Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks

INTRODUCTION

Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks are soft, warm, and full of garlic butter flavor. These breadsticks are a family favorite and easy to make at home. You will love them with pasta, soup, or as a snack. For an easy weeknight meal, try them with a slow cooker dish like the best crockpot garlic parmesan chicken pasta. This gives you a warm, comforting meal that works well for meal prep or a cozy dinner.

Making these breadsticks at home lets you control ingredients. You can make a healthier version by using less butter or whole wheat flour. They can be a lighter option when you watch portions. These breadsticks can fit into a balanced meal plan and are simple to make from scratch.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

You will love this recipe because it is fast, fresh, and family friendly. The dough rises quickly, and most of the work is hands-off. This makes it great for busy nights and great for meal prep. If you want a lighter option, swap some butter for olive oil or bake until just golden. That small change cuts fat while keeping flavor.

This recipe can be a part of a balanced meal. Pair with lean protein and a salad for a meal that supports weight control. For more hearty pasta and garlic pairings, try the cheesy cajun garlic chicken rotini which makes a filling main to go with these breadsticks. You can also make a lower sugar dough by reducing the sugar a little and add whole grain flour for more fiber.

HOW TO MAKE Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks

Start with warm water and instant yeast. Mix dough ingredients and let the dough rise. Form 16 sticks, let them puff, brush with butter, and bake until golden brown. Brush again with the garlic topping right after they come out of the oven. This gives them their classic shine and taste.

For those who count macros, you can make a high protein meal by serving the breadsticks with grilled chicken or a bean salad. For a lighter option and to lower carbs, try smaller portions and a side of roasted vegetables. If you need a gluten free choice, see the gluten-free options in the Variations section below.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

• Stand mixer with dough hook (or a large bowl and strong hands)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Two baking sheets
• Silicone baking mats or parchment paper
• Small bowl for butter topping
• Pastry brush or spoon for brushing butter
• Clean kitchen towel and plastic wrap

Ingredients You’ll Need :

1 cup very warm water, 1 Tbsp instant yeast, 1/4 cup sugar, 3-1/4 to 3-1/2 cups AP flour, 3 Tbsp softened butter, 1 egg, lightly whisked, 1 tsp salt, Before baking: 2 Tbsp melted butter, 3 Tbsp melted butter, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp garlic powder ((can add up to 1/4 tsp)), 1/8 tsp dried oregano

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :

In your mixing bowl, add the warm water, stir in the yeast and sprinkle the sugar on top and let sit for 3 minutes.
Add 3-1/4 cups flour, softened butter, the egg, and salt and stir to lightly combine.
Using the dough hook, let the bread knead in your mixer for about 5 minutes. (You can add up to another 1/4 cup of flour as needed, but it should look slightly sticky and not quite pull away from the bottom of the bowl. Don’t worry, it will rise beautifully!)
Pull the dough in to a ball with a spatula, spray the bowl lightly around and under the dough with nonstick cooking spray.
Cover with saran wrap and a clean towel and let it rise in a warm place for about an hour.
Punch your dough down, then dump it on to a lightly floured surface.
Knead a couple of times, then divide the dough in to 16 equal size pieces.
Roll each piece in to an 7-8 inch breadstick.
Place the breadsticks on two baking sheets lined with silicone mats or parchment paper, (8 on each.) Drape a towel over the top of each baking sheet and let the breadsticks rise another 1/2 hour until they puff up a bit.
Before baking, brush each breadstick gently with melted butter.
Bake at 400 for 11-12 minutes or until golden brown.
When the breadsticks come out of the oven, immediately brush them with the topping and move to cooling racks. Sprinkle with a little extra oregano if you like. Serve warm.
*Note: You can reheat breadsticks if you wrap them in foil and heat in a 325 degree oven for about 5 minutes or until they are warmed through.

