Cheese Sticks(Microwave)
Cream cheese and Parmesan-coated breadsticks with a spicy kick, rolled in a variety of flavorful seeds and spices, perfect for snacking or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a medium microwave-safe bowl, place cream cheese and butter. Heat on High 1 1/2 minutes. Stir until smooth.
- Into the cream cheese mixture, stir Parmesan cheese, Dijon mustard, and hot pepper sauce; mix well.
- With a knife, spread an equal amount of cheese mixture onto half of each breadstick.
- Place the poppy seed, chopped chives, sesame seed, and paprika on separate pieces of waxed paper.
- Lightly roll 4 breadsticks in each of the coatings.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier cheese mixture, consider using whipped cream cheese instead of regular. If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of hot pepper sauce. For a unique twist, you can substitute the Parmesan with grated cheddar or mozzarella. If you don't have breadsticks, make your own using pizza dough or use sliced baguette instead.
Serving Suggestions
These cheese sticks are perfect as a party snack or appetizer. Serve them alongside a dipping sauce, such as marinara or ranch, for added flavor. They pair beautifully with Lemon Bar Deluxe for a refreshing dessert after the savory bites. Consider adding a simple garden salad as a side for a complete meal.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, place the cheese sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, microwave for 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, being careful not to overheat as this can make the cheese mixture too soft. Enjoy them as a quick snack or appetizer.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheese Sticks(Microwave) contains roughly 79 calories, with 4g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (60% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these cheese sticks ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese mixture and spread it on the breadsticks in advance. Just store them in the refrigerator, covered, for up to a day. When you're ready to serve, roll them in the poppy seed and microwave them for the best texture.
What can I use instead of poppy seeds?
If you don't have poppy seeds, you can substitute them with sesame seeds or even crushed nuts for a different texture and flavor. Chopped chives or parsley can also add a fresh touch without the poppy seed crunch.
Are these cheese sticks suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as it contains no meat products. Just ensure that the breadsticks you use are also vegetarian-friendly. You could also explore American recipes that include similar flavor profiles to create variations.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).