These Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks are the perfect low-carb alternative to traditional breadsticks. With a cauliflower base and plenty of mozzarella cheese, they’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with savory flavors. Whether you’re craving a healthy snack, a side dish, or a gluten-free option for pizza night, these breadsticks will hit the spot!
Servings & Timing
Yield: 12 breadsticks
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 45 minutes
Ingredients List
- 4 cups cauliflower rice (about 1 large head of cauliflower)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups mozzarella cheese (I used a Tex-Mex blend)
- 3 teaspoons oregano
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese (for topping, optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cauliflower
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or grease it lightly.
Rice the cauliflower by chopping it into florets and pulsing in a food processor until it forms small pieces resembling rice. Alternatively, you can use pre-riced cauliflower from the store.
Step 2: Cook the Cauliflower
In a large skillet, sauté the riced cauliflower over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until softened and all excess moisture has evaporated. Transfer to a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth and squeeze out any remaining moisture.
Removing moisture ensures your breadsticks will be firm and not soggy.
Step 3: Prepare the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs. Add the cooked cauliflower rice, 2 cups mozzarella cheese, oregano, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
The mixture should be thick and sticky but not too wet.
Step 4: Shape and Bake
Transfer the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet and use a spatula to spread it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the center is set.
Step 5: Add the Topping
Remove from the oven, sprinkle the top with 1 cup of mozzarella cheese (or more if you prefer extra cheese), and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 5–7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Slice and Serve
Allow the breadsticks to cool for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. Serve warm as an appetizer, snack, or side dish with marinara sauce for dipping.
Additional Notes
- For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the dough.
- These breadsticks can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- To make them dairy-free, substitute the mozzarella cheese with a plant-based cheese of your choice.
Dietary Info (Approximate per serving, based on 12 breadsticks)
- Calories: 130
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
Keto, gluten-free, and low-carb.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Step 1: Preheat oven and prepare baking sheet
Step 2: Rice and cook cauliflower
Step 3: Combine cauliflower with eggs, cheese, and seasonings
Step 4: Shape dough and bake
Step 5: Top with cheese and bake until melted
Step 6: Slice and serve
Ingredient Details & Substitutions
Cauliflower
- Fresh cauliflower works best, but frozen cauliflower rice can be used.
- Be sure to drain and dry it well after cooking to avoid sogginess.
Mozzarella Cheese
- Mozzarella gives a mild, creamy flavor, but you can use other cheeses like cheddar or Parmesan for a different taste.
Eggs
- Eggs help bind the cauliflower together, giving the breadsticks their structure. You could try using flax eggs for a vegan version.
Oregano and Garlic
- Fresh garlic adds the most flavor, but garlic powder works too.
- You can swap oregano for basil or Italian seasoning for a different flavor profile.
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Add Veggies
- Add finely chopped spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the dough for extra flavor and nutrition.
Spicy Version
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top or mix them into the dough for a spicy kick.
Garlic Parmesan Version
- Top the breadsticks with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and extra garlic before baking.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or a creamy dip.
- Pair with a side salad or a bowl of soup for a light meal.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Refrigerator
- Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Freezer
- Freeze leftover breadsticks for up to 1 month. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator and warm in the oven until crispy again.
FAQs
Q: Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough, bake the breadsticks, and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use cauliflower rice from the store?
A: Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower rice. Just be sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before using.
Q: Can I make these breadsticks without cheese?
A: The cheese helps bind the breadsticks together, but you can try a dairy-free version with vegan cheese or without cheese, though the texture may change slightly.
Optional Personal Story
These Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks have quickly become a favorite in our household. I love how versatile they are—whether as a low-carb snack, a savory side, or a healthier alternative to traditional breadsticks. Plus, they’re so easy to make and always disappear quickly!
Call-to-Action
Tried these Cheesy Cauliflower Breadsticks?
Save the recipe, share it with a fellow cauliflower lover, and let me know how you enjoyed them!
