Olive Garden Breadsticks

Introduction

Olive Garden Breadsticks are warm, fluffy, and buttery, with just the right amount of garlic and seasoning. These breadsticks are a favorite for many, known for their soft, pillowy texture and savory flavor that perfectly complements any meal.

The first time I tried making these at home, the aroma alone transported me straight to the cozy ambiance of my favorite Italian restaurant. They turned out so irresistibly good that my family kept reaching for more before dinner was even served. What makes these breadsticks special is their versatility—you can enjoy them as a side for pasta, soup, or salad, or even as a snack on their own.

With this recipe, you can recreate the magic of Olive Garden right in your own kitchen. They’re surprisingly simple to make with basic pantry ingredients, and the buttery garlic topping takes them to the next level. Whether for a casual dinner or a special occasion, these breadsticks bring a comforting and irresistible touch to your meals.

Perfect for:

• Family dinners
• Holiday gatherings
• Italian-themed parties
• Soup and salad nights
• Bread lovers

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Breadsticks

Here’s why Olive Garden Breadsticks will become your go-to recipe:

• Soft and Pillowy Texture: These breadsticks are incredibly soft and fluffy on the inside, with just the right amount of chewiness.
• Garlicky and Buttery Flavor: A perfect combination of garlic and butter gives these breadsticks their signature flavor, making them irresistible.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is simple to follow and requires just a few basic ingredients, making it a great addition to any meal.
• Versatile: These breadsticks are perfect for serving alongside a variety of dishes, from pasta to soups and salads.
• Golden Brown Finish: The breadsticks bake to a beautiful golden-brown color, giving them a crispy outer texture that contrasts with the soft interior.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 2 hours
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Rising Time: 1 hour
• Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
• Servings: 12 breadsticks
• Calories per serving: Approximately 180-220 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 4g, Carbs: 35g, Fat: 6g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Olive Garden Breadsticks:

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Yeast: Active dry yeast helps the breadsticks rise, giving them that perfect soft and fluffy texture.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil adds richness and moisture to the dough, helping to achieve the perfect consistency.
• Butter: The melted butter is brushed on top of the breadsticks to add a golden finish and extra flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Garlic powder gives the breadsticks their signature garlicky flavor, making them perfect for pairing with Italian dishes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Olive Garden Breadsticks:

Prepare the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir gently and let it sit for about 5 minutes, until the yeast becomes frothy and activated.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Stir well to combine.
3. Add the Wet Ingredients: Pour the activated yeast mixture, olive oil, and garlic powder into the flour mixture. Stir until the dough begins to come together.
4. Knead the Dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic. If the dough is sticky, add a little more flour as needed.
5. First Rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it with a clean kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.

Shape and Bake the Breadsticks:

6. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
7. Shape the Dough: Punch down the dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Roll it out into a large rectangle (about 12 x 18 inches). Cut the dough into 12 equal strips using a pizza cutter or sharp knife.
8. Form the Breadsticks: Take each strip of dough and roll it into a long breadstick shape. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between each one.
9. Second Rise: Cover the breadsticks with a kitchen towel and let them rise for 15-20 minutes.
10. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown.
11. Brush with Butter: Once baked, brush the warm breadsticks with the melted butter. Optionally, sprinkle with fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

How to Serve Olive Garden Breadsticks

Olive Garden Breadsticks are perfect for serving in various ways:

• As a Side Dish: Serve these breadsticks alongside your favorite Italian dishes, like pasta, lasagna, or chicken Alfredo.
• With Soup and Salad: They pair wonderfully with a bowl of soup or a fresh salad for a comforting meal.
• For Appetizers: Serve these breadsticks as an appetizer with marinara sauce or garlic butter for dipping.
• With Dips: These breadsticks are great for dipping into creamy dips or sauces, such as ranch or cheese dip.

Additional Tips for Olive Garden Breadsticks

Here are some tips to ensure your Olive Garden Breadsticks are perfect every time:

• Activate the Yeast Properly: Make sure your water is not too hot, as it can kill the yeast. It should be warm, about 110°F (45°C).
• Don’t Overwork the Dough: Knead the dough just until it becomes smooth and elastic. Overworking it can result in tough breadsticks.
• Check for Doneness: The breadsticks should be golden brown on the outside. If you tap them, they should sound hollow.
• Brush with Butter Twice: For extra flavor, brush the breadsticks with butter both before and after baking.
• Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.

Recipe Variations for Olive Garden Breadsticks

Here are 10 variations you can try for Olive Garden Breadsticks:

• Cheesy Breadsticks: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or parmesan cheese on top of the breadsticks before baking for a cheesy twist.
• Garlic Parmesan Breadsticks: After brushing the breadsticks with butter, sprinkle grated parmesan cheese and extra garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
• Cinnamon Sugar Breadsticks: For a sweet treat, brush the baked breadsticks with butter and sprinkle with a mixture of cinnamon and sugar.
• Herb-Infused Breadsticks: Add dried herbs like oregano, thyme, or rosemary to the dough for an extra burst of flavor.
• Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Substitute part or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier alternative.
• Stuffed Breadsticks: Fill the dough with cheese, pepperoni, or other fillings before rolling them into breadsticks for a fun variation.
• Vegan Breadsticks: Use olive oil instead of butter and plant-based milk to make these breadsticks vegan-friendly.
• Gluten-Free Breadsticks: Replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
• Spicy Breadsticks: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños to the dough for a spicy kick.
• Breadstick Knots: Instead of rolling the dough into strips, tie them into knots for a fun shape.

Freezing and Storage for Olive Garden Breadsticks

• Freezing: You can freeze the dough for later use. After the first rise, shape the breadsticks and place them on a baking sheet in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Bake from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Storage: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To keep them fresh, reheat in the oven before serving.

Special Equipment for Olive Garden Breadsticks

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Olive Garden Breadsticks easier:

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the dough ingredients.
• Pizza Cutter or Knife: For cutting the dough into strips.
• Baking Sheet: To bake the breadsticks on.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Mat: To prevent the breadsticks from sticking to the baking sheet.
• Basting Brush: To brush the melted butter on the baked breadsticks.
• Wire Rack: To cool the breadsticks evenly after baking.

Frequently Asked Questions for Olive Garden Breadsticks

1. Can I use active dry yeast instead of instant yeast?
   Yes, you can use active dry yeast in place of instant yeast. Just activate it in warm water before adding it to the dough.
2. Can I make these breadsticks ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and let it rise in the fridge overnight. Shape and bake the breadsticks the next day.
3. How can I make these breadsticks garlic-free?
   Simply omit the garlic powder from the recipe. You can substitute with other herbs or seasonings for flavor.
4. Can I make these breadsticks without butter?
   Yes, you can substitute the butter with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative if needed.

Print

Conclusion

Olive Garden Breadsticks are a comforting and indulgent addition to any meal. With their soft, pillowy texture and buttery, garlicky flavor, they’re a crowd-pleaser that brings restaurant-quality breadsticks straight to your kitchen. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy the iconic Olive Garden experience at home, creating a warm, fresh side dish that pairs perfectly with pasta, soup, or salad.

This recipe is as simple as it is delicious, making it a go-to for everything from weeknight dinners to special gatherings. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them yourself, these breadsticks are sure to delight with every bite.

I’d love to see how your Olive Garden Breadsticks turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and don’t forget to tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creations. Happy baking!