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
Scale
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