Rachael Ray's Easy Cheesy Sticks Recipe Revealed

Rachael Ray is renowned for her quick and delicious recipes, perfect for home cooks and busy individuals alike. Among her repertoire, the Easy Cheesy Sticks stand out as a crowd-pleaser. This simple yet irresistible snack is ideal for game nights, parties, or just a cozy movie night at home. Here, we'll reveal how you can whip up these deliciously cheesy sticks in your own kitchen, following Rachael Ray's steps.

Ingredients for Cheesy Sticks

• 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• ¹⁄₄ cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chili flakes for a bit of heat

Preparation Steps

Prepping the Puff Pastry

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the puff pastry into a rectangle about ¹⁄₈ inch thick.
3. Transfer the pastry onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

Making the Cheese Mixture

1. In a medium bowl, mix the mozzarella, parmesan, mayonnaise, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Combine well.

Assembling the Cheesy Sticks

1. Spread the cheese mixture evenly over the puff pastry, leaving a small border around the edges.
2. Fold the edges slightly over the cheese mixture to keep it in place.
3. Using a sharp knife, cut the pastry into 1-inch wide strips, but do not cut all the way through; leave the top connected.

Baking

1. Brush the top with melted butter and sprinkle with Italian seasoning and chili flakes if using.
2. Bake for about 12-15 minutes or until the puff pastry is golden brown and the cheese has melted and is slightly bubbly.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cheesy Sticks warm, perhaps with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or alongside a salad for a more substantial meal. The flexibility of this dish makes it an excellent appetizer or a delightful side.

💡 Note: Make sure the puff pastry is properly thawed to avoid tearing when rolling out. If it's too cold, let it sit at room temperature for 30-40 minutes before use.

🌶️ Note: For a spicier version, add extra chili flakes or even some cayenne pepper into the cheese mixture.

Creating Rachael Ray's Easy Cheesy Sticks at home is not only fun but also a great way to enjoy a tasty and satisfying snack or appetizer. Whether you're hosting a gathering or just craving something cheesy, this recipe is sure to delight everyone. The simple ingredients combined with the ease of preparation make it a go-to for any occasion. Enjoy the blend of savory cheeses with the flaky texture of puff pastry, and let this dish become your next favorite in your recipe collection.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

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Yes, while mozzarella and parmesan provide the classic flavor, feel free to experiment with cheddar, gouda, or even blue cheese for a different taste profile.

How can I make these Cheesy Sticks ahead of time?

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Prepare the recipe up to the point where you would bake them. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. Bake when ready, possibly adding a couple of extra minutes to the baking time to account for the colder dough.

Are these Cheesy Sticks suitable for freezing?

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Absolutely! After assembling, flash freeze on the baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag or airtight container. Bake from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cook time.