Soft, buttery, and garlicky, these homemade breadsticks taste just like the ones from Olive Garden. Perfect as a side for pasta, soups, or salads, they’re easy to make and irresistible warm from the oven!

Ingredients

For the Dough

1½ cups warm tap water (not boiling, up to 130°F / 55°C)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons dry yeast
4½ cups bread flour
2 teaspoons salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Topping

1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
¼ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon garlic granules

Instructions

Activate the yeast:
In a small bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for about 10 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy and bubbly.
Make the dough:
In a large bowl, mix the flour, melted butter, salt, and the yeast mixture. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Shape the breadsticks:
Divide the dough into 12 equal portions. Roll each portion into a rope. Place the ropes on a parchment-lined baking pan.
Let the dough rise:
Cover the breadsticks with a clean towel and let them rise in a warm place for 1 hour until puffy.
Bake:
Preheat the oven to 390°F (200°C) toward the end of the rise time. Bake the breadsticks for 15 minutes until golden.
Add the topping:
While still warm, brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with a mixture of salt and garlic granules. Serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Soft, fluffy interior with a slightly crisp exterior.
Garlic butter flavor just like the classic Olive Garden breadsticks.
Simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Perfect for any meal—from pasta night to soup or salad sides.
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly—make extra to store for later.

Tips

Make sure the water is warm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast.
Knead the dough until smooth and elastic for the best texture.
Let the breadsticks rise in a warm, draft-free area for fluffier results.
Brush with extra butter for richer flavor.
Serve immediately for the softest, warmest breadsticks.

Variations and Substitutions

Cheesy twist: Sprinkle shredded Parmesan or mozzarella on top before baking.
Herb flavor: Add dried Italian herbs or parsley to the garlic-salt mixture.
Whole wheat version: Substitute half of the bread flour with whole wheat flour.
Vegan option: Use plant-based butter instead of unsalted butter.

FAQs

Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dough and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours. Let it come to room temperature and rise before baking.

Can I freeze the breadsticks?
Absolutely! Freeze baked breadsticks in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven before serving.

What’s the best way to shape them?
Roll each dough ball into a 6–7 inch rope for traditional Olive Garden-sized breadsticks.

Can I make smaller breadsticks?
Yes! Simply divide the dough into more portions and reduce the baking time slightly.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve warm alongside pasta dishes like spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine.
Pair with soups and salads for a complete meal.
Offer a side of marinara or garlic dipping sauce for extra flavor.
Sprinkle with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs just before serving for a restaurant-style touch.