Olive Garden Breadsticks are soft, warm, and just the right amount of buttery with a sprinkle of garlic and a touch of salt. These breadsticks are a classic favorite that everyone seems to love, especially for soaking up marinara or just enjoying on their own.
I always think of these breadsticks as a little hug from the Olive Garden right at home. Baking them fresh fills the kitchen with a cozy garlic aroma that’s impossible to resist. My favorite tip is to brush them with extra melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven – it makes them even more delicious and super satisfying.
They’re perfect as a side for pasta, soup, or salad, but honestly, I can snack on these breadsticks for hours. Whenever I make a batch, friends and family can’t help but grab one… or three. It’s a simple treat that brings everyone together and makes any meal feel a bit more special.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yeast: Active dry yeast is what helps the dough rise and become fluffy. If you don’t have active dry yeast, instant yeast is a fine substitute and can be mixed directly with flour without proofing.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great here for a soft breadstick. For a slightly chewier texture, try bread flour. If gluten-free is needed, use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, though the texture may differ.
Butter and Garlic: Melted butter adds richness and softness, and garlic powder brings that classic Olive Garden flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used instead but skip adding it while baking to avoid burning.
Parsley: Fresh parsley gives a bright finish, but dried parsley flakes work well too. It’s simply for garnish and gentle flavor.
How Do You Get Soft, Fluffy Breadsticks Like Olive Garden’s?
The magic is in the dough rising and gentle handling.
- Be sure to proof your yeast in warm water with sugar to get it bubbly and active.
- Gently knead the dough until smooth and elastic — don’t rush this, about 5-7 minutes usually does the trick.
- Let the dough rise twice: once before shaping and once after shaping. This allows the dough to develop air pockets, making the breadsticks fluffy.
- Don’t overbake. Watch for a light golden top, not dark brown.
- Brush the breadsticks with warm garlic butter immediately after baking to keep them soft and flavorful.
Following these steps patiently brings that tender, buttery texture that makes Olive Garden breadsticks so comforting and delicious.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – big enough to hold the dough as it rises and makes mixing easy.
- Dough scraper or spatula – helps you handle sticky dough without mess.
- Baking sheet – for baking the breadsticks evenly; I line it with parchment for easy cleanup.
- Kitchen towel or plastic wrap – to cover dough while it rises and keep it moist.
- Pastry brush – perfect for brushing melted garlic butter on the warm breadsticks.
- Measuring cups and spoons – precise measurements keep your dough perfect every time.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella on top before baking for cheesy breadsticks that melt golden.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes in the garlic butter for a touch of heat.
- Mix in chopped fresh rosemary or oregano to the dough for herbal notes that pair well with Italian meals.
- Stuff breadsticks with a strip of pepperoni or a little cheese inside before baking for a fun surprise.
How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ¼ tsp (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 1 ¼ cups warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour, divided
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp dried parsley flakes or 1 tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
- Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 1 to 1 ½ hours for the first rise, 30 to 45 minutes for the second rise, and 12 to 15 minutes for baking. Overall, plan for about 2 to 2 ½ hours including rising time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, mix the warm water and granulated sugar. Sprinkle the yeast on top, stir gently, and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready.
2. Make the Dough
Add 2 cups of flour, melted butter, and salt to the yeast mixture. Stir everything well. Then slowly add the remaining 1 ½ cups flour while mixing, until a soft dough forms.
3. Knead the Dough
Turn the dough onto a floured surface. Knead it for 5 to 7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Add a little flour if it feels sticky, but don’t overdo it.
4. First Rise
Put the dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until it doubles in size.
5. Shape the Breadsticks
Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6-inch long breadstick. Place the breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet with space between them.
6. Second Rise
Cover the breadsticks loosely and let them rise for another 30 to 45 minutes until they puff up a bit.
7. Bake the Breadsticks
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12 to 15 minutes until the tops are golden brown.
8. Add Garlic Butter and Season
While the breadsticks are baking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and mix in the garlic powder and parsley. When the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with this garlic butter and sprinkle coarse sea salt on top.
9. Serve
Enjoy the warm breadsticks fresh from the oven with marinara sauce or your favorite dip. They’re soft, buttery, and packed with delicious garlic and herb flavor—just like Olive Garden’s!
Can I Use Frozen Breadsticks Dough?
Yes! You can prepare the dough ahead, shape the breadsticks, then freeze them on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and let rise for 30-45 minutes before baking.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Parsley?
If you don’t have fresh parsley, use dried parsley flakes as the recipe suggests. It still adds great flavor. You can also try fresh basil or oregano for a different herb twist.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store leftovers in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, warm them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 5-7 minutes to keep them soft.
Can I Add Cheese to These Breadsticks?
Absolutely! Try sprinkling shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top before baking for a cheesy version, or stuff small pieces of cheese inside each breadstick before the second rise.
