Twisted Pizza Breadsticks with Refrigerated Dough

Name: Twisted Pizza Breadsticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough (about 13–16 oz); ½ cup pizza sauce; 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 20 –24 slices pepperoni (chopped); 1 tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ¼ teaspoon garlic powder; 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

These twisted pizza breadsticks turn one tube of refrigerated pizza dough into a budget-friendly, family-friendly side dish that feels special without extra work 👇👇

Layered with pizza sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, they bake up golden on the outside and soft in the center in just minutes. Whether you're planning an easy weeknight dinner, pizza night, or a quick after-school snack, this simple recipe always disappears fast.

Twisted pizza breadsticks stacked on top of eachother on a white plate with a bowl of pizza sauce.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy - Uses store-bought refrigerated pizza dough to save time.
Budget friendly - One tube of dough stretches into 12-13 breadsticks.
Perfect for pizza night - A simple side that makes dinner feel complete.
Kid approved - Twisting the dough makes them fun and hands-on.
Great for dipping - Extra marinara sauce makes these irresistible.
Freezer friendly - Easy to prep ahead for busy weeks.

When to Make These Pizza Breadsticks

These cheesy pizza twists fit into real-life dinner situations, not just special occasions.

• Easy weeknight dinner side - Serve with baked pasta, soup, or a big green salad.
• Pizza night upgrade - Stretch one homemade pizza into a full meal.
• After-school snack - Warm, cheesy, and quick to reheat.
• Game day appetizer - Slice smaller for a party tray.
• Pantry dinner helper - Made with simple ingredients most families already keep on hand.

This is one of those easy weeknight recipes that helps stretch ingredients while still feeling fun.

Andi is holding a plate of twisted pizza dough breadsticks with a side bowl of marinara sauce.

Note From Andi

I love using Pillsbury refrigerated pizza dough for this because it saves time and still bakes up beautifully golden and soft.

We've made these for Friday pizza night, last-minute appetizers when friends stop by, and as a quick side for pasta dinners. Twisting them makes them feel just a little more special than regular breadsticks, and they pull apart perfectly when warm. If you love this easy side dish recipe, then you'll have to try my garlic parmesan knots next.

Ingredients to make the recipe on counter including tube of pizza crust, bowl of shredded mozzarella, pizza sauce, herbs and pepperoni slices.

Recipe Ingredients 👇👇

For the Breadsticks

• 1 tube refrigerated pizza dough - I use Pillsbury, but any store-bought dough works.
• ½ cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce - Keep the layer thin so it seals well.
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese - Freshly shredded melts best.
• 20-24 slices pepperoni, chopped - Adds bold flavor without overpowering.

For the Topping

• 1 tablespoon olive oil - Brushed on top for golden edges.
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried basil
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons grated parmesan cheese

Watch How to Make It

Step-by-Step Instructions 👇👇

The pizza dough is unrolled, shaped into a rectangle, and cut in half lengthwise. One half of the rectangle is topped with pizza sauce.

STEP 1: Prep the Dough

Preheat oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Unroll the refrigerated pizza dough onto a lightly floured cutting board and gently shape into a rectangle.

The pizza dough is topped with sauce, cheese, and pepperoni. Then a plain piece of dough is laid over the top, and then sliced into smaller strips with a pizza cutter.

STEP 2: Add the Filling

Spread ½ cup pizza sauce over half of the dough. Sprinkle 1½ cups shredded mozzarella evenly over the sauce, then layer chopped pepperoni on top.

The breadstick edges are pressed together with a fork and then twisted.

STEP 3: Fold, Slice, and Twist

Fold the plain half of the dough over the filled side. Press edges gently to seal. Use a pizza cutter to slice into 1-inch strips. Twist each strip twice and place on the prepared baking sheet.

STEP 4: Season and Bake

Brush tops with 1 Tbsp olive oil. Sprinkle oregano, basil, garlic powder, and parmesan cheese evenly over each breadstick. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown and bubbly.

Tip: Don't overfill. A thinner layer of sauce and cheese seals better and keeps the twists cleaner.

Fingers dipping the breadstick in pizza sauce with cheese and parsley in background.

