If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you know the real star of the meal isn’t just the pasta—it’s the warm, buttery, and slightly garlicky breadsticks that keep coming to the table. Now, you can recreate that iconic flavor and texture right in your own kitchen with this easy copycat recipe!
These homemade breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and brushed with a rich garlic butter topping. Made with simple ingredients, they’re even better than the restaurant version because they’re fresh out of the oven. Perfect for pairing with pasta, soup, or salad, these breadsticks will quickly become a family favorite.
The Secret to Perfect Olive Garden Breadsticks
To recreate that signature softness and flavor, follow these key tips:
- Use warm water: It activates the yeast, creating a soft and fluffy texture.
- Don’t skimp on butter and garlic: This combo gives the breadsticks their classic Olive Garden taste.
- Knead the dough well: This develops the gluten for the perfect chew.
- Brush with butter twice: Once before baking and again right after for maximum flavor.
With these simple steps, you’ll have breadsticks so good, you’ll forget about takeout!
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes! Use 2 teaspoons of instant yeast and skip the proofing step. Add it directly to the flour.
Why are my breadsticks dense?
This usually happens if the dough doesn’t rise long enough or if you use too much flour. Be patient and measure carefully!
Can I freeze these breadsticks?
Absolutely! Freeze the unbaked breadsticks after shaping. When ready to bake, let them thaw, rise, and bake as directed.
How do I reheat leftover breadsticks?
Wrap them in foil and warm in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes, or microwave for 15-20 seconds.
Ready to Bake?
These homemade Olive Garden breadsticks are the perfect addition to any meal. Soft, buttery, and irresistibly garlicky, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Give this recipe a try, and let me know in the comments how they turned out!
Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water 110°F
- 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 ½ – 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons salt
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and 1 tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy. If the mixture doesn’t foam, your yeast is inactive, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast.
- In a large bowl, mix flour, remaining sugar, and salt. Add the yeast mixture and melted butter. Stir until a dough forms.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let it rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7-inch rope and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Cover and let the breadsticks rise for 30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the tops with half of the melted butter and bake for 12-14 minutes until golden brown.
- Mix the remaining butter, garlic powder, and salt. Brush it over the warm breadsticks.
- Let the breadsticks cool for 5 minutes, then serve warm with your favorite pasta, soup, or salad!
Notes
- Use high-quality butter for the best flavor.
- Knead the dough well to develop gluten for a perfect chewy texture.
- Don’t overbake – they should be golden but still soft inside.
- For an extra garlicky kick, add a little fresh minced garlic to the butter topping.
Craving the warm, soft, and buttery breadsticks from Olive Garden? Now you can make them at home! These homemade breadsticks are a game-changer—perfectly fluffy, brushed with garlic butter, and just like the ones you love from the restaurant.
Serve them alongside pasta, soup, or salad, and bring the taste of Olive Garden to your dinner table. With this easy recipe, you’ll feel like you’re dining at your favorite Italian spot—without leaving your kitchen!
