Name: Olive Garden Breadsticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 14 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet); 2 tbsp granulated sugar; 1 tsp salt; 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C); 2 tbsp olive oil; 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; Pinch of salt (for topping)

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I love making these Olive Garden–style breadsticks when I want something warm, soft, and irresistibly comforting straight from my own oven. They have that fluffy interior and lightly crisp exterior that makes them perfect for dipping into soups, sauces, or enjoying all on their own. I often bake these when I want to recreate that cozy restaurant feeling at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I like this recipe because the breadsticks turn out pillowy soft with a buttery garlic finish that’s hard to resist. I enjoy how simple the ingredients are and how approachable the process feels, even for beginner bakers. I also appreciate that they’re best served warm, which makes them feel extra special right out of the oven. Olive Garden Breadsticks

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

All-purpose flour
Instant yeast
Granulated sugar
Salt
Warm water
Olive oil
Unsalted butter
Garlic powder

Directions

I start by mixing the warm water, sugar, and yeast in a bowl and letting it sit until foamy. I stir in olive oil, salt, and flour until a soft dough forms. I knead the dough until smooth, then place it in a lightly oiled bowl and let it rise until doubled in size.

Once risen, I divide the dough into equal portions and roll each piece into a breadstick shape. I place them on a lined baking sheet, cover them, and let them rise again briefly.

I bake the breadsticks in a preheated 400°F (205°C) oven for about 12 to 14 minutes, until lightly golden. As soon as they come out of the oven, I brush them generously with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of salt.

Servings And Timing

I usually get 12 breadsticks from this recipe.

Prep time: 15 minutes
Rising time: 1 hour
Bake time: 12 to 14 minutes
Total time: about 1 hour and 30 minutes

Variations

I sometimes add a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese or Italian seasoning to the butter topping for extra flavor. When I want a softer crust, I brush the breadsticks with butter both before and after baking. I also enjoy making smaller breadsticks for appetizers or larger ones for dipping.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. To reheat, I warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes or microwave briefly to soften them. Olive Garden Breadsticks

FAQs

Can I Make The Dough Ahead Of Time?

I often prepare the dough ahead and let it rise in the refrigerator overnight.

Why Are My Breadsticks Not As Soft?

I find this usually happens if too much flour was added or if they were overbaked.

Can I Freeze Breadsticks?

I freeze baked breadsticks for up to 2 months and reheat them in the oven.

Do I Need A Stand Mixer?

I make these by hand regularly, and the dough is very manageable.

Can I Add Garlic Butter Instead?

I sometimes mix fresh garlic into the melted butter for a stronger garlic flavor.

Conclusion

I love these Olive Garden–style breadsticks because they bring that familiar, comforting taste into my own kitchen. Soft, buttery, and full of flavor, they’re a recipe I come back to whenever I want a simple bread that everyone enjoys.

Olive Garden Breadsticks

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Author: lina
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Yield: 12 breadsticks
Category: Bread
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

These Olive Garden–style breadsticks are soft, fluffy, and brushed with buttery garlic goodness. Perfect for pairing with soups, pastas, or enjoying as a cozy snack straight from the oven.

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
2 1/4 tsp instant yeast (1 packet)
2 tbsp granulated sugar
1 tsp salt
1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Pinch of salt (for topping)

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Instructions

In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Stir in olive oil, salt, and flour until a dough forms. Knead for 6–8 minutes until smooth.
Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Divide dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each into a breadstick shape and place on a lined baking sheet.
Cover and let rise again for 15–20 minutes while preheating oven to 400°F (205°C).
Bake for 12–14 minutes until lightly golden.
Immediately brush with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and a pinch of salt.
Serve warm for best flavor and texture.