If you’re a fan of the warm, buttery, and garlicky breadsticks served at Olive Garden, you’re in for a treat! This Olive Garden breadsticks recipe is a faithful recreation that lets you enjoy the restaurant favorite right at home.
Whether you’re entertaining guests or craving a comforting side, these breadsticks are sure to impress.
Why Do People Love This Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe?
People love this recipe because it perfectly replicates the restaurant-quality breadsticks from Olive Garden. The combination of a soft, fluffy interior and a golden, buttery crust makes them irresistible.
The garlic butter topping adds a rich flavor that pairs well with a variety of meals. Plus, they are easy to make with simple ingredients, making them a favorite for home cooks who want to enjoy a restaurant-style experience without leaving their kitchen.
Ingredients
For the dough:
- 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 ¼ teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the garlic butter topping:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
- 3 garlic cloves, minced (or more for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 pinch of salt
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Dough hook and stand mixer (optional, but helpful)
- Clean work surface for kneading
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Small bowl for the garlic butter
Recipe for Olive Garden Breadsticks
1. Activate the Yeast
In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Stir lightly and let the mixture sit for 5-10 minutes until it becomes frothy. This indicates that the yeast is active and ready to work.
2. Make the Dough
Add the olive oil, salt, and flour to the yeast mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms. If you’re using a stand mixer with a dough hook attachment, mix on low speed until the ingredients come together. Otherwise, mix with a spoon or spatula until the dough begins to form a ball.
3. Knead the Dough
Transfer the dough to a lightly floured surface. Knead the dough for about 6-8 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic. If using a mixer, let it run for about 5 minutes. The dough should be soft yet slightly tacky, but not sticky.
4. Let It Rise
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with a clean towel or plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the Breadsticks
Once the dough has risen, gently punch it down to release excess air. Transfer it back to your work surface and roll it out to about ½-inch thickness. Cut the dough into strips, about 1-inch wide. For an authentic look, you can slightly twist each strip before placing them on the prepared baking sheet.
6. Preheat and Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Let the breadsticks rest on the baking sheet for an additional 10 minutes, which helps them achieve a light, airy texture when baked. Then, bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the breadsticks turn a light golden brown.
7. Prepare the Garlic Butter Topping
While the breadsticks are baking, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, dried parsley, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Stir until well mixed.
8. Coat and Serve
Once the breadsticks are out of the oven, immediately brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. The heat from the breadsticks will help the butter soak in, creating a delicious, savory coating. Serve warm and enjoy with your favorite pasta, salad, or soup.
Tips for Perfect Breadsticks
- Fresh Yeast is Key: Make sure your yeast is active by checking for froth during the activation step. If it doesn’t froth, your yeast might be old, and the dough won’t rise properly.
- Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer thinner or thicker breadsticks, adjust the thickness of the dough accordingly, but be mindful that this might affect baking time.
- Extra Garlic: For those who love garlic, don’t hesitate to add an extra clove or two to the garlic butter topping.
Serving Suggestions
These breadsticks pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. Serve them with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or garlic butter for dipping.
They also complement soups, salads, and pasta dishes like fettuccine Alfredo or spaghetti Bolognese. For a complete meal, enjoy them alongside a fresh Caesar salad and a hearty Italian entrée.
Storage Tips and Tricks
- Room Temperature: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: While not necessary, you can refrigerate them in a sealed container for up to a week.
- Freezing: To keep breadsticks for longer, freeze them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5 minutes to restore their texture. You can also microwave them for 10-15 seconds, but this may make them slightly softer.
Now that you have the perfect Olive Garden breadsticks recipe, try making them at home and impress your family with this restaurant-quality treat!
Conclusion
This Olive Garden breadsticks recipe brings the beloved restaurant favorite right into your kitchen with ease. With a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior, these breadsticks are the perfect complement to any meal.
Enjoy the process of making them as much as you’ll enjoy eating them—and don’t be surprised if they disappear quickly from the table!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
Yes, you can substitute instant yeast. If using instant yeast, you can mix it directly with the dry ingredients without proofing it in water first.
2. How can I make the breadsticks softer?
For extra soft breadsticks, brush them with butter immediately after baking and store them in an airtight container while they are still slightly warm.
3. Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dough, let it rise, and then refrigerate it overnight. Let it come to room temperature before shaping and baking.
4. What’s the best way to achieve a golden brown crust?
Brushing the breadsticks with melted butter before baking and using an egg wash can help achieve a beautiful golden color.
5. Can I make these breadsticks gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
6. How do I prevent my breadsticks from becoming too dense?
Make sure to measure the flour correctly (spoon and level method), knead the dough well, and allow it to rise fully before baking.
Now that you have the perfect Olive Garden breadsticks recipe, try making them at home and impress your family with this restaurant-quality treat!
Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Stand mixer (optional)
- Baking Sheet
- Parchment paper
- Pastry Brush
- Oven
Ingredients
For the Dough:
- 1 ½ cups warm water 110°F
- 2 ¼ teaspoons 1 packet active dry yeast
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
For the Garlic Butter Topping:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
Prepare the Dough
- In a large bowl, mix warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes foamy. This step activates the yeast, ensuring soft and fluffy breadsticks.
Knead the Dough
- Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the yeast mixture. Stir until a dough forms, then transfer it to a floured surface. Knead for about 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 5-6 minutes.
Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.
Shape the Breadsticks
- Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release air. Divide it into 12 equal pieces and roll each into a 7-inch log. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise
- Cover the breadsticks loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 30 minutes until puffy.
Bake the Breadsticks
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown.
Make the Garlic Butter Topping
- While the breadsticks bake, mix melted butter, garlic powder, and salt in a bowl.
Brush and Serve
- Once the breadsticks are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the garlic butter topping. Serve warm and enjoy!
