Let’s be honest; sticking to keto doesn’t mean your cravings just disappear; especially when it comes to warm, cheesy breadsticks. That’s where these keto cheesy breadsticks come in; crispy on the edges, gooey in the center, and made with just a handful of simple, keto-approved ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
These keto cheesy breadsticks aren’t just low in carbs (only about 2g net per serving); they’re quick too, ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re planning a game-day spread, need a cozy side dish, or just want something satisfying to dip into marinara sauce, this recipe delivers comfort without compromise.
Craving something indulgent yet totally on plan? These keto cheesy breadsticks are here to prove that you don’t have to give up your favorites, you just need the right version.
Why These Keto Cheesy Breadsticks Are Special
These keto cheesy breadsticks aren’t your average low-carb snack; they’re a smarter, tastier twist on a classic. Instead of heavy wheat flour, they’re made with almond flour and mozzarella for that perfect bread-like texture; without the carb crash. Thanks to the fathead dough method, you get a sturdy yet tender base that melts beautifully under a layer of golden cheese.
They’re perfect for dipping in low-carb marinara, pairing with a fresh Caesar salad, or serving alongside your favorite keto dinner. Whether it’s game day or a comfort food craving, these keto cheesy breadsticks always deliver big flavor with zero guilt.
Need a quick dinner side or cozy snack? These keto cheesy breadsticks have you covered.
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Ingredients
For the Breadstick Base:
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Cream cheese, softened
- Egg
- Almond flour
- Garlic powder
- Italian seasoning
- Salt
For the Cheesy Topping:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Shredded mozzarella cheese
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Butter, melted
- Garlic powder
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions
Make the Dough
- Preheat oven to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 2 cups mozzarella and cream cheese in 30-second intervals until smooth.
- Stir in egg, then add almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt until a soft dough forms.
Shape the Breadsticks
- Roll dough between parchment paper into a 12x8 inch rectangle.
- Transfer to baking sheet and cut into 8-10 breadstick shapes using a pizza cutter.
- Slightly separate each breadstick.
First Bake
- Bake for 12-15 minutes until edges are golden brown and surface looks set.
- This ensures the breadsticks hold their shape when you add toppings.
Add Cheese and Finish
- Brush with melted butter mixed with garlic powder.
- Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake 5-7 more minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and let cool 3-4 minutes before serving.
- Step 1: Make the Dough
Melt cheese, mix in dry ingredients and egg until a soft dough forms.
- Step 2: Shape the Breadsticks
Roll the dough out and cut into breadstick shapes before baking.
- Step 3: First Bake
Bake until edges are golden and the surface is set.
- Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish
Add the cheesy topping and bake until bubbly and golden.
Smart Ingredient Swaps
Looking to customize your keto cheesy breadsticks to fit dietary needs or just switch things up a bit? These smart ingredient swaps let you stay flexible while keeping flavor and texture on point:
- Almond Flour Substitute: Need a nut-free option? Swap the almond flour for ⅓ cup coconut flour. Since coconut flour absorbs more moisture, you’ll need less of it. The texture stays firm, and the breadsticks still hold together beautifully.
- Dairy-Free Version: Going dairy-free? Try using dairy-free mozzarella-style shreds and replace the cream cheese with a few tablespoons of coconut cream. While the texture may be slightly different, the result is still rich, melty, and satisfying.
- Extra Flavor Boost: Want to punch up the flavor even more? Add a pinch of dried oregano, onion powder, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the dough. It’s an easy way to give your breadsticks a savory twist or a little heat.
- Cauliflower Twist: For a veggie-packed version, mix in ½ cup of riced cauliflower (well-drained) into the dough. It adds extra fiber and moisture while transforming your breadsticks into keto-friendly cauliflower cheesy breadsticks.
Expert Cooking Tips & Tricks
- Mind the Heat: Bake your keto cheesy breadsticks at a steady 425°F. Too low and they’ll stay soft; too high and they’ll brown too fast without fully cooking.
- Choose Quality Cheese: Skip the bagged stuff. Shredding mozzarella from a block gives you smoother melting and better texture; pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can mess with the final result.
- Get the Dough Just Right: Aim for a soft, pliable pizza dough feel. Too sticky? Sprinkle in almond flour a bit at a time. Too stiff? A quick 10-second microwave burst helps bring it back to life.
- Bake Evenly: Don’t forget to rotate your baking sheet halfway through; this helps your keto cheesy breadsticks get evenly golden and crisp on all sides.
