Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard

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Sourdough discard recipes are one of my favorite ways to reduce waste in the kitchen while still creating something incredibly flavorful. These Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard are the perfect example of turning scraps into a savory, crowd-pleasing snack. They come together quickly, make use of sourdough discard, and deliver a cheesy, herby, golden-brown crust that’s impossible to resist.

I love serving these breadsticks when we have friends over or when we need a quick snack on a busy evening. The combination of tangy sourdough flavor, melty cheese, and aromatic herbs is just the kind of comfort food that disappears fast. They’re simple to make, require minimal proofing, and can be customized with any toppings you like.

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Why You’ll Love This Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard Recipe

• Fast and Easy: No need for long rise times—perfect for last-minute cravings.
• Reduces Waste: A brilliant use for your sourdough discard.
• Incredibly Flavorful: Cheesy, garlicky, and a touch tangy.
• Versatile: Add herbs, spices, or different cheeses for variety.
• Snack, Side, or Appetizer: Pairs well with soups, salads, or dips.

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What Kind of Cheese Works Best for Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard?

Choosing the right cheese can make all the difference in the flavor and texture of your breadsticks. I’ve found that low-moisture mozzarella gives the best melt with that signature stretch, while a sprinkle of Parmesan or Asiago adds a salty, umami-rich bite. If you’re after bold flavor, sharp cheddar is also fantastic. The key is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the tang of the sourdough discard.

You can also mix and match cheeses depending on what you have on hand. Even something like crumbled feta or goat cheese can work for a more Mediterranean twist, though they won’t give you that gooey texture.

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Options for Substitutions

Making these breadsticks flexible is part of the fun! If you don’t have everything listed, try one of these substitutions:

• Flour: All-purpose flour is the standard, but bread flour works for a slightly chewier bite.
• Cheese: Try Monterey Jack, Gruyère, provolone, or even vegan cheese alternatives.
• Butter: Swap with olive oil for a dairy-free option or a Mediterranean flavor.
• Herbs: Dried oregano and basil are classic, but rosemary, thyme, or Italian seasoning are great alternatives.
• Garlic powder: Fresh minced garlic adds a punch, or use garlic-infused oil for a subtler note.
• Sourdough discard: No discard? Use a mix of flour and water (equal parts by weight) with a splash of vinegar or yogurt to mimic the tang.

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Ingredients for Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard

These simple ingredients come together to create an irresistible pan of cheesy, golden breadsticks. Each one plays a key role in texture, flavor, or structure.

• Sourdough Discard
  This is the star of the show. It brings a subtle tanginess, enriches the dough, and helps reduce waste from your sourdough starter routine.
• All-Purpose Flour
  Provides structure and body to the dough. It keeps the breadsticks light enough to stay tender while giving them a bit of chew.
• Baking Powder
  Since this recipe doesn’t rely on a long ferment or rise, baking powder is the leavening agent that gives the breadsticks their lift and lightness.
• Salt
  Essential for bringing out the flavors in both the dough and the toppings.
• Garlic Powder
  Adds a warm, savory depth that pairs beautifully with the cheese and herbs.
• Butter (melted)
  Brushed over the dough before baking, it helps crisp the edges and adds that buttery richness.
• Mozzarella Cheese
  Melts beautifully and gives the breadsticks their signature gooey, stretchy texture.
• Parmesan Cheese (optional but recommended)
  Adds a sharp, nutty layer of flavor and crisps up deliciously in the oven.
• Dried Oregano or Italian Seasoning
  Sprinkled over the top for a classic herby finish that complements the tangy dough and rich cheese.

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Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with butter or oil. This ensures your breadsticks won’t stick and helps them bake evenly.

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Step 2: Mix the Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine your sourdough discard, flour, baking powder, salt, and garlic powder. Stir until a soft dough forms. It should be pliable but not sticky—if it’s too dry, add a teaspoon of water; too wet, sprinkle in a little more flour.

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Step 3: Shape and Flatten

Turn the dough onto the prepared baking sheet. Use your hands or a rolling pin to gently press it into a thin, even rectangle—about ¼ inch thick. The thinner the dough, the crispier the edges will be.

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Step 4: Add Butter and Cheese

Brush the entire surface of the dough with melted butter. Then generously sprinkle shredded mozzarella and Parmesan over the top, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Finally, dust with dried oregano or your favorite herb mix for a beautiful aromatic finish.

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Step 5: Score the Breadsticks

Use a knife or pizza cutter to lightly score the dough into strips—don’t cut all the way through. This will make it easier to break apart the breadsticks after baking.

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Step 6: Bake

Slide the tray into your preheated oven and bake for 15–18 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown, and the edges are slightly crisp.

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Step 7: Cool and Slice

Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Then cut along your score lines to separate the breadsticks. Serve warm or at room temperature—they’re delicious either way.

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How Long to Cook the Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard

These breadsticks are fast, which is part of their magic. Once your oven is preheated to 425°F (220°C), they typically bake in about 15 to 18 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when:

• The cheese is golden and bubbly
• The edges are crisp and slightly browned
• The bottom of the dough feels firm and not soft when lifted gently

Keep a close eye after the 15-minute mark—depending on your oven or thickness of the dough, the time may vary slightly.

