Olive Garden Breadsticks: The Ultimate Guide to Copycat Recipes

Olive Garden Breadsticks, those warm, pillowy clouds of garlicky goodness, are more than just a side dish; they’re an experience! Have you ever found yourself at Olive Garden, eagerly anticipating the arrival of that bread basket, practically inhaling the aroma before even taking a bite? I know I have! There’s just something undeniably comforting and craveable about them.

While the exact origins of breadsticks can be traced back to Italy, Olive Garden’s version has become a uniquely American phenomenon. They’ve achieved iconic status, representing a symbol of unlimited hospitality and a warm welcome. These aren’t your average, crusty Italian breadsticks; they’re soft, slightly chewy, and generously coated in garlic butter and a sprinkle of salt.

People adore Olive Garden Breadsticks for their irresistible combination of textures and flavors. The soft, yielding interior gives way to a slightly crisp exterior, creating a delightful contrast in every bite. The savory garlic butter, perfectly balanced with a hint of salt, elevates the simple bread to something truly special. Plus, let’s be honest, the unlimited supply adds to the allure! Whether you’re dipping them in soup, using them to soak up pasta sauce, or simply enjoying them on their own, these breadsticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And now, you can recreate that Olive Garden magic right in your own kitchen with this easy-to-follow recipe!

Ingredients:

• For the Dough:
• 2 1/4 cups warm water (105-115°F)
• 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 6 1/2 – 7 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• For the Garlic Butter Topping:
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
• 2 tablespoons garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon dried parsley

Preparing the Dough:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a large bowl (or the bowl of your stand mixer), combine the warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the yeast is foamy. This step is crucial! If the yeast doesn’t foam, it’s likely dead, and you’ll need to start over with fresh yeast. The foam indicates that the yeast is alive and ready to leaven the dough.
2. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Add the salt and 3 tablespoons of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Gradually add the flour, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition. If using a stand mixer, use the dough hook attachment. If mixing by hand, use a sturdy spoon or your hands.
3. Knead the Dough: Once the dough starts to come together, turn it out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic. If using a stand mixer, knead with the dough hook for 6-8 minutes. The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour, one tablespoon at a time. Don’t add too much flour, or the breadsticks will be dense.
4. First Rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with the remaining 3 tablespoons of olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel. Let the dough rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until doubled in size. A warm place helps the yeast work its magic. I like to put mine in a slightly warmed oven (turned off, of course!).

Shaping the Breadsticks:

1. Punch Down the Dough: Once the dough has doubled, gently punch it down to release the air. Turn it out onto a lightly floured surface.
2. Divide the Dough: Divide the dough into 24 equal pieces. I find it easiest to cut the dough in half, then each half in half again, and so on, until you have 24 pieces. You can also use a kitchen scale to ensure each piece is roughly the same size.
3. Shape the Breadsticks: Roll each piece of dough into a long, thin rope, about 8-10 inches long. Try to keep the thickness consistent along the entire length of the breadstick. If the dough keeps shrinking back, let it rest for a few minutes before rolling it again.
4. Arrange on Baking Sheets: Place the shaped breadsticks on two baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Leave about an inch of space between each breadstick.
5. Second Rise: Cover the baking sheets with plastic wrap or clean kitchen towels. Let the breadsticks rise for another 20-30 minutes. This second rise is important for creating light and airy breadsticks.

Baking the Breadsticks:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Make sure your oven is fully preheated before baking the breadsticks.
2. Bake: Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes, or until they are golden brown. Keep a close eye on them, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.

Preparing the Garlic Butter Topping:

1. Melt the Butter: While the breadsticks are baking, melt the butter in a small saucepan or in the microwave.
2. Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, salt, oregano, and parsley. Mix well to combine.

Finishing Touches:

1. Brush with Garlic Butter: As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter topping. Make sure to get every nook and cranny!
2. Serve Immediately: Serve the breadsticks immediately. They are best enjoyed warm and fresh. These are amazing with soup, salad, or just on their own!

Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Breadsticks:

• Water Temperature: The water temperature is crucial for activating the yeast. It should be warm, but not too hot. If the water is too hot, it will kill the yeast.
• Don’t Overknead: Overkneading can result in tough breadsticks. Knead until the dough is smooth and elastic, but not overly stiff.
• Proper Rising: Make sure the dough rises properly in a warm place. This will ensure that the breadsticks are light and airy.
• Garlic Powder vs. Fresh Garlic: While fresh garlic might seem like a good idea, garlic powder is key to achieving that authentic Olive Garden flavor. Fresh garlic can burn easily in the oven.
• Salt Content: Don’t be afraid of the salt! It’s essential for flavor and helps to control the yeast.
• Adjust Flour as Needed: The amount of flour needed may vary depending on the humidity and the type of flour you use. Add flour gradually until the dough is slightly tacky but not sticky.
• Parchment Paper is Your Friend: Lining your baking sheets with parchment paper will prevent the breadsticks from sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
• Don’t Overbake: Overbaked breadsticks will be dry and hard. Bake until they are golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
• Generous Garlic Butter: Don’t skimp on the garlic butter! It’s what makes these breadsticks so irresistible.
• Serving Suggestions: Serve these breadsticks with your favorite Italian dishes, such as pasta, soup, or salad. They are also delicious on their own as a snack.

Variations:

• Cheese Breadsticks: Sprinkle the breadsticks with grated Parmesan cheese before baking.
• Herb Breadsticks: Add other dried herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, to the garlic butter topping.
• Spicy Breadsticks: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic butter topping for a little heat.
• Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

Storage Instructions:

• Room Temperature: Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the breadsticks in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes, or until warmed through.

Conclusion:

This Olive Garden Breadsticks recipe isn’t just another bread recipe; it’s a portal to warm, garlicky comfort, a taste of nostalgia, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. I truly believe that once you experience the pillowy softness and savory flavor of these homemade breadsticks, you’ll understand why I’m so passionate about sharing it. They’re incredibly easy to make, require minimal ingredients, and deliver maximum satisfaction. Forget those store-bought imitations – this is the real deal, and it’s waiting for you to bring it to life in your own kitchen. Why is this a must-try? Because it’s more than just bread. It’s an experience. It’s the aroma filling your home, the satisfying chew of the dough, and the delighted faces of your family and friends as they devour every last crumb. It’s a simple pleasure that elevates any meal, from a casual weeknight dinner to a special occasion feast. Plus, let’s be honest, who can resist a warm, garlicky breadstick? But the best part? The versatility! While these breadsticks are divine on their own, they also pair perfectly with a variety of dishes. Imagine dipping them into a steaming bowl of tomato soup, using them to soak up the rich sauce of your favorite pasta dish, or serving them alongside a vibrant salad. For a truly authentic Olive Garden experience, serve them with their signature salad and a generous helping of Alfredo sauce. Serving Suggestions and Variations: * Garlic Butter Boost: For an extra punch of garlic flavor, add a clove or two of minced garlic directly to the melted butter before brushing it on the baked breadsticks. * Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs! Rosemary, thyme, or oregano would all be delicious additions to the dough or the garlic butter. * Cheesy Goodness: Sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the breadsticks before baking for a cheesy, savory twist. * Sweet Treat: For a sweet variation, brush the baked breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon sugar. * Pizza Crust: Press the dough into a pizza pan and bake for a delicious homemade pizza crust. * Breadstick Bites: Cut the dough into smaller pieces before baking for bite-sized breadstick appetizers. * Stuffed Breadsticks: Before baking, flatten the dough and fill it with cheese, pepperoni, or other desired fillings. Roll it up and bake as usual. I’m confident that you’ll love this recipe as much as I do. It’s a simple, satisfying, and utterly delicious way to bring a little bit of Olive Garden magic into your own home. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to bake up a batch of these irresistible breadsticks. Don’t be shy! I encourage you to try this recipe and share your experience. Let me know in the comments how they turned out, what variations you tried, and what dishes you paired them with. I’m always eager to hear your feedback and see your culinary creations. Happy baking, and enjoy your homemade Olive Garden Breadsticks! I can’t wait to hear all about your breadstick adventures! Print