Olive Garden Breadsticks are soft, warm, and packed with buttery garlic flavor that makes them impossible to resist. They have just the right amount of chewiness on the inside with a slightly crisp outside, sprinkled lightly with salt and herbs that give them that classic restaurant taste we all love.
I always find myself reaching for these breadsticks when I’m craving something simple but satisfying. A little tip I like to share is to heat them up in the oven for a few minutes before serving—the warmth brings out all the buttery garlic goodness and makes them even more comforting.
Whether I’m having them alongside a pasta dish or just enjoying them on their own, these breadsticks bring a smile every time. They remind me of cozy family dinners and catching up over good food, making them more than just bread—they’re a little taste of comfort that everyone enjoys.
Bake, Serve, Wear the Vibe 👕
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yeast: Active dry yeast is key for the soft, airy texture. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast works too—it just skips the proofing step.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives a good balance of softness and structure. For a chewier breadstick, you can add a bit of bread flour.
Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor. Unsalted is best so you can control the salt. If needed, you could substitute with olive oil for a slightly different taste.
Garlic Powder & Parsley: These give the classic Olive Garden flavor. Fresh garlic can work too, but use less to avoid overpowering the breadsticks.
How Do I Get Soft, Fluffy Breadsticks Every Time?
The secret is in the dough rising and kneading steps. Here’s what helps:
- Proof Your Yeast: Let the yeast bubble in warm water with sugar to activate it. This ensures your dough will rise well.
- Knead Properly: Knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, giving breadsticks their chewy texture.
- Let Dough Rise Twice: First rise after mixing, then shape and give it another short rise. This makes the bread soft and light inside.
- Don’t Skip Butter Brush: Brushing hot breadsticks with garlic butter right after baking keeps them moist and flavorful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Mixing bowl – perfect for combining ingredients and letting the dough rise in one place.
- Measuring cups and spoons – important to get your yeast, flour, and seasonings just right.
- Wooden spoon or dough whisk – great for stirring sticky dough without much mess.
- Baking sheet – a flat, rimmed pan that helps your breadsticks bake evenly and hold their shape.
- Parchment paper – stops breadsticks from sticking to the baking sheet and makes cleanup easy.
- Sharp knife or dough cutter – for making nice diagonal slashes on the breadsticks before baking.
- Pastry brush – essential to spread the garlic butter evenly over the warm breadsticks for flavor and shine.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Parmesan cheese – sprinkle grated Parmesan over the garlic butter for a cheesy touch that melts nicely.
- Italian seasoning – add a pinch to the butter mix to deepen herb flavor and make it more aromatic.
- Olives or sun-dried tomatoes – finely chop and knead into the dough for a savory twist with extra texture.
- Cheese-stuffed breadsticks – place small mozzarella sticks inside the dough before shaping for gooey, melty centers.
How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
- 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- Additional melted butter for brushing (about 4 tablespoons)
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt (for sprinkling)
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley flakes (or fresh parsley, finely chopped)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes total. You’ll spend roughly 15 minutes preparing the dough, then 1 hour for the dough to rise and another 15 minutes for the second rise before baking. Baking itself takes about 12-15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a small bowl, mix the yeast with warm water and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This shows the yeast is alive and ready.
2. Make the Dough:
In a large bowl, combine the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of melted butter. Stir everything together until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough:
Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead with your hands for 6-8 minutes until it feels smooth and elastic.
4. First Rise:
Put the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover it with a towel or plastic wrap, and place it somewhere warm. Let it rise until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
5. Shape the Breadsticks:
After the dough has risen, punch it down gently to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a breadstick about 6 to 7 inches long.
6. Prepare for Baking:
Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them a little apart. Use a sharp knife to make diagonal slashes lightly on top of each stick. Let them rest and rise for another 15 minutes.
7. Bake:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes until they turn a lovely golden brown color.
8. Add Garlic Butter Topping:
While baking, melt the remaining butter and mix in garlic powder and parsley. Right after baking, brush this flavorful butter generously over the hot breadsticks and sprinkle with a little salt.
9. Serve Warm:
Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden-style breadsticks warm, soft, buttery, and garlicky—perfect for pairing with your favorite meal or dipping sauce!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes, you can use instant yeast as a substitute! Simply mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it in water first. It may help the dough rise a little faster.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm them in the oven for a few minutes to bring back their softness.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough, let it rise once, then refrigerate it overnight. Before baking, let it come to room temperature and complete the second rise for best results.
What Can I Serve with These Breadsticks?
They’re perfect alongside pasta, soup, or salad. You can also use them as a base for dipping in marinara, ranch, or your favorite garlic butter sauce.
