If you’re looking for the ultimate blend of comfort food and irresistible snack, say hello to Mac and Cheese Breadsticks. Picture golden pizza dough stuffed with velvety cheddar macaroni, finished with a shower of Parmesan and served warm for dunking—these breadsticks are the kind of treat that vanishes within minutes at any gathering. The combination of cheesy pull-apart breadsticks and classic mac and cheese is as cozy as it sounds, and sure to become a new favorite snack or appetizer in your home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The secret behind amazing Mac and Cheese Breadsticks lies in a small list of pantry staples—and every single ingredient earns its place! Each one brings texture, gooeyness, or flavor, creating magic with every bite.
- Elbow macaroni (1 cup): Classic pasta shape that’s just the right size to tuck inside the breadsticks.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Delivers richness and helps create a creamy cheese sauce.
- All-purpose flour (1 tablespoon): Thickens the sauce so it hugs every macaroni noodle.
- Milk (1 cup): Makes the cheese sauce luxuriously smooth—whole milk works best here.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1¼ cups, divided): The heart of the recipe; use sharp cheddar for the richest flavor.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Adds depth and a hint of savory warmth.
- Salt (¼ teaspoon): Boosts all the buttery, cheesy notes.
- Refrigerated pizza dough (1 can): The shortcut to tender, golden breadsticks every time.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons): For that salty, nutty finish on top.
- Chopped parsley (1 tablespoon, optional): A pop of green and freshness if you want to get fancy.
- Marinara sauce (for dipping, optional): Tangy tomato goodness that pairs perfectly with cheesy breadsticks.
How to Make Mac and Cheese Breadsticks
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prep Your Pan
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C), so it’s nice and hot for baking. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper—not only for easy cleanup, but also to ensure these Mac and Cheese Breadsticks lift off perfectly golden and intact every single time.
Step 2: Cook the Macaroni
Fill a pot with salted water and cook your elbow macaroni according to the package directions until just al dente (we want them tender but not too soft, since they’ll bake more in the oven). Drain the noodles well and set them aside—you’re halfway to cheesy bliss!
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce
Grab a saucepan and melt the butter on medium heat. Whisk in the flour and let it bubble for about a minute, stirring constantly. This step toasts the flour and takes away any raw taste. Now, slowly whisk in the milk until you have a smooth, creamy base. After about 3–4 minutes, the mixture will thicken. Stir in 1 cup of cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and salt. Once the cheese melts and the sauce is luscious, fold in your cooked macaroni and mix until gloriously cheesy. Let it cool slightly—this makes assembly a breeze.
Step 4: Roll Out the Dough and Fill
On your lined baking sheet, unroll the pizza dough and gently stretch or roll it into a large rectangle. Spoon the mac and cheese mixture evenly over one half of the dough, leaving a small border along the edges. Fold the empty half of dough over the top like closing a book, then press and pinch the edges to seal in all that creamy filling.
Step 5: Top, Slice, and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup cheddar cheese over the top, followed by the Parmesan for a savory, golden crust. Use a sharp knife or pizza cutter to slice the dough into 1-inch strips. Don’t separate them—bake them close together, which keeps the filling moist and yields ultra-soft breadsticks. Pop the pan into the oven and bake for 18–20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Step 6: Cool, Separate, and Serve
Take the breadsticks out and let them cool for just a few minutes. Slice fully along the cuts to separate each gooey Mac and Cheese Breadstick. Add a sprinkle of parsley if you like a burst of green, then grab a dish of warm marinara sauce and dig in while they’re still melty.
How to Serve Mac and Cheese Breadsticks
Garnishes
While Mac and Cheese Breadsticks are amazing right out of the oven, finishing with freshly chopped parsley adds a touch of color and a hint of freshness. For even more flavor, try a light dusting of smoked paprika or extra Parmesan before serving—it’s all about that wow factor.
Side Dishes
Pair your breadsticks with a crisp green salad to balance the cheesy goodness, or serve a bowl of tomato soup for classic comfort. They’re also fantastic alongside grilled or roasted veggies, adding a hearty, kid-approved twist to any meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Cut the breadsticks into bite-sized portions for party trays, or serve in a basket lined with parchment and let guests pull them apart. For fun family nights, set up a “dipping bar” with marinara, ranch, and spicy cheese sauces to let everyone customize their Mac and Cheese Breadsticks experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let leftover Mac and Cheese Breadsticks cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or zip-top bag. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—they’ll stay cheesy and soft, perfect for late-night snacking or a quick lunch.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap individual breadsticks tightly in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep their flavor for up to 2 months. When a craving hits, just pull out a few—you’ll always have a cheesy treat at the ready.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat Mac and Cheese Breadsticks in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 8–10 minutes. You can also microwave them for about 30 seconds per breadstick, though they’ll be softer. Add a sprinkle of extra cheese before reheating for even more gooey goodness.
FAQs
Can I use homemade pizza dough instead of canned?
Absolutely! Homemade dough works beautifully and will give your Mac and Cheese Breadsticks a slightly chewier, more rustic crust. Just roll it thin and watch the baking time; you might need a couple of extra minutes.
Can I add extra toppings or fillings?
Definitely—crisped bacon bits, chopped jalapeños, or even caramelized onions all make wonderful additions. Just fold them into the mac and cheese mixture before spreading it onto the dough.
What’s the best cheese for these breadsticks?
Sharp cheddar is a classic choice, but you can mix things up with mozzarella, pepper jack, or even a little Gruyère for richness. Combine different cheeses for your own signature flavor!
How do I keep the breadsticks from getting soggy?
Make sure your macaroni is well-drained and the cheese sauce isn’t too runny. Letting the mac and cheese cool before filling helps prevent extra moisture from soaking into the dough.
Is there a gluten-free option?
Yes! Swap in gluten-free macaroni and use a ready-made or homemade gluten-free pizza dough. Double-check your other ingredients, and you’ll have delicious gluten-free Mac and Cheese Breadsticks everyone can enjoy.
Final Thoughts
If you love fun, crowd-pleasing snacks or just want to treat your family, Mac and Cheese Breadsticks absolutely deserve a spot on your menu. They’re cheesy, comforting, and unexpected—just the thing to fuel laughter, conversation, and happy memories. Grab these simple ingredients and give them a try; you might just find your new go-to recipe!
Print
Mac and Cheese Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Mac and Cheese Breadsticks are a delightful fusion of two favorite comfort foods, perfect for snacking or as a fun appetizer. Creamy macaroni and cheese is rolled up in pizza dough, baked until golden, and served with marinara sauce for dipping.
Ingredients
For the Mac and Cheese:
- 1 cup elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1¼ cups shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Breadsticks:
- 1 can refrigerated pizza dough
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
- marinara sauce (for dipping, optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cook Macaroni: Cook macaroni in salted water according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then slowly add milk, stirring until smooth and thickened. Add 1 cup cheddar cheese, garlic powder, and salt, and stir until melted. Mix in the cooked macaroni.
- Assemble Breadsticks: Roll out pizza dough into a rectangle on the baking sheet. Spread the mac and cheese over half of the dough, fold the other half over, and press to seal. Sprinkle remaining cheddar and Parmesan on top.
- Bake: Slice the dough into strips without separating them. Bake for 18–20 minutes until golden. Cool slightly, then cut and garnish with parsley if desired.
- Serve: Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add crumbled bacon or jalapeños to the mac and cheese.
- Great for parties, game day, or a family dinner.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 breadstick
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 6g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
