If you have ever wondered how to recreate those irresistibly soft and buttery breadsticks from your favorite Italian restaurant at home, this Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe is your golden ticket. With a perfect balance of garlicky goodness, subtle herb flavor, and that iconic melt-in-your-mouth texture, these breadsticks transform any meal into a comforting feast. The magic lies in the simple yet thoughtfully combined ingredients, easy kneading and rising steps, and that finishing touch of garlic butter that makes every bite utterly delightful.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you dive into making these luscious breadsticks, gather some straightforward but essential ingredients. Each one plays an important role—whether it’s activating the yeast for that fluffy rise, adding sweetness, or bringing in the unmistakable buttery-garlic flavor that makes these breadsticks so beloved.
- 1 cup warm water: Perfect temperature to activate the yeast without killing it.
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast: The secret to those soft, pillowy breadsticks.
- 2 tablespoons sugar: Feeds the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors with just the right amount of savory balance.
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil: Keeps the dough tender and moist.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The sturdy base that gives structure and chew.
- 2 tablespoons melted butter: Coats the breadsticks for that classic rich finish.
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt with parsley flakes: Brings in the iconic garlic-herb flavor signature to Olive Garden’s breadsticks.
How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe
Step 1: Activate the Yeast
Start by stirring together warm water, yeast, and sugar in a large bowl. Then, let this mixture sit quietly for 5 to 10 minutes. You’ll want to see it bubble and foam up—that’s the yeast waking up and getting ready to make your dough rise beautifully.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Next, add the salt, vegetable oil, and 2 cups of flour right into the foamy yeast mixture. Give it a good stir until everything starts to come together. This is the base of your dough starting to form, so it’s okay if it looks a little shaggy right now.
Step 3: Add More Flour Gradually
Slowly mix in the remaining ½ cup of flour in ¼ cup increments. Keep an eye out for when the dough begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. It should be soft, still slightly sticky, but manageable. This texture is key to getting that perfect softness in your breadsticks.
Step 4: Knead the Dough
Turn your dough onto a lightly floured surface. Now it’s time to get hands-on! Knead for 5 to 7 minutes, gently folding and pushing the dough. Sprinkle a little flour if it’s too sticky, but try not to add too much—you want the dough supple and elastic.
Step 5: First Rise
Place your perfectly kneaded dough into a lightly greased bowl and cover it with a clean kitchen towel. Let it rest in a warm spot for at least 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it has doubled in size—that’s the yeast working its magic again.
Step 6: Shape the Breadsticks
Once risen, punch the dough down gently to release any air bubbles. Divide it evenly into 12 portions. Roll each piece into a rope about 9 inches long and set them spaced out on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Step 7: Final Rise
Cover your shaped breadsticks with a towel and allow them to rise for another 20 to 30 minutes. This last step ensures extra fluffiness and tenderness for when they come out of the oven.
How to Serve Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe
Garnishes
Traditionally, these breadsticks shine with a generous brushing of melted butter mixed with garlic salt and sprinkled parsley flakes. For a little extra flair, consider a final sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dusting of Italian seasoning before serving.
Side Dishes
These breadsticks are the perfect sidekick to hearty pasta dishes like spaghetti bolognese or creamy fettuccine Alfredo. They also pair beautifully with soups like minestrone or a warm bowl of tomato basil soup to soak up every last bit of flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to wow your guests? Serve the breadsticks in a rustic basket lined with a bright red and white checkered cloth for that cozy Italian vibe. You can also present them alongside a trio of dips—marinara, garlic butter, and a spinach-artichoke spread—to turn an everyday snack into a shared party hit.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare!), store the breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 2 days, but you’ll want to reheat them slightly to restore their softness.
Freezing
To keep the magic longer, freeze unbaked shaped breadsticks by wrapping the baking sheet tightly with plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer bag. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and let them rise again before baking.
Reheating
Reheat leftover breadsticks in a warm oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 to 10 minutes. This brings back their freshly baked texture, making them almost as good as the day you made them.
FAQs
Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Absolutely! Instant yeast can be used in this recipe; just mix it directly with the flour and reduce the water temperature slightly. This can even speed up the rising process.
What if my dough is too sticky to handle?
Simply sprinkle a bit more flour onto your work surface and your hands as you knead. The dough should be soft but not sticky enough to stick to everything.
How do I know when the dough has risen enough?
When the dough doubles in size and springs back slowly when poked, it’s ready for the next step. This usually takes around 30 minutes but can vary depending on room temperature.
Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?
While this recipe calls for all-purpose flour, you can try gluten-free baking flour blends designed for yeast breads. Keep in mind the texture might differ slightly from the classic.
Can I add cheese to the Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe?
Definitely! Rolling shredded mozzarella or parmesan into the dough before baking can add a delightful melty twist that cheesy bread lovers will adore.
Final Thoughts
Making the Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe at home is one of those culinary joys that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It’s surprisingly easy, requires just a handful of ingredients, and the result is beyond satisfying. Whether you’re serving a weeknight dinner or planning a special gathering, these breadsticks are guaranteed to impress and comfort. Give it a try—you won’t regret having this recipe in your cooking arsenal!
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Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 breadsticks 1x
Description
This recipe recreates the famous Olive Garden breadsticks at home. Soft, buttery, and garlicky, these homemade breadsticks are perfect as an appetizer or side dish to your favorite Italian meals. The dough is easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, rises twice for the perfect texture, and topped with garlic salt and parsley for that authentic Olive Garden taste.
Ingredients
For the Dough
- 1 cup warm water
- 1 tablespoon active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
For the Topping
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic salt with parsley flakes
Instructions
- Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine warm water, active dry yeast, and sugar. Let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes foamy, indicating the yeast is active.
- Mix the dough: Add salt, vegetable oil, and 2 cups of all-purpose flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until fully combined.
- Add remaining flour: Gradually add the remaining ½ cup flour, a quarter cup at a time, mixing well. Continue until the dough pulls away from the sides of the bowl and feels soft but slightly sticky.
- Knead the dough: Turn the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, adding flour as needed to prevent sticking. The dough should be smooth and elastic.
- First rise: Place the kneaded dough in a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for at least 30 minutes or until doubled in size.
- Divide and shape: After rising, punch down the dough gently to release air bubbles. Divide it into 12 equal portions.
- Form breadsticks: Roll each portion into a 9-inch long rope. Place them evenly spaced on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
- Second rise: Cover the breadsticks with a towel and allow them to rise again for 20-30 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat and bake: Preheat the oven to 400°F (204°C). Optionally brush the breadsticks with melted butter before baking for a golden crust.
- Bake breadsticks: Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
- Final touch: Immediately brush the hot breadsticks with melted butter mixed with garlic salt and parsley flakes for that signature Olive Garden flavor.
- Serve warm: Serve the breadsticks warm as a delightful appetizer or alongside your favorite pasta dish.
Notes
- Ensure water is warm, not hot, to properly activate the yeast.
- Knead dough thoroughly to develop gluten, which affects texture.
- Rising times may vary based on room temperature.
- Use parchment paper to prevent sticking and easy cleanup.
- For extra flavor, try adding a sprinkle of parmesan cheese before baking.
- Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
