Step 1: Prepare the Dough

1. Activate the Yeast:

In a small bowl, dissolve 1 teaspoon of sugar in 3/4 cup warm water. Sprinkle 2 1/4 teaspoons of active dry yeast over the water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy. This indicates that the yeast is activated and ready to use.

2. Mix the Dough:

In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon salt. Make a well in the center of the flour mixture and pour in the yeast mixture along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Stir the ingredients together until a shaggy dough forms.

3. Knead the Dough:

Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface and knead it for about 5-7 minutes, or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, add a little more flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it’s easy to handle.

4. Let the Dough Rise:

Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free area for about 30-45 minutes, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 2: Shape the Breadsticks

1. Preheat the Oven:

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a baking sheet or line it with parchment paper.

2. Roll Out the Dough:

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air and transfer it to a floured surface. Roll the dough into a large rectangle, about 10×14 inches in size and about 1/4 inch thick.

3. Cut the Dough:

Using a pizza cutter or a sharp knife, slice the dough into 12-14 even strips. Each strip should be about 1 inch wide and 10 inches long. These strips will become your breadsticks.

Step 3: Add the Toppings

1. Brush with Butter:

In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon melted butter and 2 cloves of minced garlic (or 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder). Brush the garlic butter mixture generously over the dough strips.

2. Add the Cheese:

Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough strips, making sure each breadstick gets a good amount of cheese. Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top of the mozzarella for extra flavor.

3. Season with Herbs:

Sprinkle the dough strips with 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon dried basil, and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper for added flavor. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat.

Step 4: Bake the Breadsticks

1. Arrange on the Baking Sheet:

Carefully transfer each dough strip onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them slightly apart so they don’t stick together while baking.

2. Bake Until Golden:

Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are golden brown around the edges and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

3. Cool Slightly:

Once the breadsticks are done baking, remove them from the oven and let them cool on the baking sheet for about 5 minutes before serving.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the cheesy breadsticks to a serving platter and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauces, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter.