If loving deep fried sourdough breadsticks is wrong, I don’t want to be right. Especially when they’re made from store-bought sourdough bread, covered with grated parmesan cheese, and dipped into a rich marinara sauce so good it deserves its own fan club.
One lazy afternoon, a loaf of bread and a little hot oil changed my entire snack game — and now, there’s no going back.
From Grocery Cart to Fryer: A Beautiful Mistake
I was roaming the bread aisle one day, a little too hungry for my own good, when a loaf of sourdough practically jumped into my cart. Originally, I thought I’d toast it for breakfast or make sandwiches. But fate had other plans.
A few days later, staring at the slightly hardening loaf on my counter, an idea struck: What if I deep fried it? I mean, everything tastes better fried, right? I sliced the bread into thick, hearty sticks, and the moment they hit the hot oil… it was a full-on love affair.
Golden Brown and Oh-So-Crispy
You know that moment when you hear a perfect sizzle? That was the soundtrack of my kitchen as the sourdough breadsticks fried to golden perfection.
With the sourdough’s tangy flavor intensifying under the heat. The outside was shatteringly crisp, while the inside stayed wonderfully soft — the kind of texture that keeps you coming back for “just one more.”
The Marinara Moment
Of course, breadsticks need a partner, and nothing pairs better than a rich, savory marinara sauce. This can be homemade or storebought. I warmed some up while the breadsticks drained, addeda few finishing touches like a little salt and more oregano, mix it well, and the second I dipped one sourdough breadstick in, I knew I’d made something special.
The sharp tomato flavor, seasoned with garlic and herbs, hugged the breadstick perfectly.
The crispy edges soaked up just enough sauce to stay crunchy but tasted like they were made for each other. Honestly, if I had closed my eyes, I could’ve sworn I was in a cozy little trattoria somewhere in Italy, not standing right in my kitchen.
Snack Time, Party Time, Anytime
What surprised me most was how ridiculously versatile these fried breadsticks turned out to be. I devoured the first batch all by myself (no regrets), but the second time, I served them at a game night with friends. Let’s just say they didn’t last long.
People dipped, dunked, and even double-dipped (with permission, of course). Someone even suggested stuffing them with cheese next time. (Spoiler alert: I definitely will.) Whether it’s a quick afternoon snack, a fun party appetizer, or a late-night treat, these deep fried sourdough breadsticks just work.
Store-Bought Sourdough Is the Secret Weapon
Honestly, I’m still marveling at how easy and affordable this indulgence is. Store-bought sourdough brings the tangy flavor and hearty texture without any of the extra work. No kneading, no rising, no worrying about wild yeast cultures. Just slice, fry, and enjoy.
If you’re anything like me, you might feel a tiny twinge of guilt using ready-made bread. Forget it. This is the kind of shortcut that feels smart, not lazy. It’s about taking something good and making it outrageously better — and sometimes that’s exactly the kind of kitchen magic we all need.
Make It Fancy (Or Don’t!)
If you want to elevate the whole experience (and impress your guests), you can sprinkle the hot sourdough breadsticks with more grated Parmesan, a pinch of flaky sea salt, or a dash of Italian herbs. Or you can keep it simple and classic, letting the sourdough and marinara sauce shine.
Either way, there’s something about tearing into a hot, crispy breadstick that just feels joyful. It’s rustic, unfussy, and incredibly satisfying — the kind of treat that doesn’t need a fancy presentation to be a hit.
Fry First, Thank Yourself Later
Deep fried sourdough breadsticks might not have been on my culinary bucket list, but after that first bite, they shot straight to the top. It’s a humble, heartwarming, wildly delicious snack that reminds me why I love playing around in the kitchen.
There’s something so pure about taking everyday ingredients — a loaf of bread, a little oil, some cheese, herbs, and some marinara — and turning them into something that feels like an occasion. If you’re looking for a way to bring a little extra joy to your table, trust me: this is it.
Here’s How To Make Them
Our step-by-step frying method will help you make this recipe with ease. Tag us on Instagram or Facebook so I can see your beautiful dish.
We would also appreciate it if you could give it a star rating below!
Deep Fried Sourdough Breadsticks Recipe
Equipment
Ingredients
- 8 Oz. Sourdough Bread; Cut into sticks
- ½ Tbsp. Parsley Flakes
- 1 Tbsp. Dried Oregano
- ½ Tbsp. Paprika
- 1 Tbsp. Garlic Powder
- 1 Egg
- ½ Cup Milk
- 4 Cups Oil; vegetable oil, peanut oil, or canola oil
- 1 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese; plus more if needed and fresh shaved (or grated) parmesan cheese for topping.
Instructions
- Heat the oil to 350℉.Cut the sourdough bread into sticks. In a large bowl, mix all the ingredients together – minus the parmesan cheese. Add the parmesan cheese in a separate bowl.
- Dip the sourdough breadsticks into the egg mixture, then coat them with the parmesan cheese.
- Carefully fry them until golden brown for about 2 minutes, flipping halfway. Repeat the process with the remaining parmesan cheese. Remove the breadsticks from the oil and place on a wire rack to drain.Place the fried sourdough breadsticks on a plate, topped with shaved or grated Parmesan cheese and serve with marinara sauce lightly seasoned if store-bought with salt and herbs to taste, cheese sauce, or seasoned olive oil.
Notes
Nutrition
More Appetizers & Game Day Dishes You’ll Enjoy
Fried Mozzarella Sticks
So simple, so easy, and so addictive!
Thank you, Steph!