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

A close-up of four golden brown, cheesy breadsticks topped with parsley on a white plate.

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Recreate the famous soft, chewy, and buttery breadsticks from your favorite Italian restaurant right in your own kitchen. This easy recipe delivers restaurant-style breadsticks perfect for any dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F)
  • 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 4 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash)
  • 1/2 cup 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 the flour and salt to the yeast mixture. Mix until a shaggy dough forms, then add the olive oil. Knead the dough on a lightly floured surface for 5 to 7 minutes until it is smooth and elastic.
  3. First rise: Place the dough in a lightly oiled 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.
  4. Shape the breadsticks: Gently punch down the dough. Divide it into two equal pieces. Roll each piece out into a rectangle about 1/4 inch thick. Cut each rectangle into 10 to 12 strips, about 1 inch wide.
  5. Second rise: Place the breadstick strips on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Cover loosely and let them rest for 20 minutes while you preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  6. Bake: Brush the tops lightly with the beaten egg wash. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until lightly golden brown.
  7. Prepare the garlic butter: While the breadsticks bake, combine the melted butter, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning in a small bowl.
  8. Coat the breadsticks: As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the garlic butter mixture.
  9. Finish: Immediately sprinkle the tops evenly with the grated Parmesan cheese. Serve warm.

Notes

  • For extra soft dinner rolls texture, you can let the dough rise in the refrigerator overnight after the first rise.
  • If you want cheesy breadsticks, sprinkle mozzarella cheese over the tops during the last 3 minutes of baking before applying the garlic butter.
  • You can make the garlic butter topping ahead of time and gently reheat it before brushing.

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