Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

If you’ve ever dreamed of bringing the magic of the Olive Garden Breadsticks into your own kitchen, you’re in for a treat. These golden, buttery, soft breadsticks are irresistible with their signature fluffy interior and gentle garlic-salt finish—they have a way of vanishing from the breadbasket almost as soon as they hit the table. Baking a batch at home is not only simple, it’s seriously rewarding; every bite delivers cozy restaurant nostalgia, and they’re perfect for both everyday family dinners and special occasions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Olive Garden Breadsticks lies in their simplicity: every ingredient plays a key role, from creating their iconic softness to delivering that craveable, buttery flavor. Gather these basics and you’re halfway to your own mini basket of happiness.

• Warm water (1 1/2 cups, 110°F/45°C): Cozy, just-warm water helps activate the yeast for that all-important rise—check with your finger to make sure it’s not too hot!
• Active dry yeast (2 1/4 tsp): The powerhouse that brings the dough to life, ensuring those breadsticks turn out light and airy.
• Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): A touch of sweetness boosts the yeast’s action and adds a perfect subtle flavor to the dough.
• All-purpose flour (4 cups): The foundation for chewy, pillowy breadsticks; measure carefully for the best texture.
• Unsalted butter, softened (2 tbsp for dough, 1/4 cup melted for topping): Butter adds richness inside and that classic golden gloss on top—use unsalted to control the savoriness.
• Salt (1 tbsp for dough, 1/2 tsp for topping): Salt sharpens every bite of breadstick and balances all the flavors from bland to brilliant.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp for topping): A gentle dusting transforms the topping, evoking the Olive Garden Breadsticks aroma instantly.

How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by stirring your warm water, yeast, and sugar together in a small bowl. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes. It should transform into a bubbly, frothy concoction—a sure sign that your yeast is awake and ready to do its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In your largest mixing bowl (or the bowl of a trusty stand mixer), add the flour, softened butter, and salt. Pour in the frothy yeast mixture and knead, either by hand or with a dough hook. This step should take about 8-10 minutes, and you’ll know the dough is ready when it’s soft, stretchy, and not sticking to your fingers.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl and cover with a kitchen towel. Place it somewhere cozy and out of drafts—I like to use my microwave or oven (turned off, of course). Let it rise for about an hour, or until doubled in size and beautifully puffy.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

Gently punch down the dough to release excess air, then divide it into 12-14 equal pieces. Roll each bit into a rope around 6-7 inches long. Arrange the breadsticks on a parchment-lined or greased baking sheet, giving them a little room to grow.

Step 5: Second Rise

Drape a kitchen towel over your shaped dough ropes and let them rise again—this time for 20-30 minutes, just until they’re noticeably puffier and lighter.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

While the breadsticks are enjoying their second rise, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven at this point will help guarantee that golden, soft result.

Step 7: Bake the Breadsticks

Pop the breadsticks into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. You’ll know they’re done once the tops are a gorgeous shade of golden brown—begging to be brushed with buttery glory.

Step 8: Prepare the Topping

While your breadsticks bake, melt 1/4 cup unsalted butter and stir in the garlic powder and salt. Brush this garlicky, aromatic mixture generously over the warm breadsticks as soon as they come out of the oven for that signature Olive Garden Breadsticks finish.

How to Serve Olive Garden Breadsticks

Garnishes

There’s nothing quite like serving hot Olive Garden Breadsticks straight from the oven, but you can make them extra special with a dusting of Parmesan cheese, freshly chopped parsley, or even a hint of cracked black pepper for added flair. Those buttery tops are just waiting for your personal touch.

Side Dishes

Pair your freshly baked Olive Garden Breadsticks with a side of classic marinara or rich Alfredo sauce for dipping. They’re also perfect alongside a crisp Caesar salad, a hearty Italian soup, or any pasta dish to capture that full Italian restaurant experience at home.

Creative Ways to Present

For a true crowd-pleaser, stack your breadsticks artfully in a napkin-lined basket or an upright glass for a fun party twist. Try cutting them in half to make easy sliders with meatballs or delicious little sandwiches—these breadsticks adapt to any gathering, casual or fancy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftover Olive Garden Breadsticks, let them cool completely before storing in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature. They’ll stay fresh for up to two days, though chances are they’ll disappear sooner!

Freezing

You can freeze baked or unbaked breadsticks for later enjoyment. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to two months. When a breadstick craving strikes, simply thaw at room temperature and reheat to enjoy that just-baked taste.

Reheating

To revive your breadsticks’ magic, pop them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-7 minutes, or wrap loosely in a damp paper towel and microwave for about 20 seconds. If you’d like, brush with a little more garlic butter to amp up the flavor and aroma.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Absolutely! You can swap in the same amount of instant yeast; just mix it right in with the flour and skip the proofing step. The rise may happen a bit faster, so keep an eye on your dough.

How do I keep the breadsticks from drying out?

To keep Olive Garden Breadsticks ultra-soft, avoid overbaking and always store them in a sealed bag or container once cool. You can also brush with a little melted butter before storing to lock in moisture.

Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead and refrigerate it after kneading. Just let it come back to room temperature and finish the rising process before shaping and baking as usual.

Is there a way to make them gluten-free?

While traditional Olive Garden Breadsticks rely on all-purpose flour, you can experiment with a good-quality, cup-for-cup gluten-free flour blend. Results vary, but it’s worth a try if you’re baking for gluten-sensitive friends or family.

What’s the best way to get that golden-brown crust?

For the picture-perfect golden color, make sure your oven is fully preheated, and don’t skimp on brushing the hot breadsticks with the garlicky butter as soon they come out—the fats help the crust shine and taste amazing.

Final Thoughts

There’s just something magical about homemade Olive Garden Breadsticks—warm, buttery, and unbelievably soft, they always bring a crowd together. Once you bake these at home, you might never wait for a restaurant basket again. Give them a try and watch smiles light up around your table!

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