Who doesn’t love a breadstick? It’s the perfect complement to many types of meals, especially pasta. Warm, soft and full of flavor, breadsticks are always a favorite in our home.

This week, my son made our favorite Crowd-Pleasing Bolognese while I baked a batch of Homestyle Breadsticks. The combination was even better than what I’ve had at most Italian restaurants.

My family loves bread in just about any form, so finding new ways to serve it keeps me inspired in the kitchen. These Homestyle Breadsticks are especially fun to make because they’re a little different than the individually rolled ones you often find at restaurants or the grocery store. Instead, the dough is spread over a baking sheet, allowed to rise, and then cut into sticks after baking. This method keeps the center soft and pillowy.

Another bonus? The topping, a buttery mixture of parmesan, garlic and herbs, gets poured over the dough before baking, adding delicious flavor and a beautiful golden finish. I used fresh parsley from the garden this time, but dried parsley flakes work just as well.

They’re perfect as a side to pasta, but also great for dipping into marinara, olive oil and parmesan or even a hearty soup. As we move into fall, I know this recipe will be on repeat during soup season.

From our kitchen to yours — enjoy!

Homestyle Breadsticks

Serves a Crowd

Dough:

1 T. yeast
2 c. lukewarm water
2 T. sugar
1 1/2 t. salt
1 T. oil
4 c. flour

Topping:

1/4 c. butter, melted
3 T. Parmesan cheese
2 t. parsley flakes, or fresh parsley chopped
1 t. garlic powder
1 t. Italian seasoning

Instructions:

In a large bowl, mix yeast, lukewarm water, sugar, salt, oil, and flour until a soft dough forms. Spread the dough evenly over a greased cookie sheet. Let it rise in a warm place for 20 to 30 minutes.

In a small bowl, stir together all topping ingredients. Pour mixture and spread evenly over the dough. Let rise for another 20 minutes.

Bake at 350°F for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden. Remove from oven and cut into sticks while still warm. Serve immediately or reheat before serving.