Homemade Breadsticks

I am so excited to announce that I’ve figured out how to make Olive Garden breadsticks at home, and now you can, too. I’d dare to say that my recipe is even better than Olive Garden’s breadsticks.

Make these amazing Olive Garden-style breadsticks at home – they’re not just as good as the ones from the restaurant; they’re even better! These soft, buttery, and delicious treats are a must-bake recipe. The delicious flavor and fluffy texture will stick with you forever, just like the ones from Olive Garden.

Olive Garden breadsticks are those delicious, soft sticks served complimentary when you dine at Olive Garden. They’re somewhat fluffy, slightly chewy, and topped with a flavorful garlic butter.

What Are Olive Garden Breadsticks?

When you visit Olive Garden, they present these breadsticks at your table as a free appetizer. Guests often enjoy dipping them in olive oil, marinara sauce, or Alfredo sauce, which is also provided with the breadsticks.

These easy homemade breadsticks are a significant part of the Olive Garden experience, contributing to the restaurant’s welcoming and family-friendly atmosphere.

Why You’ll Love These Homemade Breadsticks

• Fluffy and chewy: This homemade version has the same soft and chewy texture as the restaurant version.
• Garlic Butter Goodness: The garlic butter topping adds a savory and aromatic touch to the breadsticks.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is super simple to make, and it’s perfect for beginners.
• Perfect for Any Meal: Serve these breadsticks as a side to pasta dishes, soups, or salads – they’re versatile and delicious.
• Family Favorite: These Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks will surely become a family favorite, loved by all ages.

Ingredients and Substitutions

Here’s what you’ll need to prepare these delicious Olive Garden Breadsticks:

• Flour – I used bread flour for a chewier texture. All-purpose gluten-free flour can be used as a gluten-free option.
• Warm Water – Use water at around 110-115°F (43-46°C) for optimal yeast activation. Make sure the water is not too hot, or it will destroy the yeast, and the dough won’t rise. You can use milk for a slightly richer flavor.
• Instant Yeast – You’ll need a standard package of instant yeast, which is about 2 1/4 teaspoons. Active dry yeast can be used as a substitute; however, it must be activated in warm water before being added to the mixture.
• Sugar – Helps to activate the yeast, making the dough super tender.
• Butter – Adds richness, flavor, and moisture to the bread.
• Salt – Use fine salt to ensure even distribution.
• Garlic Powder – Fresh minced garlic can be used for a more intense garlic flavor. 

How To Make The Best Homemade Breadsticks

1. Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together warm water, instant yeast, granulated sugar, butter, and salt until evenly mixed. Let the yeast mixture sit for 10 minutes to activate the yeast, ensuring a better rise. It’s ready when it looks bubbly on top.
2. Gradually Add Flour: Slowly incorporate the flour, adding one cup at a time and stirring well after each addition, until a soft dough forms. If you have a stand mixer, feel free to use it with a dough hook for this step, although it’s perfectly fine to mix by hand as not everyone has a stand mixer.
3. Knead to Perfection: Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. Use additional flour sparingly to keep the dough from sticking.
4. Let the Dough Rise: Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean towel, and allow to rise in a warm, draft-free area until it doubles in size, about 1 hour.
5. Preheat Your Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking.
6. Shape Your Breadsticks: Divide the risen dough into 12 portions, rolling each into a 9-inch logs. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Bake to Golden Perfection: Bake for 20 minutes or until the breadsticks turn a lovely golden brown.
8. Add the Finishing Touches: Mix melted butter, kosher salt, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Brush this mixture over the hot breadsticks for that signature Olive Garden flavor.

Serving Ideas

• Dipping Sauces: Serve with classic Olive Garden dipping sauces, such as marinara or Alfredo sauce, for an authentic touch.
• Cheese Dip: Pair the breadsticks with a warm cheese dip or fondue for a gooey and indulgent treat.
• Soup: Serve alongside your favorite soups, like minestrone or lentil soup, for a comforting and satisfying meal.
• Salad: Use the breadsticks as a side with salads. Their garlic flavor complements a wide range of salads, creating a balanced and flavorful combination.
• Sandwiches: You can use them as a base for mini sandwiches or sliders. Fill them with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and veggies.
• Pasta Partner: Serve alongside your favorite pasta dishes to soak up the delicious sauces. The garlic butter flavor pairs well with creamy beef pasta or marry-me chicken pasta.
• Snacking: Enjoy them on their own as a tasty snack. They are perfect for nibbling while watching a movie or during a casual get-together.

Troubleshooting

• Dough Too Sticky: Gradually add more flour, one tablespoon at a time, while kneading until the dough reaches the desired consistency. Avoid adding too much flour at once, as it can result in dry breadsticks.
• Dough Not Rising: Check the freshness of your yeast. Ensure the water temperature is within the recommended range for activating the yeast. 
• Breadsticks Turn Out Dense or Tough: Avoid over-kneading the dough, as this can result in a dense texture. Follow the recommended kneading time.
• Breadsticks Too Dry: Ensure you use the recommended amount of butter in the dough. Overbaking can also lead to dryness, so pay attention to the baking time.

More Easy Bread Recipes

• No Knead Bread
• 2 Ingredient Bagels
• Cheesy Garlic Bread

Homemade Breadsticks (Copycat Olive Garden )

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Learn how to make delicious Olive Garden-style breadsticks with this easy recipe. These homemade breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and coated in a tasty garlic butter mixture, perfect for any meal.

Author: Ioana

Prep: 15 minutes mins

Cook: 20 minutes mins

Total: 35 minutes mins

Print Pin Rate

12 breadsticks

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 cup warm water plus more as needed at about 100-110°F
• ▢ 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast
• ▢ 2 tbsp granulated sugar
• ▢ 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• ▢ 1 1/2 tsp salt
• ▢ 4 cups bread flour

For the topping:

• ▢ 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
• ▢ 1/2 tsp salt
• ▢ 1 tsp garlic powder

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, instant yeast, granulated sugar, butter, and salt. Mix the ingredients well until they are evenly distributed. Cover and allow to sit for 10 minutes until it looks frothy and bubbly on top.
2. Gradually add the bread flour to the mixture, one cup at a time, kneading well after each addition. Continue adding flour until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead for about 8-10 minutes or until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
5. Preheat your oven to 400°F/ 200°C.
6. Once the dough has doubled in size, divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a 9-inch log and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown.
8. In a small bowl, combine melted butter, kosher salt, and garlic powder for the topping.
9. Remove from the oven and brush each breadstick generously with the mixture.

Notes

For an easier dough-making process, you can use a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment.

Nutrition Information

Serving: 1 serving, Calories: 206 kcal, Carbohydrates: 33 g, Protein: 6 g, Fat: 6 g, Saturated Fat: 3 g, Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.5 g, Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g, Trans Fat: 0.2 g, Cholesterol: 13 mg, Sodium: 391 mg, Potassium: 60 mg, Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 2 g, Vitamin A: 147 IU, Vitamin C: 0.01 mg, Calcium: 9 mg, Iron: 0.4 mg

The nutritional information provided on this website is intended to be a helpful reference and convenience for our users. It is offered as a courtesy and is based on data primarily sourced from the USDA Food Composition Database.

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