The delightful aroma of freshly baked breadsticks can instantly transport you to your favorite Italian restaurant. If you’ve ever wondered how to recreate those Olive Garden Breadsticks at home, you’re in luck! This recipe will walk you through creating these soft, buttery breadsticks that pair perfectly with any meal.
Growing up, Sunday dinners at Grandma’s were a cherished tradition. She had a knack for making simple meals feel special, and her homemade breadsticks were always the star of the show. Inspired by Olive Garden’s famous version, she would lovingly knead the dough while sharing stories from her own childhood. Now, each time I bake these breadsticks, I am reminded of her warm kitchen and the love she infused into every dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a game-changer for bread enthusiasts and home cooks alike. Not only are these breadsticks incredibly soft and buttery, but they’re also quite easy to make. You’ll enjoy the wonderful aromas filling your kitchen as they bake. Perfect for any occasion, these breadsticks can elevate a casual dinner to a delightful dining experience.
Ingredients Notes
For the best results, use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Opt for bread flour instead of all-purpose flour for a chewier texture. If you’re out of honey, sugar makes a fine substitute. And don’t forget the garlic powder for that authentic Olive Garden flavor.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by dissolving the yeast in warm water and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it becomes frothy.
Step 2
Mix in the flour, sugar, and salt, and knead the dough for about 10 minutes until it becomes smooth and elastic.
Step 3
Form the dough into a ball and let it rise in a greased bowl, covered, for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
Step 4
Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces and roll them into sticks. Place on a lined baking sheet and let them rise for 20 minutes.
Step 5
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder and salt. Bake for 12-15 minutes until golden brown.
Storage Options
To store leftovers, wrap the breadsticks in aluminum foil and keep them at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze them in a resealable bag for up to a month. When ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warm.
Variations & Substitutions
If you’d like a healthier version, substitute whole wheat flour for half of the bread flour. For a cheesy twist, sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese over the dough before baking. Or, for a kick of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the butter mixture.
Serving Suggestions
These breadsticks are perfect for serving with a hearty Italian meal, such as pasta or lasagna. They’re also great appetizers, paired with a marinara or alfredo dipping sauce. For a light lunch, serve them alongside a caesar salad.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use all-purpose flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour. However, the texture will be slightly less chewy. Bread flour contains more protein, which helps create the elastic texture of these breadsticks.
- Can I make the dough ahead of time?
Absolutely! After kneading the dough, cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, let the dough come to room temperature, then proceed with step 3.
- What dipping sauces pair well with these breadsticks?
These breadsticks are delicious with a variety of dipping sauces. Marinara, alfredo, and garlic butter are classic choices. Pesto or a spicy arrabbiata sauce also make excellent accompaniments.
There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of pulling a golden batch of homemade breadsticks out of the oven. Whether you’re aiming to impress dinner guests or simply indulge in a cozy evening at home, these Olive Garden-style breadsticks will certainly become a household favorite.
Olive Garden Breadsticks Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons or 1 packet
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter melted
- 1.5 cups warm water 105-110°F
- 2 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil for greasing
- 1 tbsp garlic powder for topping
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, dissolve yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
- Add the flour and salt to the yeast mixture, stirring to combine. Knead the dough for about 8 minutes until smooth.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled, about 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Shape the dough into 16 equal breadsticks and place them on a baking sheet.
- Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle with garlic powder.
- Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. Brush with more melted butter if desired.
