
There’s something deeply nostalgic about those buttery, garlicky breadsticks that arrive at your table with a piping hot Pizza Hut pizza. The golden crust, the fluffy center, the signature garlic butter topping—it’s comfort food perfection. This homemade version captures everything you love about the original, from the tender, pull-apart texture to that savory, melt-in-your-mouth finish. And the best part? You can make them right in your own kitchen with just a few pantry staples.
I started making these as a side for homemade pizza night, and now they’ve become a must-have. The dough is easy to work with, and once you try that garlic butter topping fresh out of the oven, you’ll never settle for the store-bought version again.
Essential Ingredients and Why They Matter
- Active Dry Yeast (2¼ tsp): Gives the dough its airy rise. Let it sit in warm water for a few minutes until foamy—this ensures it’s alive and ready to go.
- Warm Water (1 cup, around 110°F): Just the right temp to activate the yeast without killing it.
- All-Purpose Flour (2½ cups): The base of the dough. Spoon and level it when measuring to avoid dense breadsticks.
- Salt (1 tsp in dough, ¼ tsp in butter topping): Balances flavor and enhances everything from the dough to the garlic butter.
- Unsalted Butter (¼ cup, melted): For brushing over the tops after baking. It’s what makes these irresistible.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp): Delivers that signature Pizza Hut garlic flavor.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese (¼ cup): Sprinkled on top, it melts slightly into the butter, adding a salty, nutty finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Copycat Pizza Hut Breadsticks

- Step 1: Make the Dough
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until bubbly and foamy. This step is crucial—it shows the yeast is active. Add flour and salt, then mix and knead for 5–7 minutes, until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- Transfer the dough to a greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Step 3: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks
- Punch down the dough to release air. Divide into 10–12 equal pieces. Roll each into a breadstick shape and place on the baking sheet with a bit of space between them. They’ll expand as they bake.
- Step 5: Bake
- Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until the tops are lightly golden and the centers are soft but cooked through. Avoid overbaking to keep that pillowy texture.
- Step 6: Make the Topping
- While the breadsticks bake, melt butter in a small bowl and stir in garlic powder and salt. You can also add a pinch of dried parsley if desired.
- Step 7: Brush and Sprinkle
- As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush generously with the garlic butter. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan while still warm so it sticks.
- Step 8: Serve
- Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce. These are best enjoyed fresh, but they reheat beautifully too.
When I first started making these, I was surprised how quickly they came together. My family now insists I double the recipe every time because they’re always the first thing gone at the table.
Fun Variations to Try
- Herb Breadsticks: Add dried oregano or basil to the dough or butter topping
- Cheese-Stuffed: Wrap the dough around mozzarella sticks before baking
- Sweet Version: Swap garlic butter for melted butter with cinnamon sugar
- Spicy: Mix cayenne or red pepper flakes into the butter for a kick
These breadsticks are a blank canvas—you can easily adjust the flavor to match your meal or mood.

Perfect Pairings for Pizza Hut Breadsticks
- Pizza Night: Serve alongside homemade or delivery pizza
- Pasta Dinners: Pair with spaghetti, lasagna, or Alfredo
- Party Snacks: Set out with dips for game day or potlucks
- Soup Sidekick: Serve with tomato soup or creamy broccoli cheddar
Whether you're recreating a takeout favorite or building a better pizza night at home, these Copycat Pizza Hut Breadsticks are guaranteed to be a hit. Fluffy, buttery, and endlessly dippable—they taste like they came straight from the pizzeria.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze the dough? Yes—freeze after the first rise. Thaw overnight in the fridge and shape before baking.
- Can I use instant yeast instead? Yes—just skip the activation step and mix it directly into the dry ingredients.
- What’s the best dipping sauce? Marinara, ranch, garlic butter, or even Alfredo sauce work great.
- How long do leftovers last? 2–3 days in an airtight container. Reheat for best texture.