The Cozy Comfort of Olive Garden Breadsticks

There’s something deeply nostalgic about Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat—a dish that stirs up warm memories of family dinners, first dates, and cozy nights out. For many of us, the breadsticks were the highlight of the Olive Garden experience. Steaming warm, perfectly seasoned with garlic and butter, and soft enough to melt in your mouth, they were a little taste of joy before the entrée even arrived.

For my family, these breadsticks were a special treat. We didn’t eat out often, so whenever we made it to Olive Garden, we made sure to linger over each breadstick, savoring the buttery aroma and soft chew. And when I first learned how to recreate them at home, it was like unlocking a little culinary magic—suddenly, we could bring that same warmth into our own kitchen. Now, these breadsticks are a staple in our home during soup season, alongside spaghetti nights, or even on holidays when we want something everyone will adore.

This recipe brings you that same restaurant-style comfort, without the wait or the check. It’s straightforward, family-friendly, and incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or create a memorable meal at home, these Olive Garden breadsticks will always deliver.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Taste just like the real thing: Buttery, garlicky, soft—every bite brings that Olive Garden flavor to life.
• Perfect for any occasion: Serve them with soups, salads, or pasta, or enjoy on their own.
• Beginner-friendly: Simple steps make this recipe great for bakers of all skill levels.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can prep the dough ahead of time or even freeze baked breadsticks.
• Crowd-pleasing favorite: These are always the first thing to disappear from the table!

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INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED

Dough:

• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons (250g) warm water (100–110°F)
• 1½ teaspoons instant yeast
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1¾ teaspoons salt
• 3 cups (380g) bread flour (plus more if needed)

Topping:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

HOW TO MAKE OLIVE GARDEN BREADSTICKS COPYCAT

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1: Activate the yeast and mix the dough
In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a dough hook, add warm water, sugar, and instant yeast. Let the mixture sit for 3-5 minutes until slightly foamy. Add in the melted butter and salt, then gradually mix in the bread flour.

Step 2: Knead until smooth and elastic
Turn the mixer to medium speed and knead the dough for 10–15 minutes, until it becomes smooth, elastic, and just slightly tacky. You can also knead by hand for 15–18 minutes. If the dough is too sticky, add flour one tablespoon at a time.

Step 3: Let it rise
Place the dough into a lightly oiled bowl, turning it once to coat. Cover with a clean kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm area until doubled in size—about 1 to 1½ hours.

Step 4: Shape the breadsticks
Turn the risen dough out onto a floured surface. Gently punch down and divide into 12 even pieces. Roll each piece into a smooth rope, about 8–10 inches long. Arrange them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing each about 2 inches apart.

Step 5: Second rise
Loosely cover the shaped dough with lightly greased plastic wrap or a damp towel and let rise again for 30–45 minutes. They should look puffy and soft to the touch.

Step 6: Bake
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake the breadsticks for 12–14 minutes or until lightly golden on top. Rotate the pan halfway through for even browning if needed.

Step 7: Brush with garlic butter
As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush generously with melted butter mixed with garlic powder and salt. Serve immediately for the best experience.

HELPFUL TIPS

• Flour tip: Bread flour gives the best chewy texture, but you can use all-purpose if needed.
• Warm spot tip: Proof dough in an oven with the light on or near a warm stove.
• Shaping tip: Keep the ropes even in thickness so they bake uniformly.
• Freezing tip: Freeze shaped dough before the second rise, then thaw and rise when ready to bake.
• Garlic butter upgrade: Add a pinch of dried parsley or Italian seasoning for extra flavor.

DETAILS

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 12–14 minutes
• Total Time: About 2 hours 45 minutes
• Yield: 12 breadsticks
• Category: Bread, Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American
• Diet: Vegetarian

NOTES

• These breadsticks are best fresh out of the oven, but they reheat beautifully in the oven wrapped in foil.
• If you’re sensitive to garlic, reduce the garlic powder to a pinch and substitute with Italian herbs.
• Make a double batch and freeze half for quick sides during the week!

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION (per breadstick)

• Calories: ~170 kcal
• Total Fat: 6g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Protein: 4g
• Sodium: 400mg

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What makes Olive Garden breadsticks so good?
Olive Garden breadsticks are beloved for their soft, chewy texture and golden-brown exterior. Brushed with a savory garlic butter and sprinkled with a blend of herbs and salt, they’re warm, flavorful, and comforting—perfect for pairing with soups or dipping sauces.

What is the seasoning on Olive Garden breadsticks?
The signature seasoning includes garlic powder, salt, and a touch of Italian herbs. This simple yet flavorful blend enhances the buttery coating, giving the breadsticks their crave-worthy aroma and taste.

What is the breadstick rule at Olive Garden?
Olive Garden typically serves one breadstick per guest, plus one extra for the table. Servers continue to bring more upon request, ensuring guests can enjoy warm, fresh breadsticks throughout the meal.

Does Olive Garden put butter on their breadsticks?
Yes, Olive Garden brushes their breadsticks with a garlic-flavored butter substitute right after baking. This step adds a rich, savory taste and helps the seasoning stick, giving them their iconic flavor.

STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS

Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. Reheat wrapped in foil in a 325°F oven for 5–7 minutes to restore softness. Avoid microwaving, which makes them rubbery.

Related Recipes

If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:

• Chicken Alfredo – A Hearty, Homemade Comfort Meal
• Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
• Cozy Dairy-Free French Toast
• Banana Bread Waffles

CONCLUSION

There’s a reason why Olive Garden Breadsticks Copycat are so beloved—they bring people together. Whether served with soup, pasta, or simply dipped in marinara, these breadsticks are the kind of recipe that transforms an ordinary meal into a cherished memory. Their warm, buttery flavor and soft bite make them a go-to comfort food for any season, any reason.