There’s nothing quite like the aroma of freshly baked Olive Garden garlic breadsticks wafting through your home. These fluffy, buttery breadsticks are truly irresistible and a perfect addition to any Italian meal, satisfying your cravings for restaurant-quality bread from the comfort of your kitchen.
I remember the first time I tried to replicate these iconic breadsticks at home. It was a rainy Sunday afternoon, and the inviting scent of garlic and warm bread in the oven made the weather seem inconsequential. My family gathered eagerly around the table, dipping the breadsticks into marinara sauce and sharing stories. These moments made the recipe all the more special and a staple in our household.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Restaurant-style at home: Enjoy the same soft and buttery texture that you love from Olive Garden.
Simple ingredients: Made with ingredients that are likely already in your pantry.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether for a family dinner or a party, these breadsticks always impress.
Ingredients Notes
The magic begins with basic pantry staples: flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. For an authentic taste, use unsalted butter and fresh garlic for the topping. Feel free to swap out the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a healthier twist, keeping in mind it’ll slightly change the texture.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Mix and knead the dough: Combine warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl. Let it sit until frothy. Add in flour and salt, and knead until smooth, about 10 minutes.
Step 2
First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size, around 1 hour.
Step 3
Shape the breadsticks: Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 pieces. Roll each piece into 9-inch logs and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Step 4
Second rise: Cover the shaped dough and let it rise again for about 20 minutes. This ensures a light, airy breadstick.
Step 5
Bake and add garlic butter: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Immediately brush them with melted butter mixed with minced garlic and a pinch of salt.
Storage Options
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, freeze them individually wrapped in plastic wrap and a layer of foil. Reheat directly from frozen in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes or until warm.
Variations & Substitutions
- Herbed variation: Add Italian herbs to the garlic butter for an aromatic twist.
- Cheesy option: Sprinkle grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese before the second rise.
- Vegan version: Substitute butter with vegan margarine and use a plant-based milk wash.
Serving Suggestions
These breadsticks are a fantastic accompaniment to pasta dishes such as spaghetti, or as appetizers alongside a variety of dips like hummus or marinara sauce. They’re also a hit at potlucks and family gatherings, adding a touch of homemade goodness to any spread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare the dough in advance? Yes, you can make the dough a day ahead. Store it covered in the refrigerator after shaping them into breadsticks. Allow them some time to come to room temperature before baking.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic? Substitute with garlic powder in the butter topping. Use about 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for every clove of fresh garlic to maintain a robust flavor.
How can I ensure my breadsticks are soft? To keep the breadsticks soft, do not overbake them. Check them a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Cover them with a clean kitchen towel after they come out of the oven to retain moisture as they cool.
Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2.5 cups all-purpose flour sifted
- 1 packet instant yeast or 2 1/4 teaspoons
- 3 tablespoons sugar
- 1 cup warm water 110°F
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon parsley dried or fresh
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, mix the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add the warm water and melted butter. Knead the dough until smooth.
- Cover the dough with a damp cloth and let it rise in a warm place until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Shape the dough into 8-inch long breadsticks and place on a baking sheet.
- Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and parsley.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
