Easy garlic parmesan breadsticks made with Pillsbury breadstick dough, grated Parmesan cheese, garlic and parsley.

Next week my oldest turns ten. TEN! Time feels strange when you watch a child grow — the late nights with a newborn, the toddler years full of endless energy, and the slow drift into independence. I find myself remembering small moments that once felt ordinary: rocking at 3 a.m., chasing him through the mall, and celebrating the milestones that flash by too quickly. Now, shopping together is a rare event and he has hobbies that don’t always include the family. As Halloween approaches each year and his birthday draws near, I try to carve out extra moments for him. It’s both joyful and a little bittersweet to realize how fast the years go by.

For the past week I’ve been planning family nights filled with his favorites: games, movies, and food he loves. One easy hit at our table is garlic Parmesan breadsticks. They’re simple, comforting, and a favorite with kids and adults alike. I make a semi-homemade version using Pillsbury Original Breadsticks for convenience on busy weeknights. With just a few pantry staples—grated Parmesan, garlic powder, butter and parsley—you can turn store-bought dough into a flavorful side or snack in minutes.

There are two easy ways to prepare these breadsticks: pull the dough apart and top with the garlic-parmesan mixture, or twist each breadstick for a classic Parmesan twist. Either method delivers a warm, buttery bite with a crisp, golden exterior and a soft center. If you want the cheese to adhere better during twisting, press the mixture gently into the dough before twisting. Serve them alongside pasta, soup, salad, or as a simple appetizer for family movie night.

Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks
Author: Crystal
Prep Time: 10 mins Cook Time: 13 mins Servings: 12
Ingredients
- Pillsbury Original Breadsticks (one tube or package, depending on size)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp butter, melted
- 1 tsp parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Separate the breadsticks from the tube and place them on an ungreased baking sheet, leaving a little space between each stick so they can expand.
- In a small bowl, combine the grated Parmesan and garlic powder. Chop the parsley and set aside.
- Brush each breadstick lightly with the melted butter. Sprinkle the Parmesan and garlic mixture over the buttered breadsticks, then sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. If you prefer to twist the breadsticks first, you can add the cheese afterward, or press the cheese gently into the dough before twisting so it adheres better.
- If twisting, twist each breadstick gently and return it to the baking sheet. Bake for 10–13 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown and cooked through. Baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the thickness of the dough.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving. These are best enjoyed warm.
Tips: For a fresher garlic flavor, substitute 1/2 teaspoon of finely minced fresh garlic for the garlic powder, mixing it into the melted butter before brushing. If you like a stronger cheese presence, increase the Parmesan to 1/3 cup. Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a simple garlic butter dip for extra appeal.

Thanks for stopping by!