Make the famous soft, buttery, and fluffy breadsticks right at home. This easy recipe delivers the ultimate Olive Garden copycat experience with a rich garlic parmesan topping, perfect for any dinner side dish or appetizer.
Author:Ahazzam
Prep Time:20 min
Cook Time:12 min
Total Time:1 hour 32 min
Yield:12 breadsticks
Category:Side Dish
Method:Baking
Cuisine:Italian-American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (105-115°F)
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for greasing
1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
Mix the dough: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour and salt. Pour in the yeast mixture and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5 to 7 minutes until the dough is smooth and elastic.
First rise: Lightly grease a large bowl with olive oil. Place the dough in the bowl, turning to coat. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until doubled in size.
Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
Shape the breadsticks: Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin breadstick shape, about 10 to 12 inches long. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between them.
Second rise (optional but recommended): Cover the shaped breadsticks loosely and let them rest for 15 minutes while the oven finishes preheating.
Bake: Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the breadsticks are lightly golden brown.
Prepare the topping: While the breadsticks bake, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and dried parsley in a small bowl.
Brush and finish: Immediately after removing the breadsticks from the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle evenly with the grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve: Serve your homemade breadsticks warm as a dinner side dish or appetizer.
Notes
For extra soft and fluffy breadsticks, ensure your water temperature for the yeast is correct—too hot will kill the yeast.
If you want a quicker version, you can skip the second 15-minute rest after shaping.
These breadsticks are perfect for dipping sauce; have your favorite marinara ready!