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The Ultimate Soft & Chewy Olive Garden Copycat Breadsticks with Garlic Parmesan Butter

A close-up of a tall stack of golden brown garlic breadsticks topped with melted cheese and herbs.

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Make restaurant-style breadsticks at home! This easy recipe delivers soft, chewy breadsticks topped with rich garlic parmesan butter, just like your favorite Italian chain.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (105-115°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup olive oil, plus more for greasing
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Activate the yeast: In a large bowl, combine the warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until foamy.
  2. Mix the dough: Add 3 cups of the flour, salt, and 1/4 cup of olive oil to the yeast mixture. Mix until combined. Gradually add the remaining flour until a shaggy dough forms.
  3. 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.
  4. 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 60 to 90 minutes, or until doubled in size.
  5. Shape the breadsticks: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper. Gently punch down the risen dough. Divide the dough into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin strip, about 10 to 12 inches long and 1 inch thick. Place the breadsticks on the prepared baking sheet, leaving a small space between them.
  6. Second rise (optional): Let the shaped breadsticks rest for 15 minutes while the oven finishes preheating.
  7. Bake: Bake for 10 to 14 minutes, or until the breadsticks are lightly golden brown.
  8. Prepare the topping: While the breadsticks bake, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
  9. Finish and serve: Immediately after removing the breadsticks from the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle evenly with the grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra soft dinner rolls texture, brush the dough lightly with melted butter before the second rise.
  • If you want cheesy breadsticks, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tops during the last 3 minutes of baking before adding the garlic butter.
  • You can make the dough ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 2 days; let it come to room temperature before shaping.

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