Bones Breadsticks with Garlic Butter and “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe

If you’re a fan of warm, soft breadsticks with that perfect garlicky kick and a fun twist on the dipping sauce, then you’re going to absolutely love this Bones Breadsticks with Garlic Butter and “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe. These breadsticks aren’t just delicious—they’re a total crowd-pleaser, easy to make, and come with a quirky bone-shaped design that’s super fun to create. Let me walk you through why these are one of my go-to recipes when friends come over or when I just want a cozy snack that feels a little special.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

I’ve found that simple pantry staples come together beautifully in this recipe—each ingredient plays a crucial role. For example, the flour you choose will affect the dough’s texture, and the garlic butter seasoning mix really brings out the best in these breadsticks.

• Warm water: Aim for about 110°F—warm enough to activate the yeast but not so hot it kills it.
• White sugar: A small touch helps feed the yeast and kickstarts the rise.
• Instant yeast: I love using this because it’s fast and reliable; you don’t even have to proof it separately if you’re in a hurry.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning and balancing the bread flavor.
• All-purpose flour: You’ll add this gradually to get that perfect soft but not sticky dough.
• Olive or vegetable oil: Used after kneading to keep the dough from drying out while it rises.
• Butter: Softened, for that luscious garlic butter topping.
• Garlic salt, garlic powder, and onion powder: These seasonings create that amazing layered garlic flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: I usually go for the pre-grated kind; it melts perfectly in the butter mix.
• Pizza sauce or marinara sauce: Your “blood” dipping sauce to dip and dunk your breadsticks in!

Variations

I love making this Bones Breadsticks with Garlic Butter and “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe my own by experimenting with extra flavors or adapting it for different occasions. Feel free to customize and make it your own!

• Cheese-Stuffed Variation: I tried stuffing little mozzarella pieces inside the dough before shaping the bones, and it was a total hit with my kids.
• Herb-Infused Butter: Adding chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or basil to the garlic butter adds a fresh twist that elevates the flavor.
• Spicy Marinara: For a bit of heat, mix a pinch of red pepper flakes into your marinara “blood” sauce—my crowd loves the kick.
• Sweet Version: Instead of garlic butter, brush on melted butter with cinnamon sugar for a sweet treat that’s perfect as a dessert twist.

How to Make Bones Breadsticks with Garlic Butter and “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Proof Your Yeast for Best Rise

Start by adding your white sugar to the mixing bowl, then pour in the warm water and sprinkle the instant yeast on top. I like to give it a gentle stir to help it mix in. Let this sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy and bubbly—that’s the sign your yeast is active and ready to work its magic. When I first made these, I skipped this step and the dough didn’t rise well, so trust me, it’s worth the wait.

Step 2: Mix and Knead the Dough to Perfection

Once your yeast is foaming, add the salt and start with 2 cups of flour. Mix on low-medium speed; the dough will be sticky and wet at this point, which is exactly what you want. Slowly add more flour, about a cup at a time, until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and only sticks slightly to your fingers. The dough should feel soft and smooth but not overly sticky. I discovered this handy tip of feeling the dough with your fingers instead of relying solely on measurements, because every flour brand behaves a bit differently.

Step 3: Let It Rise in a Warm Spot

After kneading for a few minutes and the dough looks soft and elastic, drizzle the oil over the dough and roll it around to coat. Cover the bowl with a clean kitchen towel and set it somewhere warm—next to the oven while it preheats works great—to let it double in size. This usually takes about an hour, and it’s so rewarding to watch it puff up. I remember the first time I left it in a cold spot and it barely rose, so temperature matters for sure.

Step 4: Shape the Bones Breadsticks with a Twist

Once doubled, turn your dough out onto a floured surface and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a snake shape, leaving a round “ball” at each end. Then, push your finger gently into each ball to create the classic bone look. This step is where the fun really kicks in and kids especially love helping here! Place the shaped breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet and cover them for a second rise until doubled again—about 30 to 45 minutes.

Step 5: Bake and Brush with Garlic Butter

Bake these little bones at 425° F for 8 to 10 minutes until the tops are just golden. Don’t overbake them or they’ll lose that soft, tender inside we’re aiming for. While they bake, mix your softened butter with garlic salt, garlic powder, Parmesan, and onion powder. As soon as the breadsticks come out, brush this heavenly garlic butter all over them. It seals in moisture and amps up the flavor—trust me, it’s what makes these breadsticks irresistible.

Step 6: Serve with “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce

Serve your bones warm alongside a bowl of thick marinara or pizza sauce. The tangy “blood” sauce contrasts perfectly with the buttery, garlicky breadsticks, making every bite a delight. It’s a simple touch that turns this into a party favorite every time.

How to Serve Bones Breadsticks with Garlic Butter and “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe

Garnishes

I usually sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan and some fresh chopped parsley on top right after brushing the garlic butter—it adds a pop of color and fresh flavor. Sometimes, I even throw on a bit of crushed red pepper flakes if we’re craving a little heat.

Side Dishes

These breadsticks pair amazingly with a crisp Caesar salad or a hearty bowl of soup—tomato basil is especially perfect. For a fun night in, I serve them alongside a big bowl of spaghetti or my go-to cheesy lasagna.

Creative Ways to Present

For Halloween or themed dinners, I like to serve the bones breadsticks on a dark slate platter with the “blood” marinara in a red bowl right in the center. Add some plastic skeleton hands or themed napkins and you have yourself a festive, fun presentation that guests love and always remember.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I wrap leftover breadsticks tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container, then keep them on the counter for up to two days. They stay soft when you reheat them properly, and the garlic butter flavor only gets better.

Freezing

I’ve frozen these shaped breadsticks before baking by placing them on a tray in the freezer, then transferring to a sealed bag once firm. When I want fresh breadsticks, I let them thaw, rise a little more, then bake as usual. It’s a great time saver for busy days!

Reheating

To get that fresh-baked warmth back, I pop leftover breadsticks in a 350°F oven for about 5-7 minutes. If you have extra garlic butter, brushing a little on before reheating makes them taste freshly made.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Bones Breadsticks with Garlic Butter and “Blood” Marinara Dipping Sauce Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen. It’s a little nostalgic, a little quirky, and a whole lot delicious. I love how simple ingredients come together to create something so memorable and fun—plus, it’s an absolute hit with my family and friends every single time. If you want to wow your next gathering or just treat yourself to a cozy homemade snack, give this recipe a try. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.

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