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Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones with Spooky Marinara Dip

Cheesy Halloween Breadstick Bones

Soft, cheesy breadstick bones shaped for Halloween, paired with a rich, garlicky marinara dip. Perfect spooky appetizer for parties, combining savory cheese with flavorful herbs and a fun presentation.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 32 minutes
Course Appetizer, holiday
Cuisine Italian
Servings 12 people
Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 baking sheet lined with parchment paper
  • 1 small saucepan for marinara dip
  • 1 rolling surface lightly floured

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package refrigerated pizza dough or breadstick dough approximately 12 oz
  • 1 to 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 to 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons melted butter for brushing
  • Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for decoration
  • 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil
  • ½ teaspoon dried basil
  • Optional: fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  • On a lightly floured surface, unroll or stretch the dough into a rectangle.
  • Cut the dough into strips about ½ inch wide and 4 to 5 inches long.
  • Pinch both ends of each strip to make thicker tips and add small dough knobs near the ends to resemble knuckles.
  • Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and a little Parmesan over each strip, pressing gently to adhere.
  • Sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning evenly over the dough strips.
  • Place the prepared strips on the baking sheet, brush lightly with melted butter, and sprinkle with sesame or poppy seeds if desired.
  • Bake for 10 to 12 minutes until golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  • Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add marinara sauce and dried basil, simmer for 5 to 7 minutes until warmed and slightly thickened.
  • Keep the marinara dip warm and serve alongside the warm breadstick bones.

Notes

  • Use pizza dough for a chewier texture or breadstick dough for softness.
  • Mix mozzarella with Parmesan or add cheddar for sharper flavor.
  • Swap Italian seasoning with oregano, basil, or rosemary for variety.
  • Add red pepper flakes to marinara for a spicy kick.
  • Serve with other Halloween snacks like deviled eggs or mummy pigs in a blanket.