Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

Soft, buttery, garlicky — and absolutely irresistible. These Olive Garden-style Breadsticks are the iconic side that steals the show every time. Whether you’re serving pasta, soup, or salad, nothing complements a meal quite like warm breadsticks fresh from the oven.

This copycat Olive Garden breadstick recipe delivers that same fluffy interior and slightly crisp, golden-brown exterior you know and love. Plus, they’re brushed with a mouthwatering garlic butter that makes them completely addictive. The best part? You can make them at home with simple ingredients and foolproof steps.

Skip the takeout and bring the restaurant experience to your kitchen!

???? Ingredients (U.S. Measurements)

For the Dough:

• 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley flakes (for garnish)

???? Instructions

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

In a large bowl or stand mixer, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

Step 2: Make the Dough

Add flour, salt, and softened butter to the yeast mixture. Knead by hand or using a stand mixer with a dough hook for 7–10 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Transfer dough to a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 7 inches long and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing evenly.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover with a towel and let the shaped dough rise again for 30–45 minutes until puffy.

Step 6: Bake

Preheat oven to 400°F. Bake breadsticks for 12–14 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Step 7: Garlic Butter Finish

While the breadsticks bake, mix melted butter with garlic powder and salt. As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush generously with the garlic butter. Garnish with dried parsley if desired.

???? Nutrition Facts (Per Breadstick – Approximate)

Nutrition will vary based on butter and flour brands.

???? Tips & Tricks

• Use bread flour for a chewier texture, though all-purpose works great.
• No stand mixer? Knead by hand on a floured surface for about 10 minutes.
• Make ahead: Shape the breadsticks and refrigerate overnight. Let rise at room temp before baking the next day.
• Double the garlic: Add extra garlic powder to the butter if you’re a garlic lover!

???? Chef’s Extra Touch (From Me to You)

For the ultimate flavor boost, infuse your butter topping with freshly minced garlic sautéed on low for 1–2 minutes before brushing. It gives the breadsticks a richer, more aromatic taste than powder alone.

You can also sprinkle with finely grated Parmesan or Romano cheese while the butter is still warm for a cheesy twist inspired by Olive Garden’s pasta toppings.