Soft, buttery, and perfectly seasoned—these copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks taste just like the real thing! Fluffy on the inside with a golden crust brushed in garlic butter, they’re the ultimate sidekick for soups, salads, and pasta. Bonus: they’re surprisingly easy to make at home!
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F / 43°C)
- 2¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
- 1½ teaspoons salt
- 3 cups all-purpose flour (plus more as needed)
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- Optional: pinch of Italian seasoning or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let sit for 5–10 minutes, until foamy. - Make the Dough:
Add softened butter, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a soft dough forms. Knead by hand or with a stand mixer for 6–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. - First Rise:
Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 to 1½ hours, or until doubled in size. - Shape the Breadsticks:
Punch down dough and divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a rope about 7 inches long. Place on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart. - Second Rise:
Cover the breadsticks and let rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy. - Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 12–14 minutes, or until lightly golden. - Brush with Garlic Butter:
While warm, brush the breadsticks generously with the melted butter mixture. Sprinkle with extra salt or herbs if desired.
Tips
- Use warm—not hot—water to activate yeast without killing it.
- For extra-soft breadsticks, cover them loosely with foil for the last few minutes of baking.
- Brush with garlic butter right out of the oven so it soaks in beautifully.
- Want to save time? Make the dough ahead and refrigerate overnight after the first rise.
Variations and Substitutions
- Cheesy Breadsticks: Sprinkle with parmesan or mozzarella before baking.
- Herb-Infused Dough: Add dried Italian herbs or garlic powder into the dough.
- Sweet Version: Skip the garlic butter and brush with melted butter and cinnamon sugar.
- Dairy-Free: Use plant-based butter for a vegan alternative.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes—skip the proofing step and mix it directly into the flour. Reduce rise time slightly.
Can I freeze the dough or baked breadsticks?
Yes! Freeze dough after shaping or freeze fully baked breadsticks. Reheat at 350°F for 5–7 minutes.
Why are my breadsticks dense?
Likely from too much flour or not enough rise time. Be sure the dough is soft and well-kneaded.
Do I need a stand mixer?
Nope! This dough is soft enough to knead by hand—just a little elbow grease will do.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve alongside soups like creamy tomato, minestrone, or broccoli cheddar.
- Pair with classic pasta dishes like fettuccine alfredo, lasagna, or spaghetti.
- Enjoy dipped in marinara, alfredo sauce, or olive oil & balsamic vinegar.
- Add to a charcuterie board or salad night as the perfect warm bread option.
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