There’s something deeply comforting about pulling a tray of golden-brown breadsticks out of the oven and knowing that each one is slathered in warm, savory garlic butter. These Olive Garden–style breadsticks bring that familiar restaurant experience straight into your home kitchen, turning any meal into a cozy feast. They’re soft and fluffy on the inside, with just enough chewiness to remind you of those endless baskets you’ve come to love. Each bite offers a perfect balance of a slightly crisp exterior giving way to a pillowy center, all wrapped up in the unforgettable flavor of garlic and melted butter. Whether you’re pairing them with your favorite marinara or serving them alongside a creamy soup, these breadsticks steal the spotlight every single time.
What makes these breadsticks even more exciting is how approachable the recipe really is. Designed for home cooks of any skill level, this beginner-friendly method takes about 30 minutes of hands-on prep, a quick 15 minutes in the oven, plus a total resting time of around 1 hour and 50 minutes for those glorious dough rises. That means you can easily plan to let the dough do most of the work while you prepare a simple pasta, salad, or soup. And at just 120 calories per breadstick, you can savor each bite without the guilt. The ingredients are pantry staples—flour, water, yeast, a little sugar, and some salt—so there’s no need for special trips to the grocery store. Soon enough, you’ll be spreading garlic butter over a dozen piping-hot breadsticks and enjoying the kind of comfort food delight that makes any day feel worth celebrating.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN OLIVE GARDEN BREADSTICKS
Before diving into the dough-stretching and oven-timing, it helps to understand why each ingredient is essential to creating that trademark texture and flavor. From the yeast that gives lift to the garlic butter that creates irresistible aroma, every component has its indispensable role.
- Warm Water
Activates the yeast and helps dissolve the sugar. Temperature around 110°F ensures the yeast wakes up without killing those helpful microbes, giving your breadsticks the perfect rise.
- Granulated Sugar
Feeds the yeast, encouraging a vigorous fermentation that produces those airy pockets inside each breadstick. It also adds just a hint of sweetness that balances the garlic and salt.
- Active Dry Yeast
The leavening powerhouse. As it ferments, it releases carbon dioxide bubbles that make the dough light and fluffy. Fresh, active yeast ensures a reliable rise every time.
- Salt
Enhances flavor and controls yeast activity. It’s critical for seasoning the dough itself so the final breadsticks aren’t bland, and it balances the sweetness from the sugar.
- Vegetable Oil
Keeps the dough soft and tender while preventing it from sticking. It also enriches the texture and gives the crust a slight sheen once baked.
- All-Purpose Flour
The foundation of the dough. Provides structure thanks to its gluten-forming proteins, which trap those bubbles and create a stretchy, elastic dough.
- Unsalted Butter
Forms the rich base of the garlic butter topping. When melted, it soaks into the breadstick’s surface, giving a glossy finish and irresistible richness.
- Garlic Powder
Infuses every bite with bold garlic flavor. Unlike fresh garlic, it disperses evenly in the melted butter, ensuring consistent seasoning.
- Salt (for Garlic Butter Topping)
Balances the richness of the melted butter and intensifies the garlic notes. A little sprinkle over the hot breadsticks brings out all the flavors.
- Dried Oregano (Optional)
Adds a hint of herbal aroma that complements the garlic perfectly. It’s a subtle nod to classic Italian seasoning without overpowering the butter’s flavor.
HOW TO MAKE OLIVE GARDEN BREADSTICKS
This section will guide you through each stage of dough preparation, rising, shaping, and baking so you end up with bakery-quality breadsticks right in your kitchen. Follow each step carefully, and don’t skip the resting times—they’re crucial for achieving that soft, airy texture Olive Garden is known for.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, granulated sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5–10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly, signaling that the yeast is active.
2. Add the salt, vegetable oil, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated, forming a loose batter.
3. Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition. Continue until a soft dough forms that pulls away from the sides of the bowl.
4. Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6–8 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Proper kneading builds gluten structure for a perfect chew.
5. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1–1.5 hours or until it has doubled in size. This bulk rise is essential for lightness.
6. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s hot and ready when the breadsticks finish their final proofing.
7. Punch down the risen dough to release excess air and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7-inch long breadstick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving space for expansion.
8. Cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 15–20 minutes until they appear puffy.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 12–15 minutes or until the breadsticks turn golden brown on top and sound hollow when tapped.
10. While they’re baking, prepare the garlic butter by combining the melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and oregano (if using) in a small bowl, whisking until smooth.
11. Remove the baked breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture, ensuring each surface is coated.
12. Allow the breadsticks to cool slightly before serving. They’re best enjoyed warm, with that buttery garlic aroma still wafting through the air.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR OLIVE GARDEN BREADSTICKS
These soft, garlicky breadsticks are incredibly versatile, shining as both a star appetizer and a comforting side. Below are some favorite ways to present them, whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or craving a quick snack on a weeknight. Each suggestion keeps things simple but elevates the experience, so you can serve like a pro even if you’re still a kitchen newbie.
