Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe

Introduction

If you crave impossibly soft, garlicky, and buttery breadsticks just like the ones from Olive Garden, this copycat recipe is for you. These homemade breadsticks are pillowy on the inside and lightly crisp on the outside, making them an irresistible addition to any meal. The secret lies in the balance of flavor and the aromatic garlic butter glaze that turns a simple breadstick into a showstopper.

Whether you’re serving these alongside pasta, salad, or simply enjoying them on their own, these breadsticks will wow guests and family alike—the “bottomless basket” magic is now yours to recreate at home.

Why This Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat Works

The genius of this recipe lies in its simplicity: basic pantry staples transform into a restaurant-quality side. The breadsticks emerge from the oven soft and golden, brushing up with garlicky butter right when they’re hot makes every bite taste freshly made. Unlike some recipes, this version uses just enough sugar and oil for that subtle sweetness and softness, and you can make them ahead to keep mealtime stress-free.

Essential Tools for Flawless Breadsticks

While this recipe is approachable for all skill levels, a few tools make it even easier. For accurate dough measurements, use an Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display, Black and Stainless Steel—precision ensures ultra-consistent results. When portioning your dough, a Lodge 10.25 Inch Cast Iron Pre-Seasoned Skillet, Black (if you prefer skillet-baked breadsticks) or a lined sheet pan both promote even browning.

To keep your breadsticks from sticking and make cleanup a breeze, line your baking sheet with a piece of Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet. And when brushing on that signature garlic butter, use a dedicated pastry brush or a small silicone brush for the best finish.

Homemade Garlic Butter Glaze

The soul of Olive Garden’s breadsticks is their iconic garlic butter. Melt unsalted butter, stir in garlic powder and a pinch of salt, then brush generously right after baking. You can also add a sprinkle of grated parmesan for an extra indulgent touch, especially if you love cheesy breadsticks.

The glaze soaks in while breadsticks are still warm, locking in both flavor and softness. For a perfect buttery finish every time, melt your butter over low heat and brush just before serving.

Serving, Storing, and Reheating Breadsticks

Serve these breadsticks warm from the oven, nestled in a basket lined with a Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloths, 6-Pack, Dark Grey to keep them soft and hot. For make-ahead ease, store cooled breadsticks in an airtight Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) at room temperature for up to two days.

To reheat, pop breadsticks into a COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey at 300°F for 2–3 minutes or back into a warm oven for 5 minutes, restoring that fresh-baked taste and texture.

Nutritional Information and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 12 breadsticks. Each breadstick contains roughly 140 calories, depending on the amount of butter used for finishing. They’re best enjoyed as a treat alongside your favorite Italian meal.

The Perfect Copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks (Recap)

This easy copycat breadstick recipe delivers the soft, salty, and buttery flavor Olive Garden fans know and love. By making your own at home, you enjoy fresher breadsticks for a fraction of the cost—perfect for family dinners, parties, or anytime you crave comfort food.

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, melted butter, and olive oil. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 8-10 minutes (by hand or with a stand mixer’s dough hook) until smooth. Use your Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display, Black and Stainless Steel for accurate measurement if needed.
4. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise in a warm place until doubled, about 1 hour.
5. Line a baking sheet with Reynolds Kitchens Brown Parchment Paper Roll, 45 Square Feet.
6. Punch down dough. Divide into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 7-inch breadstick and arrange on the lined baking sheet.
7. Cover loosely and let rise 20–30 minutes, until puffy.
8. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake breadsticks for 11–13 minutes, or until lightly golden.
9. Meanwhile, melt butter for glaze and mix in garlic powder and salt.
10. Brush hot breadsticks generously with garlic butter glaze. Optionally, sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
11. Serve warm, wrapped in a Homaxy 100% Cotton Waffle Weave Kitchen Dish Cloths, 6-Pack, Dark Grey or in a napkin-lined basket.
12. Store any leftovers in a Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) and reheat as needed.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus rise)
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

Enjoy the ultimate copycat Olive Garden Breadsticks—plush, garlicky, and guaranteed to please!