese spilling out to keep sticks intact and easy to eat.
  • Brush generously: Garlic butter makes the crust irresistibly flavorful and golden, so don’t skimp.
  • Preheat your oven: Make sure it’s fully heated for a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
  • Serve immediately: Cheese sticks are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven when the cheese is still stretchy and warm.

How to Serve Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

Garnishes

Finish your cheese sticks with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil to add a fresh, vibrant touch and elevate the presentation with a pop of color.

Side Dishes

Pair your cheese sticks with classic marinara sauce for dipping, or try ranch or creamy garlic dip to cater to different tastes. Crisp garden salads or spicy wings also make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange cheese sticks on a wooden board lined with parchment paper with small bowls of various sauces. Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a drizzle of chili oil for a gourmet touch that impresses guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks in foil or airtight containers and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them sealed prevents the crust from drying out.

Freezing

You can freeze uncooked cut cheese sticks by laying them flat on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. Bake directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Reheating

Reheat cheese sticks in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes to restore crispiness and melt the cheese without sogginess—avoid microwaving for the best texture.

FAQs

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella cheese?

While pre-shredded mozzarella works, freshly shredded cheese melts better and gives you that authentic stretchiness typical of Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks.

Is it necessary to use garlic powder in the butter?

Garlic powder adds signature flavor, but you can substitute with fresh minced garlic or garlic salt depending on your preference.

Can I bake these cheese sticks in an air fryer?

Yes! Preheat your air fryer to 375°F and cook the sticks for 8–10 minutes, shaking halfway through for even crispiness.

How do I prevent cheese from leaking out?

Cutting the dough gently and not overfilling with cheese helps keep the sticks intact during baking, minimizing leakage and mess.

Are there vegan alternatives for this recipe?

Absolutely! Use vegan pizza dough and vegan mozzarella cheese substitutes to make delicious dairy-free Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks that everyone can enjoy.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing quite like the joy of biting into a warm, cheesy, crispy snack that reminds you of your favorite Pizza Hut appetizer. This best Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks recipe is simple, customizable, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you make it for family dinners, parties, or just a fun treat, your kitchen will be filled with delightful aromas and happy smiles. So roll up those sleeves and give this recipe a whirl—you’ll wonder why you ever ordered out!

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Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks

This Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks recipe recreates the irresistible cheesy, golden-brown snack with a crispy buttery crust and gooey, stringy mozzarella cheese. Perfect for movie nights, appetizers, or quick snacks, these cheese sticks are simple to make, kid-friendly, and customizable, delivering restaurant-quality flavor right in your kitchen.

  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12-15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12 cheese sticks
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free dough)

Ingredients

Dough and Cheese

  • Pizza dough: 1 batch (store-bought or homemade, enough to roll into a 12×8 inch rectangle)
  • Mozzarella cheese: 2 cups fresh shredded mozzarella

Butter Garlic Topping

  • Butter: 4 tablespoons melted
  • Garlic powder: 1 teaspoon
  • Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
  • Salt: 1/4 teaspoon (pinch)

Finishing Touch

  • Grated Parmesan cheese: 2 tablespoons
  • Olive oil: 1 tablespoon (for brushing dough before baking)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dough: Roll the pizza dough out on a lightly floured surface into a 12 by 8 inch rectangle. This ensures even thickness for crispy yet soft cheese sticks.
  2. Add the Cheese: Generously sprinkle 2 cups of fresh shredded mozzarella evenly over the rolled dough so every piece has gooey cheese.
  3. Cut Into Sticks: Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the dough into 12 equal strips carefully to keep the cheese contained inside.
  4. Brush with Garlic Butter: In a small bowl, mix 4 tablespoons melted butter, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Brush this mixture on every stick for a golden, flavorful crust.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Place sticks on a parchment-lined baking tray. Bake in a preheated oven at 425°F (220°C) for 12 to 15 minutes until cheese is melted and crust is golden brown.
  6. Add Parmesan and Serve: Immediately after baking, brush the sticks with a bit more garlic butter and sprinkle 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese on top. Serve warm and enjoy the stretchy cheese!

Notes

  • Use fresh shredded mozzarella for the best melt and gooey texture.
  • Don’t overfill the cheese to avoid leakage during baking.
  • Brush the sticks generously with garlic butter to achieve a flavorful, golden crust.
  • Preheat the oven fully for a crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
  • Serve the cheese sticks immediately for optimal stretchiness and flavor.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cheese stick
  • Calories: 150
  • Sugar: 1g
  • Sodium: 250mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 0.5g
  • Protein: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: Pizza Hut Style Cheese Sticks, cheesy appetizer, mozzarella cheese sticks, garlic butter cheese sticks, homemade cheese sticks

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