Recipe Tips

Don't overfill. Too much cheese or sauce will squeeze out when twisting.
Roll evenly. If the dough is too thin, the breadsticks may dry out.
Use a pizza cutter. It makes clean, even strips.
Gently press the edges together before twisting. This helps seal the filling inside.
Bake on the same oven rack if using two pans for even browning.
For extra crisp edges, bake until the bottoms are lightly golden.

If you want more simple weeknight dinners with classic pizza flavors, homemade pizza pockets are made with just four ingredients and bake up golden and crisp with gooey melted cheese inside, making them perfect for busy nights or freezer meals.

Ingredient Swaps

Make extra cheesy pizza breadsticks by skipping the pepperoni and adding extra mozzarella.
Try chopped ham or salami instead of pepperoni.
Add finely diced bell peppers or pineapple (keep pieces small).
Turn these into stuffed breadsticks by adding a light layer of ricotta inside.
Sprinkle Everything Bagel seasoning on top for a twist.
Brush with garlic butter instead of olive oil for a richer flavor.

How Much Do These Cost to Make?

One of the reasons I love this recipe is how affordable it is compared to ordering breadsticks.

Approximate breakdown (varies by store):

• Pizza dough - about $3
• Mozzarella - about $2
• Pepperoni - about $2
• Sauce + seasoning - about $1

That's roughly $7-$8 total for 12-13 breadsticks, making this a budget-friendly addition to pasta night or homemade pizza.

If you're stretching your grocery budget, this is an easy way to make dinner feel special without adding another expensive main dish.

Make Ahead and Air Fryer Options

If you're planning ahead for busy weeknights, these pizza twists are easy to prep in advance.

Make ahead: Assemble and twist the breadsticks, then refrigerate on a baking sheet for up to 4 hours before baking.
Freeze before baking: Place twisted breadsticks on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Bake from frozen at 400°F, adding 3-5 extra minutes.
Air fryer option: Cook at 350°F for 6-8 minutes depending on thickness. This works especially well for reheating leftovers and keeps the edges crisp.

An up-close of a twisted pizza dough breadstick.

Serving Ideas

Serve warm with extra marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
Pair with one pot spaghetti or baked mac and cheese for a complete dinner.
Add a spinach salad for an easy weeknight meal.
Serve alongside vegetable soup or my classic tomato soup for a cozy combo.
Include on a game day appetizer tray with dips and sliders.

Storage & Reheating

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze fully baked breadsticks for up to 2 months.
Reheat: Warm in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes. Air fry at 350°F for 3-4 minutes. Microwave for 20-30 seconds for a softer texture.

Common Mistakes That Make Breadsticks Soggy

A few small adjustments make a big difference in texture. Try avoiding these mistakes:

• Adding too much sauce
• Overfilling with cheese
• Rolling the dough too thin
• Not preheating the oven fully

FAQs

Can I use homemade dough instead of store-bought?

Yes. If you have a favorite pizza dough recipe, roll it into a rectangle and follow the same steps.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the twisted breadsticks and refrigerate (covered) for up to 4 hours before baking.

Can I freeze them before baking?

Yes. Freeze the twisted, unbaked breadsticks on a baking sheet. Once solid, transfer to a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.

Can I make these in the air fryer?

Yes. Cook smaller batches at 375°F for 6-8 minutes, checking frequently until golden brown.

Why is my cheese leaking out?

Too much filling or not sealing the edges firmly can cause leaks. Press the edges together gently before twisting, and avoid overfilling.

Are these regular breadsticks or stuffed breadsticks?

They're closer to stuffed breadsticks - a cross between pizza and classic breadsticks, with sauce and cheese baked inside.

Can I make these without pepperoni?

Absolutely. Skip the meat or substitute ham or cooked sausage.

More Pizza Recipes

Pizza chicken turns chicken breasts into an easy, oven-baked dinner layered with sauce and mozzarella.
For fun lunches or something a little different, pizza Lunchables are a homemade, budget-friendly version of the store-bought favorite using fresh ingredients, which makes them great for after-school snacks or quick lunches.
Bacon sausage breakfast pizza is a hearty way to use up leftover breakfast meat and works beautifully for breakfast-for-dinner, especially on relaxed weekends.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

When to Make These Pizza Breadsticks

Note From Andi