Olive Garden Breadsticks are soft, buttery, and just the right amount of garlicky goodness baked into every bite. These warm, fluffy sticks are sprinkled with a little salt and brushed with melted butter that tastes like a hug from the Italian kitchen. They’re easy to make at home and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
I love making these breadsticks when I want a simple but tasty side that everyone will enjoy. There’s something satisfying about pulling them apart right out of the oven, letting the steam warm your hands, and dipping them into marinara sauce or even a little bit of olive oil with herbs. I always make sure to brush on enough butter and garlic, because that’s what really makes them special.
These breadsticks remind me of fun family dinners where the best part was always reaching across the table for one more warm, soft breadstick. They’re perfect for game nights, weeknight dinners, or when you just want a little bit of that restaurant feeling at home. I promise, once you try making these, you’ll want them every time you sit down to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Yeast: Active dry yeast is essential for the breadsticks to rise and become fluffy. If you can’t find it, instant yeast works too—just mix it straight into the flour.
Flour: All-purpose flour gives these breadsticks structure but stay soft. You can swap half the flour with bread flour for a chewier texture.
Butter & Garlic: Butter adds richness and moisture while garlic gives the signature flavor. Use olive oil for a dairy-free option, but butter is my favorite for that classic taste.
Italian Seasoning: This herb blend creates that familiar taste. If you don’t have it, use a mix of dried parsley, oregano, and basil.
How Do You Get Breadsticks Soft Inside and Golden Outside?
The balance between a soft inside and golden outside is all about dough preparation and baking time:
- Knead the dough: Knead well for 6-8 minutes until smooth and elastic. This develops gluten, giving breadsticks their texture.
- Let it rise: Give the dough enough time to double in size. This airiness is key for softness.
- Rest the shaped sticks: After rolling the dough into sticks, let them rest 15 minutes before baking for a lighter crumb.
- Bake at 400°F: This temp helps the breadsticks brown beautifully without drying out.
- Butter at the end: Brush each hot breadstick with garlic butter right after baking to keep them moist and flavorful.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining yeast and dough ingredients without making a mess.
- Wooden spoon or dough hook – helps mix the dough until it forms without much effort.
- Measuring cups and spoons – essential for getting ingredients like yeast, salt, and sugar just right.
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper or silicone mat – keeps breadsticks from sticking and helps them bake evenly.
- Pastry brush – makes it easy to coat breadsticks with garlic butter for that shiny, flavorful finish.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Sprinkle shredded parmesan cheese on top before baking for a salty, cheesy twist.
- Add chopped fresh rosemary or thyme to the garlic butter to give the breadsticks an herby aroma.
- Try brushing with olive oil and minced roasted garlic for a milder, richer garlic flavor.
- Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter for a little spicy kick that pairs well with marinara.
How to Make Olive Garden Breadsticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 cup warm water (about 110°F/43°C)
- 2 1/4 teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (plus more for brushing)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning or dried parsley
- 2 teaspoons kosher salt, for topping
- 2-3 garlic cloves, finely minced (for garlic butter topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes active prep time, 1 hour for the dough to rise, 15 minutes for the breadsticks to rest before baking, and 12 to 15 minutes to bake. In total, plan for roughly 1 hour and 45 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Activate the Yeast:
In a large bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Stir gently and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until it becomes foamy. This means the yeast is active and ready.
2. Make the Dough:
Add melted butter, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the yeast mixture. Stir until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour, half a cup at a time, mixing well until a soft dough forms. Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead for 6 to 8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
3. First Rise:
Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl and cover it with plastic wrap or a clean towel. Let it rise in a warm spot for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
4. Shape the Breadsticks:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 12 to 16 pieces. Roll each piece into a 6 to 8-inch long breadstick. Arrange them evenly on the baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let them rest for 15 minutes for a second rise.
5. Prepare Garlic Butter and Bake:
Mix melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning or parsley, and garlic powder. Brush the breadsticks generously with this mixture and sprinkle with kosher salt. Bake for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown.
6. Final Touch:
Right after baking, brush the breadsticks again with the remaining garlic butter to make them shine and taste extra delicious. Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Enjoy your homemade Olive Garden breadsticks — soft, buttery, and bursting with flavor!
Can I Use Instant Yeast Instead of Active Dry Yeast?
Yes! Instant yeast can be used as a substitute. You can mix it directly with the flour without proofing it in water first. Just keep the rest of the recipe the same.
Can I Make the Dough Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! After the first rise, you can refrigerate the dough for up to 24 hours. Just bring it to room temperature and let it rise again before shaping and baking.
How Should I Store Leftover Breadsticks?
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To refresh, warm them in the oven at 350°F for 5-7 minutes.
Can I Freeze Olive Garden Breadsticks?
Yes, you can freeze them after baking and cooling. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. Reheat in the oven from frozen at 350°F for about 10-12 minutes.