HOW TO SERVE Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks

Serve warm with marinara, a light olive oil dip, or a side of protein and veggies. For a balanced meal, serve two breadsticks with a large salad and a lean protein. That portion size keeps calories in check and makes a filling plate without overdoing carbs. These breadsticks are great for meal prep when you bake a batch and freeze extras for quick reheating.

If you want a full family meal, pair with an easy pasta like the easy garlic parmesan chicken pasta recipe which pairs well and adds protein to the plate.

Portion tip: One or two breadsticks (about 1 serving) is a good control point for those watching calories or following a weight loss plan. Add a cup of green veggies and 4-6 ounces of lean protein to make it a balanced meal.

STORAGE & FREEZING : Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks

To store: Let breadsticks cool fully. Place in an airtight container or resealable bag and keep in the fridge up to 3 days. For best taste, reheat in a 325°F oven wrapped in foil for 5–8 minutes.

To freeze: Cool completely, then wrap each breadstick in plastic wrap and place in a freezer bag. They keep up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen at 325°F wrapped in foil for 10–12 minutes or until warm.

This method is great for meal prep. Make a batch on the weekend and pull them out for quick meals. This strategy makes them a good option for busy weeks and helps with portion control for weight loss plans.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

• Classic: Marinara and a green salad for a lighter plate.
• Protein balanced: Serve with grilled chicken or serve alongside chicken with garlic parmesan rice for a filling dinner.
• Low-cal side: Roasted broccoli and a lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal heart healthy.
• Snack plate: One stick with hummus, sliced veggies, and a small fruit cup for a balanced snack.

These pairings add protein and fiber to the plate, making the breadstick part of a more balanced and satiating meal.

VARIATIONS

• Healthier version: Use half whole wheat flour and half all-purpose flour to add fiber. Swap some melted butter for extra virgin olive oil in the topping to lower saturated fat. This creates a healthy version that still tastes rich.
• High-protein or low-carb version: For a higher protein meal, serve the breadsticks with a high-protein dip such as Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, or pair with grilled turkey or chicken. To cut carbs, make very small sticks and serve with a large protein and vegetable salad. You can also find low-carb breadstick recipes using almond flour if you want a true low carb option.
• Air fryer or oven-baked version: These are baked in the oven by default. To make in an air fryer, shape smaller sticks, place in a single layer, and air fry at 350°F for 6–8 minutes or until golden and cooked. This gives a slightly crisper outside while keeping the inside soft. For a gluten free change, check the gluten-free garlic pizza breadsticks guide for swaps and tips.

Each variation can help meet different diet needs — from a lighter option to a higher protein meal.

FAQs

Q: Can I make these breadsticks healthier?
A: Yes. Use part whole wheat flour, reduce butter, and swap some butter for olive oil. These tweaks make a lighter option without losing much flavor.

Q: How long do breadsticks last in the fridge and freezer?
A: In the fridge, store up to 3 days. In the freezer, they keep up to 3 months when wrapped well. Reheat from frozen in a 325°F oven for 10–12 minutes.

Q: Are these suitable for weight loss plans?
A: They can be. Keep portion sizes to one or two sticks and pair with lean protein and veggies. This helps make the meal filling and supports weight loss goals.

Q: Can I make these gluten free or low carb?
A: Yes. For gluten free, use a tested gluten-free flour blend and follow a gluten-free recipe. For low carb, use almond or coconut flour alternatives and expect texture differences.

Q: Is there a way to add more protein to the meal?
A: Add grilled chicken, legumes, or a high-protein dip like Greek yogurt-based dips. Pairing the breadsticks with protein makes a high protein meal.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Breadsticks

Prepare dough the night before and keep it covered in the fridge. Let it come to room temperature and rise before shaping in the morning. You can also shape the sticks and freeze them on a tray. Once frozen, move them to a bag and bake from frozen with a few extra minutes added to the bake time. This makes the breadsticks great for meal prep and quick weeknight dinners.

Make a double batch and freeze half for later. This saves time and keeps a homemade option ready when you want a tasty side. For busy families, this is a simple way to serve fresh bread without daily effort.

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