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Tips for Perfect Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard

• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Just mix until combined. Overmixing can make the breadsticks tough.
• Thin Is In: For crispy edges, roll the dough out to about ¼ inch thick. If you prefer a softer, more pillowy texture, make them slightly thicker.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect melt quality. Shred your own for that perfect gooey texture.
• Butter Brilliance: Don’t skip the melted butter—before baking for flavor, and even after baking for a glossy finish.
• Herb Boost: Add a sprinkle of chili flakes or smoked paprika for a little heat or extra depth.
• Let Them Rest: Give them a couple minutes out of the oven before slicing—they’ll hold together better.
• Double the Batch: These go fast! You can easily double the ingredients and use two trays.
• Serve Warm: They’re best enjoyed fresh and warm when the cheese is at its melty best.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even though this recipe is quick and beginner-friendly, a few small missteps can keep your breadsticks from turning out just right. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using Cold Discard: Let your sourdough discard come to room temperature before mixing. Cold discard can make the dough stiffer and harder to mix evenly.
• Skipping the Parchment or Grease: These cheesy breadsticks can stick like glue. A lined or greased pan is essential.
• Overbaking: Once the cheese starts to brown and bubble, they’re ready. Overbaking can lead to dry, tough breadsticks.
• Uneven Rolling: If one side is thicker, you’ll get uneven baking. Try to roll out the dough evenly across the whole surface.
• Not Scoring Before Baking: Pre-scoring helps create clean lines and prevents the cheese from pulling everything apart when you slice.
• Using Wet Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella has too much moisture. Use low-moisture blocks and shred it yourself.
• Underseasoning: Don’t be shy with the salt, garlic, or herbs. These flavors make the difference between bland and crave-worthy.
• Serving Too Late: These are at their best warm and gooey. Try to time your bake close to when you’ll be serving.

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What to Serve With Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard?

Breadsticks are versatile, and these cheesy, savory sticks can go with a wide range of dishes or dips. Here are 8 delicious pairing ideas:

Marinara or Pizza Sauce

A warm, zesty dip for that classic pizzeria vibe.

Tomato Soup

Comfort food heaven—dunk away.

Caesar Salad

Crunchy, tangy greens balanced by cheesy breadsticks.

Baked Ziti or Lasagna

A perfect side for hearty pasta dinners.

Shakshuka

Scoop up those saucy, spicy poached eggs with a crispy stick.

Herbed Cream Cheese or Garlic Spread

A cool, creamy contrast to the warm, cheesy bread.

Caramelized Onion Dip

Sweet and savory magic together in every bite.

A Glass of Red Wine

Yes, really—especially if you’ve added bold cheese like Asiago or sharp cheddar.

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Storage Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house), these Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard store surprisingly well.

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 1 day. They’ll lose a bit of their crispness but are still tasty.
• Refrigerator: Keep them in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes to bring back the crisp and melt.
• Freezer: These freeze great! Place cooled breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes.
• Reheating Tip: Avoid microwaving—they’ll get rubbery. Use the oven or toaster oven for best results.

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Estimated Nutrition

Please note: nutritional values are approximate and will vary depending on your ingredients and portion sizes.

For 1 breadstick (assuming about 12 per batch):

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 5g
• Sodium: 240mg
• Sugar: <1g
• Fiber: <1g
• Calcium: ~10% DV (thanks to the cheese)

These breadsticks are a satisfying snack or side dish that provides a balance of carbs, fats, and protein, especially when paired with a veggie-heavy main or dip.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is sourdough discard, and can I use active starter instead?

Sourdough discard is the portion of starter you remove before feeding. It’s inactive but still flavorful. You can use active starter, but the breadsticks may puff slightly more and have a more yeasty aroma.

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Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes! Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Texture may vary slightly, but it still works. Just make sure your sourdough discard was made with gluten-free flour as well.

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Do I need to let the dough rise?

Not at all. This is a quick, no-rise recipe thanks to baking powder. You’ll have hot breadsticks ready in under 30 minutes.

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Can I prep the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can mix the dough, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bring it to room temp before rolling out and baking.

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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes, or in the air fryer for a quick crisp. Avoid microwaving—it makes them rubbery.

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Can I add toppings like olives or jalapeños?

Absolutely! Chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, jalapeños, or even pepperoni slices work beautifully for added flavor.

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How can I make it spicier?

Sprinkle red pepper flakes, drizzle with hot honey after baking, or mix a dash of cayenne into the dough.

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Are these breadsticks good for kids?

Kids love them! You can skip the garlic or spice for a milder version and serve with a simple marinara dip for a kid-friendly snack.

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Conclusion

These Quick Sourdough Cheesy Breadsticks with Discard are the kind of recipe that feels like a cheat code in the kitchen. They’re fast, flexible, and make use of something you’d otherwise throw away—turning it into a golden, cheesy, crispy-on-the-edges snack that hits the spot every time. Whether you’re whipping them up for a cozy night in, a potluck appetizer, or a side for soup or salad, these breadsticks are guaranteed to disappear fast. And with endless options to customize, they’ll never get boring.

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