Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

I have a little confession to make: Olive Garden’s breadsticks are my weakness. Every time I’d sit down at the restaurant, I’d tell myself, “Just one breadstick before dinner.” But of course, one turned into three, and sometimes I’d take a few extras home. That soft, buttery, garlicky goodness is just too hard to resist.

When I first decided to recreate them at home, I wasn’t prepared for the learning curve. My first attempt came out way too dense because I didn’t let the dough rise long enough. The second time, I went heavy on the garlic salt topping (let’s just say my family still reminds me of “the garlic bomb incident”). But after a few tweaks, I finally perfected a recipe that captures everything I love about those famous breadsticks: soft and fluffy centers, a golden crust, and just the right amount of buttery garlic topping.

If you’ve ever dreamed of filling your kitchen with the smell of fresh-baked breadsticks, this is the recipe for you.

Ingredients

1 ½ cups warm water (about 110°F / 45°C)
2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast (1 packet)
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
4 cups all-purpose flour (plus more for dusting)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
1 tablespoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for brushing after baking)
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt

Substitute Ideas:

Dairy-free: Use vegan butter or olive oil instead of regular butter.
Gluten-free: Swap with a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
Budget-friendly: Margarine works in place of butter for the topping.
Healthier option: Use half whole wheat flour for extra fiber (breadsticks will be slightly denser).

Instructions / Method

Activate the Yeast
- In a small bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Stir and let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. (If it doesn’t foam, your yeast may have expired.)
Make the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, softened butter, and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture. Mix until the dough starts to come together.
Knead the Dough
- Transfer to a lightly floured surface and knead for 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic. (I learned the hard way that under-kneading makes breadsticks too crumbly.)
First Rise
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm spot for 1–1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Shape the Breadsticks
- Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a rope about 7–8 inches long and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Second Rise
- Cover the shaped breadsticks with a clean towel and let rise for 30–45 minutes. They should look slightly puffed.
Bake
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake breadsticks for 12–14 minutes, or until lightly golden.
Buttery Garlic Topping
- While still warm, brush breadsticks generously with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and salt. Don’t skimp here — it’s what makes them irresistible!

@slowroasted

Preparation & Cooking Time

Total time: ~2 hours 30 minutes (includes rising)
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 12–14 minutes
Serving size: 12 breadsticks

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with marinara sauce for dipping.
Pair with a hearty pasta dish like lasagna or fettuccine alfredo.
They’re also perfect with soups and salads for a lighter meal.

Storage & Reheating:

Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
To reheat, wrap in foil and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes.
You can also freeze baked breadsticks — just reheat straight from frozen in the oven.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can shape the breadsticks, cover them, and refrigerate them overnight. The next day, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep them in an airtight container or resealable bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them.

Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely. Bake the breadsticks first, let them cool, then freeze. Reheat in the oven for a few minutes to bring them back to life.

What’s the best substitute for butter?

Olive oil or vegan butter works well. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.

How can I make it healthier?

Use half whole wheat flour, reduce the butter topping slightly, or serve with a lighter dipping sauce like olive oil with herbs.

A Note from My Table to Yours

These breadsticks are more than just a side dish in my kitchen — they’ve become a family tradition. Every time I make them, the smell alone brings everyone to the table before I even call them.

I know making bread at home can feel intimidating, but trust me — if I can get past my early “garlic bomb” and dense-dough disasters, so can you. Once you pull these golden breadsticks from the oven and brush them with that buttery garlic glaze, you’ll realize it was worth every minute.

So go ahead, bake a batch, and watch them disappear faster than you thought possible. From my kitchen to yours, I hope these breadsticks bring warmth and joy to your table just like they do to mine.