There’s something about those warm, buttery, soft Olive Garden breadsticks that makes them so irresistible. Whether you’re dining out or craving a comforting homemade treat, you can recreate the magic of these iconic breadsticks right in your own kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy fresh, warm breadsticks that are just as delicious as the ones you get at the restaurant. This copycat recipe captures all the fluffy goodness and garlic-infused flavor that makes Olive Garden breadsticks a favorite.

The best part is that these breadsticks are surprisingly easy to make. The dough requires just a little patience, but once you shape and bake them, you’ll be rewarded with a perfect batch of golden, soft breadsticks that melt in your mouth. Whether you serve them alongside pasta, salad, or even as a snack, these breadsticks will take any meal to the next level. So, grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the magic of Olive Garden at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Olive Garden-inspired breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and full of flavor, making them the perfect addition to any meal. The dough is simple to prepare, and once baked, the breadsticks are golden on the outside and soft and pillowy on the inside. The garlic butter topping adds an irresistible flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. Best of all, they’re customizable—serve them warm and fresh or store them for later to enjoy with soups, salads, or pastas. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family dinner, having a cozy night in, or preparing a homemade feast.

Ingredients

For the Breadsticks:

Warm water (110°F/45°C)
Active dry yeast
Granulated sugar
All-purpose flour
Unsalted butter (softened)
Salt

For the Topping:

Unsalted butter (melted)
Garlic powder
Salt

Variations

Cheesy Breadsticks: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese over the breadsticks before baking for a cheesy twist on this classic recipe.
Herb Breadsticks: Add some dried herbs, such as oregano or rosemary, to the dough for a herby flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Topping: Combine garlic powder, melted butter, and grated Parmesan cheese for a garlicky and cheesy topping.
Stuffed Breadsticks: Roll some cheese, pepperoni, or your favorite fillings into the dough before shaping it into breadsticks for a fun variation.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and granulated sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy and bubbly. This process activates the yeast, ensuring the dough will rise properly.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl or the bowl of a stand mixer, combine the flour, softened butter, and salt. Add the yeast mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix the dough by hand or with a dough hook on medium speed until smooth and elastic, about 8-10 minutes.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a kitchen towel. Place the bowl in a warm area and let the dough rise for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air. Divide the dough into 12-14 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-7 inch long rope and place them on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet. Make sure to leave some space between each breadstick for them to expand as they rise.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the shaped breadsticks with a kitchen towel and let them rise for an additional 20-30 minutes, until they are puffy and have slightly increased in size.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

While the dough is rising, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures the breadsticks bake evenly and become golden brown.

Step 7: Bake the Breadsticks

Once the breadsticks have risen, bake them in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 8: Prepare the Topping

While the breadsticks are baking, melt the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter and mix in the garlic powder and salt. Stir well until the garlic is evenly distributed in the butter.

Step 9: Finish and Serve

Once the breadsticks are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter topping. Serve the breadsticks warm and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

Proper Yeast Activation: Be sure the water temperature is around 110°F (45°C) to properly activate the yeast. Water that’s too hot can kill the yeast, while water that’s too cold will prevent activation.
Don’t Overwork the Dough: When kneading the dough, avoid overworking it, as this can result in dense breadsticks. Knead just enough to form a smooth and elastic dough.
Space Between Breadsticks: When placing the breadsticks on the baking sheet, make sure there’s enough space between them so they can expand as they bake.
Golden Brown Perfection: Keep an eye on the breadsticks as they bake. You want them to be golden brown, but be careful not to let them get too dark or burn.

How to Serve

These Olive Garden-inspired breadsticks are best served fresh and warm, right out of the oven. They make an excellent side dish to accompany pasta, salad, soup, or a hearty main course. You can even serve them as a delicious appetizer with marinara sauce for dipping. For a truly indulgent experience, pair them with a nice bowl of homemade pasta or a creamy soup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. Reheat them in the oven for a few minutes to restore their soft, warm texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the baked breadsticks for up to 3 months. To freeze, allow the breadsticks to cool completely before wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer bag. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat in the oven.

Reheating

To reheat, simply place the breadsticks in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the texture will be less crispy.

FAQs

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?

Yes, you can use active dry yeast. Just make sure to activate it in warm water before adding it to the dough.

2. Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough in advance and refrigerate it overnight. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.

3. Can I use bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Bread flour can be used for a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works perfectly for these breadsticks.

4. How do I know when the breadsticks are done?

The breadsticks should be golden brown and sound hollow when tapped on the bottom. They should also have a soft, fluffy interior.

5. Can I use garlic salt instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can use garlic salt, but be sure to adjust the amount of regular salt in the recipe to avoid over-salting the dough.

6. Can I freeze the dough before baking?

Yes, you can freeze the shaped dough before the second rise. Let the dough thaw in the refrigerator overnight and allow it to rise before baking.

7. How do I get the breadsticks to be extra soft?

Be sure to knead the dough until it’s smooth and elastic. Also, don’t overbake the breadsticks—remove them from the oven when they’re golden brown for the softest texture.

8. Can I add cheese to the breadsticks?

Yes! You can sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese on top of the breadsticks before baking for a cheesy flavor.

9. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

While margarine can be substituted, butter gives these breadsticks their signature rich flavor and texture.

10. How can I make the breadsticks more flavorful?

Try adding extra garlic powder to the dough itself or sprinkling fresh herbs like oregano or thyme on top of the breadsticks before baking.

Conclusion

This Olive Garden Breadsticks recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves soft, buttery breadsticks with a hint of garlic flavor. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can recreate these iconic breadsticks in your own kitchen. Whether you’re enjoying them with a bowl of pasta or as a stand-alone treat, these homemade breadsticks are sure to become a favorite in your household. Give them a try, and prepare for everyone to ask for the recipe!