Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

Create the irresistible taste of Olive Garden right in your kitchen with these soft, buttery breadsticks. Perfectly baked and brushed with garlic and herb butter, this easy recipe will have you serving up warm, fresh breadsticks that are perfect for dipping or as a side to your favorite pasta dish. It’s an essential addition to any Italian-inspired meal that will impress your guests and family alike.

Josie Lambert

Created by

Josie Lambert

Last updated on 2025-12-14T02:51:01.836Z

These breadsticks are not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make at home. With just a few ingredients, you can recreate the magic of Olive Garden's signature starter.

Perfect Accompaniment to Italian Meals

Breadsticks are a staple side in Italian dining, and these homemade Olive Garden-style breadsticks are no exception. Their warm, soft texture and delicious flavor make them the ideal companion to any pasta dish, soup, or salad. Whether you’re enjoying a classic spaghetti with marinara or a rich alfredo, these breadsticks will enhance your meal, providing that satisfying element that keeps you and your guests coming back for more.

The experience of dipping warm breadsticks into marinara sauce or garlic butter is one that can elevate your dining experience. They’re not just a side; they are a delightful addition that offers a touch of comfort and joy. This Italian tradition is easy to replicate at home, ensuring that you create your own perfect meal alongside the breadsticks.

Easy to Make with Simple Ingredients

This Olive Garden breadsticks recipe calls for common ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. The combination of warm water, yeast, and flour creates a simple yet satisfying dough that transforms into fluffy breadsticks. Unlike many bakery-bought versions, making these from scratch allows you to customize seasoning to your liking, ensuring that every bite meets your expectations.

With just a bit of kneading and a little patience during the rising time, you can create a bakery-quality breadstick at home. The process is straightforward, making it accessible even for novice bakers. You don't need any special equipment or fancy ingredients, just a little time and love.

Impress Your Guests

Imagine the delight on your guests' faces as they bite into a warm, buttery breadstick fresh from the oven. Homemade breadsticks not only give your meal a restaurant-quality flair but also showcase your culinary skills. With a beautifully brushed garlic butter glaze, the aroma and flavor will have everyone asking for your secret recipe.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering, serving homemade breadsticks is a simple yet effective way to elevate your hospitality. They provide a warm welcome and set the tone for a delightful evening filled with good food and great company.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 5 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp dried parsley

Make sure to have everything prepped before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your breadsticks:

Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix in melted butter and salt, then gradually add flour. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover 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 and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and place on a greased baking sheet.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Add Butter and Seasoning

While the breadsticks are baking, mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley. Brush this mixture over the breadsticks immediately after they come out of the oven.

Serve warm and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden breadsticks!

Tips for Perfect Breadsticks

To ensure your breadsticks turn out perfectly every time, be mindful of your dough’s texture. It should feel soft and elastic but not sticky. Adding too much flour or inadequate kneading can result in dense breadsticks, so strive to find the right balance. If necessary, adjust the flour incrementally until you achieve the desired consistency.

Another tip is to allow your breadsticks to rise in a warm, draft-free area. This will encourage proper fermentation and create a light texture. If your kitchen is cool, consider using your oven’s warm setting or placing the dough near a sunny spot.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftover breadsticks, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through.

To refresh their buttery flavor, consider brushing them with melted garlic butter before reheating. This not only brings back their original taste but also adds a delightful aroma that fills your kitchen and reminds you of Olive Garden’s warmth.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make the dough ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking.

→ How do I store the leftover breadsticks?

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days.

Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

Create the irresistible taste of Olive Garden right in your kitchen with these soft, buttery breadsticks. Perfectly baked and brushed with garlic and herb butter, this easy recipe will have you serving up warm, fresh breadsticks that are perfect for dipping or as a side to your favorite pasta dish. It’s an essential addition to any Italian-inspired meal that will impress your guests and family alike.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration20 minutes
Overall Time35 minutes

Created by: Josie Lambert

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 12 breadsticks

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups warm water (110°F)
  2. 1 package (2 1/4 tsp) active dry yeast
  3. 1/3 cup granulated sugar
  4. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  5. 1 tsp salt
  6. 5 cups all-purpose flour
  7. 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted (for brushing)
  8. 1 tsp garlic powder
  9. 1 tsp dried parsley

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.

Mix in melted butter and salt, then gradually add flour. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic.

Step 02

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until it doubles in size.

Step 03

Once the dough has risen, punch it down and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope and place on a greased baking sheet.

Step 04

Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 05

While the breadsticks are baking, mix melted butter with garlic powder and parsley. Brush this mixture over the breadsticks immediately after they come out of the oven.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Total Fat: 4g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Protein: 3g