Olive Garden Breadsticks are soft, warm, and buttery little sticks of joy that everyone seems to love. They have that perfect fluffy inside with a slight crispness on the outside, all generously brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with a touch of salt. These breadsticks are classic comfort food that can brighten any meal or snack time.
I have to admit, I’m usually tempted to eat a whole batch by myself whenever I make these. The combination of garlic, butter, and a little sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top makes them impossible to resist. I find that making the dough just the right softness and brushing on plenty of buttery garlic right out of the oven gives them that irresistible homemade feel.
My favorite way to enjoy these breadsticks is alongside a big bowl of marinara sauce or with a fresh salad for a quick dinner. They’re perfect for sharing at family dinners, game nights, or just when you want a little delicious comfort on the side. Whenever I serve these breadsticks, I always get smiles all around the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Active Dry Yeast: This is the backbone of your breadsticks, giving them that soft, airy texture. If you have instant yeast, it works too—just add it directly to the dry ingredients without proofing.
All-Purpose Flour: It gives the dough a nice structure, but you can try bread flour for a chewier texture or whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste—just know it might change the softness slightly.
Butter: Butter adds richness both in the dough and as a flavorful brush-on finish. For a dairy-free option, use olive oil instead in the dough and for brushing. It’s tasty, but less buttery.
Garlic Powder & Parsley: These bring the classic Olive Garden flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used, but add it after baking to avoid burning. Fresh parsley works well, too, for a lively green touch.
How Can I Get My Breadsticks Soft and Fluffy Like Olive Garden’s?
The secret is letting the dough rise properly and handling it gently:
- Proof the yeast: Make sure your water is warm, not hot, to activate yeast fully without killing it. Wait for a bubbly foam—that shows it’s alive!
- Knead well but don’t overdo it: Knead until smooth and elastic to develop gluten, which traps air and makes the texture soft.
- Let it rise twice: The first rise lets the dough double in size; the second after shaping helps the breadsticks stay tender and fluffy.
- Don’t skip the warm spot: Keep dough covered and warm during rising for best results. I usually preheat the oven and turn it off, then set the bowl inside for a cozy environment.
- Brush with butter immediately: Right after baking, brushing with the garlic butter locks in moisture and keeps the tops soft, not dry or crusty.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – for mixing and rising the dough in one place.
- Whisk or spoon – to dissolve yeast and sugar easily in warm water.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts, which is key in baking.
- Rolling pin (optional) – helps shape the dough evenly, but you can roll by hand too.
- Baking sheet – for placing the breadsticks to bake evenly in the oven.
- Parchment paper – to stop breadsticks from sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Pastry brush – for brushing melted garlic butter on fresh breadsticks to get that perfect flavor.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Mix in shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese before baking for a cheesy twist.
- Add dried oregano or Italian seasoning to the garlic butter for extra herb flavor.
- Sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a little spicy kick.
- Brush with browned butter instead of plain melted butter for a richer, nutty flavor.
How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus extra for dusting
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
For The Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt, for sprinkling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, 1 hour for the first rise, 15 to 20 minutes for the second rise, and about 12 to 15 minutes for baking. Altogether, plan on roughly 1 hour and 40 minutes to enjoy soft, warm breadsticks fresh from your oven!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the warm water and sugar until the sugar dissolves. Sprinkle the yeast on top and let it sit for about 5 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the melted butter and the yeast mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. Then transfer it onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. You can also use a stand mixer with a dough hook to do this faster.
3. First Rise:
Put the dough ball in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm spot. Let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the dough to release the air. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth 6-7 inch long breadstick. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each.
5. Second Rise:
Cover the breadsticks loosely with a towel and let them rise for 15 to 20 minutes more. This makes them nice and fluffy.
6. Bake:
Bake the breadsticks on the middle rack in the preheated oven for 12 to 15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
7. Add Garlic Butter:
While the breadsticks bake, mix the melted butter with garlic powder and dried parsley. When the breadsticks come out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with this garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle lightly with salt.
8. Serve Warm:
Enjoy these soft, buttery breadsticks warm, perfect with marinara sauce for dipping or alongside your favorite meal!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast can be used as a substitute and doesn’t require proofing. Just mix it directly into the dry ingredients and proceed with the recipe as usual.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm them in the oven at 300°F for about 5 minutes.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. Just take it out, bring to room temperature, shape, let rise again, and bake as instructed.
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Garlic Powder?
If you don’t have garlic powder, you can use finely minced fresh garlic brushed on after baking to avoid burning, or substitute with garlic salt but reduce any extra salt added.
