Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe

If you ever find yourself craving that warm, soft, and irresistibly garlicky breadstick from your favorite Italian spot, you are in for a treat with this Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe. It brings the magic of those famous golden breadsticks right to your kitchen, allowing you to enjoy every fluffy, buttery bite fresh out of your own oven. The perfect combination of tender dough, rich garlic butter, and a hint of salt will have you hooked from the very first taste, making it an ideal recipe to impress family and friends or simply satisfy your comfort food cravings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes this Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe truly special is the simplicity and quality of its ingredients. Each one plays a vital role, whether it’s the yeast creating that perfect rise or the garlic powder infusing the buttery topping with flavor. These common pantry staples come together to create an extraordinary taste and texture that feels both classic and homey.

• 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F/45°C): Just the right temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast: The powerhouse that gives your breadsticks their lovely rise and fluffiness.
• 2 tbsp granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance savory flavors.
• 4 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation for a light, chewy breadstick with just the right bite.
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness to the dough, keeping it tender and moist.
• 1 tbsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and helps strengthen the dough.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted: For brushing after baking, delivering that signature buttery shine and flavor.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: Gives the breadsticks their unmistakable garlicky aroma and taste.
• 1/2 tsp salt: Combined with garlic powder in the butter for the perfect finishing touch.

How to Make Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Begin by gently stirring together the warm water, active dry yeast, and granulated sugar in a small bowl. The water should feel comfortably warm — around 110°F — to wake up the yeast without harming it. Let this mixture sit for about 5 to 10 minutes until it turns frothy and thick. This bubbly surface tells you the yeast is lively and ready to work its magic.

Step 2: Prepare the Dough

In a large mixing bowl or your stand mixer’s bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, and salt. Pour in the activated yeast mixture and mix everything together. Knead the dough either by hand or using a dough hook attachment on medium speed for 8 to 10 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the dough feels smooth, elastic, and slightly tacky but not sticky. This step is key to developing the gluten needed for those soft yet sturdy breadsticks.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer your dough ball into a lightly greased bowl, covering it with a clean kitchen towel. Place it in a warm, draft-free spot, allowing it to double in size — usually about an hour. This rise ensures your breadsticks will be fluffy with a delicate crumb.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

Once risen, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Divide it into 12 to 14 equal portions, rolling each piece into a 6 to 7-inch rope. Lay the shaped breadsticks on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, giving them space to expand.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the tray again with your kitchen towel and let the breadsticks rise for a second time, about 20 to 30 minutes, until puffed and soft to the touch. This final rise creates that tender texture inside and a subtle chew on the outside.

Step 6: Preheat the Oven

Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) now so it’s fully heated by the time your breadsticks are ready to bake. A hot oven is crucial for developing that beautiful golden crust.

Step 7: Bake the Breadsticks

Pop the baking sheet into the oven and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. You’re looking for a golden-brown top and a fully cooked interior that’s soft and inviting.

Step 8: Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping

While the breadsticks bake, melt the remaining unsalted butter in a small bowl. Stir in the garlic powder and the half teaspoon of salt, combining it into a fragrant, flavorful mixture that will elevate the breadsticks to restaurant quality.

Step 9: Brush the Breadsticks

Once your breadsticks come out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter. The warm bread will soak in the rich flavors, leaving you with that iconic Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe finish that everyone loves.

How to Serve Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe

Garnishes

To add a little extra flair, sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese or chopped fresh parsley over the garlic butter while it’s still warm. These simple garnishes not only add color but deepen the flavor and presentation, making your breadsticks look as incredible as they taste.

Side Dishes

These breadsticks are the perfect partner for classic Italian dishes like creamy Alfredo pasta, zesty marinara spaghetti, or hearty lasagna. They also shine alongside fresh salads or warming soups, soaking up every delicious bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your breadsticks with mini dipping bowls filled with warm marinara sauce, cheesy spinach dip, or even a tangy ranch dressing. Arranging them on a rustic wooden board alongside a small pile of olives and sliced salami adds an inviting, shareable element that’s perfect for any gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover breadsticks, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. This keeps them soft and fresh enough to enjoy later without losing their beloved texture.

Freezing

Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe is freezer-friendly! Wrap the completely cooled breadsticks tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a snug freezer bag. They keep well for up to 3 months, so you can make a batch ahead for busy nights or unexpected guests.

Reheating

To bring frozen or leftover breadsticks back to life, warm your oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the breadsticks and place them on a baking sheet, heating for 5 to 7 minutes until warm and slightly crisp on the outside. A quick brush of garlic butter right before serving will freshen them up beautifully.

FAQs

Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?

Yes! Instant yeast can be substituted at the same amount, and it saves time since you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing. Just adjust the warm water temperature accordingly and keep an eye on rising times.

What if I don’t have garlic powder? Can I use fresh garlic?

Fresh garlic can be a lovely substitute, but since it’s much stronger and can burn easily, mix it into the melted butter on a low heat and strain before brushing the breadsticks to avoid any raw or bitter bites.

How do I make these breadsticks dairy-free?

Simply swap the unsalted butter for a plant-based alternative or olive oil. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious, especially with plenty of garlic and salt in the topping.

Can I make these breadsticks whole wheat?

Absolutely! Replace half or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. Keep in mind this might make the dough a bit denser and require slightly more water. It will add a hearty, nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the garlic butter.

Is it okay to use salted butter instead of unsalted?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the dough and the topping to avoid making the breadsticks too salty. Taste your garlic butter mixture before brushing to balance the seasoning.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly rewarding about making this Olive Garden-Style Homemade Breadsticks Recipe from scratch. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a little patience, you can bring the warm, fuzzy comfort and delightful flavor of those famous breadsticks straight to your table. I encourage you to try this recipe and watch how it quickly becomes a staple for family dinners, gatherings, or any time you want a little extra joy on your plate!

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