Olive Garden Breadsticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Olive Garden breadsticks are a fan favorite for good reason. These fluffy, soft breadsticks are perfectly seasoned with garlic butter and are always served warm, making them the perfect side dish for any meal. Whether you’re enjoying a hearty pasta dinner or just having them as a snack, these breadsticks bring comfort and flavor. The best part? Now you can make them at home and enjoy their delicious, melt-in-your-mouth goodness whenever you want.

Ingredients

• 1 cup warm water (110°F)

• 2 tablespoons sugar

• 1 packet active dry yeast

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine warm water and sugar. Sprinkle yeast over the top and stir gently. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until the yeast becomes frothy.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture and olive oil to the bowl, then stir until a dough forms.

3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.

4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

5. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

6. Punch the dough down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin breadstick shape.

7. Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving space between each one. Let them rise for another 10 minutes.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.

9. While the breadsticks are baking, prepare the garlic butter. In a small bowl, mix melted butter with garlic powder.

10. Once the breadsticks are done, remove them from the oven and immediately brush them with the garlic butter. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12 breadsticks

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Rising Time: 1 hour + 10 minutes

• Baking Time: 10-12 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 35 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Breadsticks: After baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the breadsticks while they are still hot.

• Herbed Breadsticks: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the dough for added flavor.

• Garlic Parmesan: Mix grated Parmesan cheese with the garlic butter before brushing it onto the breadsticks for a cheesy, savory touch.

• Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a healthier twist.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, place them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the breadsticks in aluminum foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for 15-20 seconds if you’re in a hurry.

FAQs

How do I get my breadsticks soft like Olive Garden’s?

The key to soft breadsticks is to let the dough rise properly and to avoid over-baking them. Keep an eye on the breadsticks while baking, and remove them when they’re golden brown, not too dark.

Can I use a stand mixer to make this dough?

Yes, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook to knead the dough. Mix the ingredients in the bowl of the mixer, then knead the dough on low speed for 5-7 minutes until smooth.

Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the dough up to the point of rising, then cover it and refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature and rise for an additional 10 minutes before shaping and baking.

Can I freeze the breadsticks?

Yes, you can freeze the baked breadsticks for up to 3 months. Allow them to cool completely, then wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer bag.

How can I make these breadsticks more garlicky?

If you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, add more garlic powder to the dough or increase the amount of garlic in the butter mixture.

How do I know if the yeast is active?

The yeast should bubble up and foam after a few minutes in warm water with sugar. If it doesn’t foam, the yeast may be expired, and you should use a new packet.

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

Yes, you can use bread flour for a slightly chewier texture. Just be aware that you might need to adjust the amount of water depending on the type of flour you use.

What temperature should the water be when activating yeast?

The water should be around 110°F (43°C) – warm to the touch but not hot. If it’s too hot, it can kill the yeast.

Can I use garlic salt instead of garlic powder?

Yes, you can substitute garlic salt for garlic powder, but you may need to reduce the amount of additional salt in the recipe to avoid making the breadsticks too salty.

What if I don’t have a stand mixer to knead the dough?

No problem! You can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface for about 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic.

Conclusion

Making Olive Garden breadsticks at home is a simple way to enjoy this beloved restaurant treat in the comfort of your kitchen. With a soft, pillowy texture and a rich, garlicky butter coating, these breadsticks are sure to be a hit with family and friends. Whether you’re serving them with pasta, soup, or just on their own, they’re a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy the satisfaction of freshly baked breadsticks anytime!