- Classic Marinara Dip
Serve with a small bowl of warm marinara sauce. To achieve the perfect dunking consistency, gently simmer the sauce for 5 minutes to deepen its flavor, then spoon it into individual ramekins so every guest can indulge in that tangy, tomato-rich goodness.
- Creamy Alfredo Pairing
Offer these breadsticks alongside a creamy Alfredo pasta. The smooth, cheesy sauce clings beautifully to the breadstick’s surface. Arrange the sticks on the side of a shallow, wide pasta bowl, so diners can scoop up both noodles and bread in every bite.
- Herb-Infused Olive Oil
Prepare a dipping platter with high-quality extra-virgin olive oil infused with minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and fresh rosemary sprigs. Let the flavors meld for at least 20 minutes before serving. A shallow dish works best for dunking each breadstick tip into this fragrant oil.
- Sides for Soups and Stews
Present the breadsticks alongside hearty soups like minestrone or creamy tomato bisque. Lay two warm breadsticks on a wooden board with a small dish of softened butter in between. The butter melts on contact, creating a luscious coating as they soak up the soup’s broth.
HOW TO STORE OLIVE GARDEN BREADSTICKS
Proper storage keeps your homemade breadsticks tasting fresh, soft, and flavorful long after the oven cools. Whether you have leftovers or want to prepare ahead for a gathering, follow these methods to maintain that signature texture and garlicky punch.
- Room Temperature Short-Term
Once completely cooled, place the breadsticks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them at room temperature for up to 2 days. This prevents the crust from becoming stale while preserving the buttery garlic coating.
- Refrigeration
If you plan to enjoy them within 4–5 days, wrap each breadstick individually in foil and place them in a zip-top bag. Refrigeration slows down microbial growth and extends freshness. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet at 350°F for 5–7 minutes until warmed through.
- Freezing for Long-Term
Lay the cooled breadsticks on a baking sheet and freeze until firm (about 1 hour). Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible. They keep well for up to 3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a 375°F oven for 12–15 minutes, brushing with extra garlic butter halfway through.
- Reviving Softness
For slightly dried-out sticks, wrap them in a damp paper towel and place them inside a warm (turned-off) oven for 5 minutes. The gentle steam restores moisture and softness without overbaking or drying them further.
CONCLUSION
From the first step of proofing yeast to the final brush of melted garlic butter, we’ve walked through every detail that makes these homemade Olive Garden breadsticks a true crowd-pleaser. Embracing simple pantry staples—flour, water, yeast, a little sugar, and salt—allows even beginner cooks to achieve that iconic soft, airy texture reminiscent of your favorite Italian restaurant. With just 30 minutes of active preparation, a 15-minute bake time, and a total rest time under two hours, you can turn everyday ingredients into something extraordinary. Plenty of rising and kneading practice ensures the dough develops the gluten structure that creates those satisfying little air pockets. Then comes the best part: smothering each breadstick in a garlic butter blend that infuses every bite with rich, savory flavor. Serving suggestions range from dipping in marinara to pairing with creamy Alfredo, showing just how adaptable these garlic-slicked sticks can be. And with easy storage tips—airtight containers for short-term, foil wraps for refrigeration, or freezing for months of future enjoyment—you’ll always have comfort food on hand.
Feel free to print out this article and save it for later so you can return to these instructions whenever the craving for fluffy, garlicky breadsticks strikes. Below, you’ll find a FAQ section to address common questions about ingredient substitutions, proofing times, and reheating methods. If you give this recipe a try, we’d love to hear from you! Share your experiences, ask questions, or leave feedback on any part of the process. Whether you nailed the perfect crust or want tips on achieving an even softer interior, let us know in the comments. Your stories and suggestions help us all become better home cooks—one delicious breadstick at a time.
Olive Garden Breadsticks
Description
These fluffy breadsticks, brushed generously with savory garlic butter, are irresistible and perfect for complementing your favorite pasta dishes or enjoying alone.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let sit for about 5-10 minutes until the mixture becomes frothy and bubbly.
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Add salt, vegetable oil, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Mix well until combined.
-
Gradually add the remaining flour, one cup at a time, stirring well after each addition until a soft dough forms.
-
Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for about 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
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Place kneaded dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
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Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7-inch long breadstick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving some space between each breadstick.
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Cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let rise for another 15-20 minutes.
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Bake in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown.
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While the breadsticks are baking, make the garlic butter by combining melted butter, garlic powder, salt, and oregano (if using) in a small bowl.
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Remove the baked breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.
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Allow breadsticks to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy them warm for the best taste.
Note
- You can adjust the amount of garlic powder to taste if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor.
- Breadsticks can be frozen after baking and reheated in the oven for a quick snack.
- These breadsticks are great for serving with pasta dishes, soups, or just as a standalone treat.
