Never-Fail Breads

Mozzarella Breadsticks

Makes 8

This soft, cheese-filled bread might just surpass the main dish of any meal it’s served with.

1 (16-ounce) bag deli pizza dough, rested according to package directions
3 low-moisture mozzarella cheese sticks, quartered lengthwise and halved crosswise
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon kosher salt

1. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. On a lightly floured surface, roll pizza dough to a 16x8-inch rectangle. Cut dough into 8 (8x2-inch) strips. Place 3 cheese pieces in center of each strip. Wrap dough around cheese, pinching seam to seal. Place sticks, seam side down, on prepared pan. Cover and let rise in a warm, draft-free place (75°) until puffed, about 30 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 400°.

4. Bake until bread is puffed and golden brown, about 15 minutes.

5. In a small bowl, whisk together melted butter, parsley, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt; brush onto hot bread. Let stand for 10 minutes; serve warm.

Dill Cheese Straws

Makes about 32

“Cheese straws are one of my favorite things to take to potlucks. Everyone loves them.”—Paula

2 cups all-purpose flour
1½ cups shredded white Cheddar cheese
¼ cup minced fresh dill
1½ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon ground red pepper
2 large eggs
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled

Preheat oven