Recipe Variations & Dietary Modifications
- Keto Cheesy Zucchini Breadsticks
Lighten things up by swapping half the almond flour with finely grated, well-drained zucchini. Just be sure to squeeze out excess moisture with a kitchen towel before mixing it in. - Spicy Jalapeño Version
Add 2–3 finely diced jalapeños and a dash of cayenne to the dough. Swap mozzarella for pepper jack if you love a little extra fire in your keto cheesy breadsticks. - Herb-Crusted Twist
Switch out Italian seasoning for a custom blend of basil, oregano, and thyme. Finish with chopped rosemary in the butter topping for an earthy, aromatic upgrade. - Bacon Lover’s Dream
Fold in ¼ cup crumbled, cooked bacon and sprinkle more on top before baking. These keto cheesy breadsticks become smoky, savory, and seriously addictive. - Dairy-Free Adaptation
Use dairy-free mozzarella-style shreds and cashew cream in place of regular cheese. The texture changes slightly, but your keto cheesy breadsticks stay rich and satisfying—no dairy required.
Essential Equipment
- Large Baking Sheet: A heavy-duty sheet prevents warping and ensures even heat distribution. Nordic Ware makes excellent options.
- Parchment Paper: Non-stick surface prevents sticking and makes cleanup effortless.
- Pizza Cutter: Creates clean, even cuts without dragging the dough.
- Microwave-Safe Mixing Bowl: Glass or ceramic works best for melting cheese without hot spots.
- Rolling Pin: For even thickness, though you can also press with your hands.
- Budget-Friendly Alternative: Use a clean wine bottle as a rolling pin if you don't have one.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
- Refrigerator Storage
Store leftover keto cheesy breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best texture, reheat in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes to bring back the crisp edges; or microwave for 30–45 seconds if you prefer them softer. - Freezing Instructions
These low-carb breadsticks freeze like a dream. Wrap each one in plastic wrap, place them in a freezer-safe bag, and store for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as above. - Make-Ahead Tips
You can prep the dough up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it, covered. Let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before rolling and baking. For extra convenience, shape your keto cheesy breadsticks and freeze them before baking; then just bake straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.
My Game-Changing Breadstick Secret
I used to think my keto cheesy breadsticks were good—until I stumbled on one tiny trick that made them great. After countless batches that cracked, crumbled, or just wouldn’t roll right, I paused one day and let the dough rest... just five minutes. That’s all it took to turn the texture from frustrating to flawless.
Letting the dough sit gives the almond flour time to fully absorb the moisture; suddenly, everything comes together like classic pizza dough—smooth, stretchy, and easy to shape. Since then, it’s been my quiet little secret to getting breadsticks so good, even non-keto guests ask for seconds.
FAQ
How many carbs are in cheesy breadsticks?
Traditional ones can have 15–25g of carbs per serving. These keto cheesy breadsticks have just about 2g net carbs, making them perfect for low-carb diets.
Are breadsticks keto friendly?
Most aren’t, since they’re made with wheat flour. But keto cheesy breadsticks use almond flour and cheese, making them a great keto-approved option.
Are breadsticks and cheese healthy?
Regular versions can be high in carbs and sodium. Keto cheesy breadsticks offer more healthy fats, fewer carbs, and a better fit for low-carb goals.
Is bread cheese keto friendly?
Yes! Bread cheese is low in carbs and high in fat, much like keto cheesy breadsticks, making it ideal for keto eaters.
Craving Something Cheesy? Let’s Make It Happen
If you’ve been missing warm, garlicky bread on your keto journey, these keto cheesy breadsticks are about to become your new favorite sidekick. Crispy on the outside, melty in the middle, and full of flavor, they’re the kind of comfort food that wins over even the non-keto folks at the table.
While you're at it, why not turn tonight into a full-on flavor fest? Pair your breadsticks with Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken for a satisfying dinner, or go all-in with my Garlic Parmesan Cheeseburger Bombs ; trust me, they’re a hit. Once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them.
Go ahead, preheat that oven and make your kitchen smell like a dream. And hey, if you snap a photo of your masterpiece, send it my way, I love seeing your delicious twists. Let me know which version you fall in love with first!
Related
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Pairing
These are my favorite dishes to serve with this Keto Cheesy Breadsticks Recipe:
Keto Cheesy Breadsticks
Equipment
- 1 Baking sheet
- 1 Parchment paper
- 1 Microwave-safe mixing bowl
- 1 Rolling Pin
- 1 Pizza Cutter
Ingredients
For the Breadstick Base
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
For the Cheesy Topping
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 0.25 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoon butter melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
- Preheat to 425°F and line a baking sheet with parchment.
- Melt mozzarella and cream cheese in microwave-safe bowl.
- Add egg, almond flour, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and salt. Stir into a dough.
- Roll between parchment sheets into a 12x8 inch rectangle.
- Slice into 8–10 sticks and slightly separate on the sheet.
- Bake for 12–15 minutes until golden and set.
- Brush with garlic butter; sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake another 5–7 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Let rest for 3–4 minutes before serving.
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