There’s something utterly comforting about the golden, gooey goodness of freshly baked cheese sticks that brings me back to my favorite pizza nights. One evening, while reminiscing about the cheerful times spent sharing slices with friends, I decided to create a homemade version of those beloved Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks. It started as a fun experiment, and what emerged was a recipe that made my taste buds sing!
In just 30 minutes, you can whip up a batch of these cheesy delights, making them perfect for a movie night, a casual get-together, or even a midweek snack. With a simple mix of pizza dough, two types of cheese, and a dash of garlic and Italian seasoning, these sticks not only taste indulgent, but they are also easy enough for anyone to master. So, if you’re tired of fast food and looking to elevate your snacking game, grab your apron and let’s get started on this delicious adventure!
Why love Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?
Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight snack.
Cheesy Goodness: With both mozzarella and Parmesan, every bite is bursting with rich, mouthwatering flavor.
Homemade Comfort: Skip the takeout and enjoy a fun cooking experience in your kitchen, bringing warmth and joy to your family.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite herbs or even spices to tailor these sticks to your taste!
Crowd Favorite: Whether it’s for game night or a casual gathering, these cheese sticks are guaranteed to impress and keep everyone coming back for more. Plus, for more easy recipes, check out our selection of great snack ideas.
Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Ingredients
Transform your kitchen into a cheesy haven with these delightful ingredients!
For the Dough
- 1 lb pizza dough – This is the foundation for your cheese sticks, providing the perfect chewy texture.
For the Cheese Filling
- 2 cups whole milk mozzarella cheese, shredded – This cheese melts beautifully, creating that signature gooeyness.
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated – Adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the mozzarella perfectly.
For the Seasoning
- 2 tsp garlic powder – Essential for that aromatic flavor, adding a savory touch to your cheese sticks.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – This brings a delightful herbaceous note that enhances the overall taste.
For the Finish
- 4 tbsp butter, melted – Brushing on melted butter gives a golden, crispy finish to your sticks.
Get ready to indulge in delicious homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks that are sure to be a hit with family and friends!
How to Make Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
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Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a perfectly crispy texture when baking. This step is crucial for that golden brown finish you’ll love!
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Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about half an inch thick. Aim for a rectangle shape to perfectly envelop all that cheese!
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Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over half of the dough, then fold the other half over like an envelope, creating a cheesy surprise inside. Be generous with your cheese!
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Slice the dough into strips about one inch wide and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give them a little space to grow and get crispy.
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Brush the melted butter over each stick, generously coating them. Then sprinkle with garlic powder and Italian seasoning for that extra burst of flavor.
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Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and bubbly. Allow them to cool slightly before serving—this is the hardest part!
Optional: Serve with your favorite marinara sauce for dipping.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?
Bite into pure comfort with these cheesy delights, perfect for elevating any occasion or casual snack time.
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Marinara Sauce: A classic pairing that complements the cheesy richness with a tangy tomato flavor. It’s perfect for dipping!
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Garlic Butter Dip: Whip up a buttery garlic sauce that amplifies the savory notes, making every bite even more irresistible.
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Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and the creaminess of Caesar dressing balance the cheesy sticks beautifully, adding a refreshing touch.
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Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory bites echo the Italian flavors and add an earthy richness to your meal, creating delightful texture contrasts.
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Buffalo Wings: The spicy kick pairs wonderfully with the comforting cheese sticks, making for a finger-licking game day spread.
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Wine Spritzers: Refreshing and lightly carbonated, these drinks cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
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Chocolate Lava Cake: For dessert, indulge in a warm, gooey chocolate treat that rounds out your cheesy feast with a sweet finish.
Expert Tips for Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
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Dough Thickness Matters: Make sure to roll the pizza dough to about half an inch thick. This ensures a perfect balance between a crispy exterior and a gooey interior.
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Cheese Choices: For a more gourmet twist, try mixing in provolone or cheddar with the mozzarella to diversify the flavor profile of your Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks.
