Olive Garden Breadsticks

Short description

These homemade Olive Garden-style breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and perfectly seasoned with garlic and butter. With a warm, golden crust and a melt-in-your-mouth texture, they make the perfect side dish for pasta, soups, or a simple snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Soft and fluffy: These breadsticks are incredibly light and airy, just like the ones from Olive Garden.
• Garlic and buttery goodness: The perfect blend of garlic, butter, and salt makes these breadsticks incredibly flavorful and irresistible.
• Homemade delight: The satisfaction of pulling freshly baked breadsticks from your oven, all golden and warm, is unmatched.
• Perfect for dipping: These breadsticks are perfect for dipping in sauces like marinara, Alfredo, or even olive oil.
• Freezer-friendly: You can freeze unbaked breadsticks and bake them fresh whenever you want!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Breadsticks:

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons warm water (110°F)
• 1 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
• 3 cups all-purpose flour, divided (+ more as needed)
• 1 3/4 teaspoons salt
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)

For the Topping:

• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

Making the Dough:

1. Activate the yeast: In the bowl of a stand mixer, add the warm water, yeast, and 1/2 teaspoon of the granulated sugar. Whisk until the yeast dissolves. Let it sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy.
2. Mix the dough: Add the remaining sugar, 1 1/2 cups of flour, salt, and oil to the yeast mixture. Using the paddle attachment, mix at low speed until combined.
3. Knead the dough: Switch to the dough hook attachment. Gradually add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of flour and knead at low speed for about 7-8 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is too sticky, gradually add up to 1/4 cup more flour, but be careful not to add too much.
4. Let the dough rise: Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm, draft-free place for about 1 1/2 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

Shaping the Breadsticks:

5. Punch down the dough: Once the dough has risen, punch it down to release the air.
6. Shape the dough: Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into an 8-inch rope on a lightly floured surface.
7. Place the dough on baking sheets: Arrange the breadsticks on two parchment-lined baking sheets, leaving a bit of space between each one. Cover the trays with plastic wrap or a towel and let the breadsticks rise for another hour.

Baking the Breadsticks:

8. Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) during the last 10 minutes of the second rise.
9. Bake the breadsticks: Bake for 11–13 minutes or until the breadsticks are golden brown. Be careful not to overbake, as they will continue to brown slightly once removed from the oven.
10. Prepare the topping: While the breadsticks are baking, combine the salt and garlic powder in a small bowl.
11. Finish the breadsticks: Once the breadsticks are out of the oven, immediately brush them with the melted butter and sprinkle the garlic-salt mixture over the tops.

Serve:

12. Enjoy: Serve the breadsticks warm. They are perfect on their own or paired with your favorite dipping sauce!

Servings and timing

• Serves 12 (1 breadstick per serving)
• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Rise time: 2 hours (for both the first and second rise)
• Bake time: 11-13 minutes
• Total time: 2.5–3 hours

Variations

• Cheesy garlic breadsticks: After baking, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese on top of the breadsticks and let it melt for a cheesy twist.
• Herb-infused breadsticks: Add dried herbs like oregano, rosemary, or thyme to the dough for a herbed breadstick variation.
• Cinnamon-sugar breadsticks: Brush the baked breadsticks with butter, then sprinkle a cinnamon-sugar mixture for a sweet version.
• Stuffed breadsticks: Add cheese, pepperoni, or other fillings inside the breadsticks before baking for a fun stuffed option.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze unbaked, shaped breadsticks on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen. When ready to bake, let them rise at room temperature for 30-60 minutes before baking at 425°F for 13–15 minutes.
• Reheating: Reheat leftover breadsticks in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes or in the microwave for 20-30 seconds for a softer option.

FAQs

1. Can I use all bread flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can use bread flour for a chewier texture, but all-purpose flour works perfectly for soft, fluffy breadsticks.

2. Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but the texture may differ slightly. Make sure your yeast is gluten-free, as well.

3. How can I make these breadsticks fluffier?

Ensure your dough rises in a warm place for the correct amount of time, and avoid over-mixing. Adding a bit more oil or butter can also help with the texture.

4. Can I freeze these after baking?

Yes, baked breadsticks can be frozen and reheated. Store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 1 month. To reheat, warm them in the oven or microwave.

5. How can I make these breadsticks crispier?

For crispier breadsticks, bake them a little longer or increase the oven temperature to 450°F for the last 1-2 minutes. You can also add a light coating of olive oil before baking.

6. Can I add other toppings?

Yes, you can add parmesan cheese, crushed red pepper flakes, or herbs to the top for extra flavor. Experiment with different seasonings to suit your taste.

7. How do I know when the breadsticks are done?

The breadsticks should be golden brown on the top and firm to the touch. If they’re over-baked, they’ll become too hard. Keep a close eye on them in the final minutes of baking.

8. Can I use a stand mixer instead of hand-kneading the dough?

Yes, a stand mixer with the dough hook attachment is perfect for kneading the dough. It will save you time and effort.

9. How long should I let the dough rise?

Allow the dough to rise for 1 1/2 hours or until it doubles in size. A warm, draft-free area is ideal.

10. Can I make these breadsticks smaller?

Yes, you can divide the dough into smaller portions for mini breadsticks. Adjust the baking time slightly, as smaller breadsticks will bake faster.

Conclusion

These Olive Garden-style breadsticks are the perfect side to any meal, offering a soft, fluffy texture with a delicious garlic-butter topping. Whether served with pasta, soup, or on their own, they’re sure to impress your family or guests. Easy to make and even easier to eat, these homemade breadsticks are a must-try!

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