Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks Recipe

Warm, pillowy, buttery Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks are the ultimate comfort treat! With their irresistible aroma and that signature soft bite, these breadsticks will transport you straight to your favorite Italian restaurant—only now, you can enjoy them fresh from your own oven.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks is how simple the ingredient list really is. Each component plays a starring role, from creating that plush crumb to producing the classic golden finish everyone craves.

• Warm water: Jumpstarts the yeast and helps form the dough—make sure it’s not too hot, or you’ll risk deactivating the yeast.
• Granulated sugar: Feeds the yeast for a pillowy rise and brings a subtle hint of sweetness.
• Dry yeast: The magic behind the breadsticks’ lift and airy texture—instant or rapid rise yeast works quickest!
• Bread flour: The secret to chewy, fluffy breadsticks, thanks to its higher protein content.
• Salt: Balances the flavor for that perfectly seasoned bite.
• Unsalted butter: Lends richness and classic buttery flavor—from inside the dough to the final brush on top.
• Garlic granules: Key to that signature savory, garlicky finish.

Variations

Part of the fun of Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks is making them your own! Whether you’re feeling savory, spicy, or sweet, these easy variations let you customize every batch to fit your cravings or dietary needs.

• Plain breadsticks: Skip the garlic and brush with egg wash for simple, classic soft breadsticks.
• Everything bagel breadsticks: Add an egg wash and a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for a zesty twist.
• Italian herb breadsticks: Dust with dried oregano or Italian herbs before baking for an extra burst of flavor.
• Sweet cinnamon breadsticks: After baking, brush with butter and roll in cinnamon sugar for a dessert-worthy treat.

How to Make Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks

Step 1: Activate the Yeast

Start by mixing the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit until the yeast becomes frothy and bubbly—usually about 10 minutes. If your yeast doesn’t foam, it might be old, so it’s best to grab a fresh packet for that essential lift!

Step 2: Make and Knead the Dough

In a larger bowl, combine the bread flour with melted butter and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and stir until a shaggy dough forms. Now, turn it out onto a floured surface and knead for a solid 7 minutes—your dough should end up smooth, elastic, and just slightly tacky.

Step 3: Shape Your Breadsticks

Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each into a rope—aim for about 7 inches in length for that classic Olive Garden look. Uniform size helps them bake evenly and look bakery-perfect!

Step 4: Proof for Fluffiness

Arrange the shaped breadsticks on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Drape them loosely with a clean towel and let them rise for about 1 hour in a warm spot. When they have doubled in size and look puffy, they’re ready for the oven.

Step 5: Bake, Brush, and Finish

Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C) near the end of the rise. Bake breadsticks for 15 minutes, until golden. As soon as they come out, brush generously with melted butter and sprinkle with your garlic-salt mixture. Serve warm for maximum deliciousness—just like in the restaurant!

How to Serve Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks

Garnishes

A classic finish for Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks is a generous brush of melted butter immediately after baking, followed by a sprinkle of garlic granules and salt. For a herby twist, add a dash of dried parsley or Italian seasoning for color and extra flavor.

Side Dishes

These breadsticks were made for dunking! Pair with a warm marinara sauce, Alfredo, or a simple bowl of herbed olive oil. They’re also perfect alongside homemade soups, fresh salads, or as an accompaniment to your favorite pasta dishes for a true restaurant experience at home.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks in a lined bread basket with a checkered towel for that authentic trattoria feel. For parties, stand them upright in a mason jar, or slice diagonally and serve with a trio of dips for a chic, shareable appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover breadsticks in an airtight container or zip-top bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you brushed them with butter and garlic, add a sheet of parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing

Once cooled completely, freeze breadsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months—ready for those last-minute cravings!

Reheating

To revive that fresh-baked magic, reheat breadsticks in a 350°F oven for 5–7 minutes, covered loosely with foil to keep them soft. You can also microwave briefly, but the oven will restore that perfect bite best.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Now you’re just one batch away from the ultimate comfort—Homemade Olive Garden-Style Breadsticks, golden, soft, and full of that familiar garlicky warmth. Gather your ingredients, invite someone over, and let your kitchen fill with that irresistible bakery-fresh aroma. You’re going to love every bite!

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