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Space is Key: When arranging the sticks on your baking sheet, give them enough space to expand while baking. This prevents them from sticking together.
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Butter Brushing: Don’t skimp on the melted butter! Generously brush it on for a crispier texture and enhanced flavor.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow the cheese sticks to cool for a few minutes after baking. This helps maintain their cheesy integrity and makes them easier to handle.
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Avoid Overbaking: Keep an eye on them while baking! Overbaked cheese sticks can become hard, so take them out when they’re golden brown and bubbly.
Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Variations
Embrace your creativity and let these mouthwatering cheese sticks shine with your unique flair!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the mozzarella with a dairy-free cheese alternative to cater to lactose intolerance while still enjoying cheesy goodness.
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Herbed Delight: Mix fresh herbs like basil or oregano into the cheese for a fragrant twist that elevates the flavor profile; it’s an aromatic surprise with every bite!
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the garlic powder to spice things up! This variation creates a delightful heat that pleasantly lingers.
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Stuffed Surprise: Incorporate cooked pepperoni or sautéed vegetables into the cheese filling for a heartier option. These additions make every stick a little adventure!
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Sweet Taste: Drizzle some honey or serve with a side of sweet marinara sauce for a unique sweet-and-savory experience. It’s a playful dip that surprises the palate!
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Cheesy Layering: Mix in other cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a flavor-packed fusion. Each bite becomes a melty explosion, keeping it interesting and delicious.
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Garlic Parmesan Crust: Before baking, toss some extra grated Parmesan cheese on top of the sticks for a crispy, cheesy crust. Your guests will be reaching for seconds!
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Crispy Outside: Try frying them in a bit of oil instead of baking for a crispy exterior. This technique produces a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft cheese filling.
Make Ahead Options
These Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are the perfect recipe for meal prep enthusiasts! You can easily prepare the dough and cheese filling up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply roll out the pizza dough and layer the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses before slicing into strips. Arrange the sticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover them tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, brush the tops with melted butter, sprinkle on the garlic powder and Italian seasoning, and pop them in the oven. This way, you can enjoy restaurant-quality cheese sticks with minimal effort on busy weeknights, all while keeping the flavors just as delicious!
How to Store and Freeze Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks
Fridge: Keep your leftover Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Enjoy them cold or reheat for a quick snack!
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cheese sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This restores their crunch and melty goodness perfectly!
Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best pizza dough for making cheese sticks?
Absolutely! Opt for fresh pizza dough when possible, as it provides the best flavor and texture. Look for dough that’s slightly elastic and has a light, airy quality. If you’re using store-bought, check the expiration date to ensure it’s fresh.
How should I store leftover cheese sticks?
Very simply! Place your leftover Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure they cool completely first to avoid steam making them soggy!
Can I freeze Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks?
Definitely! To freeze, lay the cheese sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re completely firm. Once set, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, sealing out as much air as possible. They’ll keep fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake from frozen without thawing—just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
What should I do if my cheese sticks aren’t cheesy enough?
If you find your cheese sticks lack that gooeyness, ensure you’re using quality mozzarella—whole milk mozzarella melts better. For an extra cheesy experience, consider adding more cheese inside or mixing in a little cream cheese with the mozzarella for that extra rich texture.
Are these cheese sticks safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks are safe for humans, you should avoid sharing them with pets. Garlic powder can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s best to keep these delicious snacks to yourself!
How do I reheat cheese sticks to retain their crispiness?
To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the cheese sticks on a baking sheet and heat them for about 10 minutes. This method revives their original crunchiness and melty center beautifully! Enjoy your cheesy snack again!
Homemade Pizza Hut Cheese Sticks You'll Crave Daily
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) to ensure a perfectly crispy texture when baking.
- Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it's about half an inch thick.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella evenly over half of the dough, then fold the other half over like an envelope.
- Slice the dough into strips about one inch wide and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Brush the melted butter over each stick, generously coating them.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes or until they turn golden brown and bubbly.
- Allow them to cool slightly before serving.