Olive Garden Breadstick Copycat Recipe: Easy Steps for Delicious Homemade Breadsticks

Whenever I visit Olive Garden, I can’t resist their warm, buttery breadsticks. Their soft texture and rich flavor make them the perfect start to any meal. I’ve often found myself craving that comforting taste long after leaving the restaurant.

Determined to bring this classic Italian favorite into my kitchen, I developed a copycat recipe that’s just as delicious. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy homemade breadsticks that rival the originals. Let’s dive into creating this beloved side dish right at home.

Ingredients

To craft these irresistible Olive Garden-inspired breadsticks, gather the following ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect, fluffy texture and savory flavor.

• 2 ¼ teaspoons active dry yeast

Ensure your yeast is fresh for optimal rise.

• 1 cup warm water (110°F/43°C)

Warm water activates the yeast without killing it.

• 2 tablespoons sugar

Feeds the yeast and adds a subtle sweetness.

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Adds richness to the dough.

• 1 teaspoon salt

Enhances the overall flavor.

• 3 ½ cups all-purpose flour

Provides the structure for the breadsticks.

• 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

For that classic Olive Garden cheesy touch.

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Infuses the breadsticks with aromatic flavor.

• 2 tablespoons dried parsley

Adds color and a hint of herbiness.

• Extra melted butter for brushing

Gives the breadsticks their signature buttery finish.

• Optional: ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

For an extra burst of garlic flavor.

With these ingredients at hand, you’re ready to embark on creating homemade breadsticks that rival those served at Olive Garden. Let’s move on to the preparation steps to bring these delightful sticks to life in your kitchen.

Tools and Equipment

To craft these irresistible Olive Garden-style breadsticks, I rely on a few essential tools and equipment that make the process smooth and enjoyable:

• Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes helps me effortlessly combine and mix the dough ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements for flour, sugar, yeast, and spices are crucial for the perfect texture and flavor.
• Stand Mixer or Hand Mixer: Using a stand mixer makes kneading the dough a breeze, ensuring it’s smooth and elastic.
• Baking Sheet: This provides a sturdy surface for shaping and baking the breadsticks evenly.
• Parchment Paper or Silicone Baking Mat: Prevents the breadsticks from sticking to the baking sheet, making cleanup easy.
• Pastry Brush: Essential for spreading the garlicky butter topping evenly over each breadstick.
• Oven: Baking is where everything comes together, turning the dough into golden, fluffy breadsticks.
• Cooling Rack: Allows the breadsticks to cool properly, maintaining their soft interior without becoming soggy.

Having these tools on hand ensures that you can recreate the warm, buttery goodness of Olive Garden’s breadsticks right in your own kitchen.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Preparing your Olive Garden copycat breadsticks ahead of time can save you valuable time and ensure you always have this delightful treat on hand. Follow these steps to make your breadsticks in advance, whether you’re planning for a busy weeknight or a special gathering.

Refrigerate the Dough Overnight

One of the best ways to prepare your breadsticks ahead of time is by making the dough the night before.

1. Prepare the Dough:

• Follow the recipe to mix and knead your breadstick dough until it’s smooth and elastic.

1. First Rise:

• Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and let it rise at room temperature for about 1 hour.

1. Refrigerate:

• After the initial rise, punch down the dough to release any air bubbles.
• Transfer the dough to an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator.
• Tip: The dough can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours.

1. Next Day:

• Remove the dough from the refrigerator about 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.
• Proceed with shaping and baking as per the recipe instructions.

Freeze the Dough for Longer Storage

If you want to prepare your breadsticks well in advance, freezing the dough is an excellent option.

1. Prepare and First Rise:

• Follow the recipe to mix, knead, and let the dough rise for the first time.

1. Freeze:

• After the first rise, punch down the dough and divide it into portions if desired.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe resealable bag.
• Label the bags with the date.
• Freezing Duration: The dough can be frozen for up to 3 months.

1. Thawing:

• Remove the dough from the freezer and place it in the refrigerator overnight to thaw.
• On the day of baking, let the dough sit at room temperature for about 1 hour before shaping.

Baking from Make-Ahead Dough

When you’re ready to bake your breadsticks from refrigerated or frozen dough, follow these steps to ensure they turn out perfectly.

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to the temperature specified in the recipe, usually around 375°F (190°C).

1. Shape the Breadsticks:

• Divide the thawed or refrigerated dough into equal portions.
• Roll each portion into a long, thin strip on a lightly floured surface.

1. Second Rise:

• Place the shaped dough onto a prepared baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Cover the breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 20-30 minutes until they puff up slightly.

1. Bake:

• Brush the breadsticks with melted butter and sprinkle them with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and dried parsley as per the recipe.
• Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.

1. Serve or Store:

• Serve the warm breadsticks immediately or let them cool completely.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Quick Reference Table

By following these make-ahead instructions, you can enjoy freshly baked Olive Garden-style breadsticks anytime without the hassle of starting from scratch.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your own Olive Garden-style breadsticks at home. Each stage is crafted to ensure your breadsticks turn out perfectly every time.

Prepare the Dough

1. In a small bowl, dissolve 2 teaspoons of active dry yeast and 1 teaspoon of sugar in 1 cup of warm water. Let it sit for 5 minutes until frothy.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine 3 ½ cups of all-purpose flour and 1 teaspoon of salt.
3. Add ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter to the flour mixture.
4. Pour the yeast mixture into the flour and butter. Mix until a dough forms.
5. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Let the Dough Rise

1. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl. Cover it with a clean kitchen towel.
2. Let it rise in a warm spot for 1 hour or until it has doubled in size.

Shape the Breadsticks

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
2. Punch down the risen dough and transfer it to the prepared baking sheet.
3. Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough into a rectangle about ½ inch thick.
4. Cut the dough into 12 equal strips, each approximately 4 inches long.
5. Twist each strip a few times and place them evenly spaced on the baking sheet.

Bake the Breadsticks

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-18 minutes or until golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let them cool slightly on a cooling rack.

Prepare the Garlic Butter

1. In a small saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over medium heat.
2. Add 2 teaspoons of garlic powder and 1 tablespoon of dried parsley. Stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.

Brush and Serve

1. Using a pastry brush, generously apply the garlic butter mixture to each warm breadstick.
2. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese while still hot.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, buttery goodness just like at Olive Garden.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Keeping your breadsticks fresh is easy with these storage and reheating methods.

Storing Breadsticks

• Room Temperature: I store breadsticks in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag at room temperature. They stay fresh for up to 2 days. Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, place the breadsticks in an airtight container and refrigerate. They keep well for up to one week.
• Freezing: To freeze breadsticks, arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Transfer the frozen breadsticks to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Breadsticks

• Oven Method: I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the breadsticks on a baking sheet and warm them for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave Method: Wrap a breadstick in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 20-30 seconds. This method is quick but may result in a softer texture.
• Toaster Oven: Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C), place the breadsticks inside, and heat for about 10 minutes.

By following these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your homemade breadsticks fresh and delicious anytime.

Conclusion

These breadsticks have quickly become a favorite in my kitchen They capture the warm buttery flavor I love from Olive Garden right at home Making them was fun and satisfying I hope you enjoy baking and sharing them as much as I do

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special gathering these breadsticks are sure to impress They’re easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion So grab your ingredients and get baking I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out