Garlic Butter Breadsticks are the ultimate comfort food — warm, soft, and buttery with a rich aroma of garlic that fills your kitchen. They’re perfect as a side to pasta, soup, or salad, or simply enjoyed on their own. I love this recipe because it turns simple pantry ingredients into something truly irresistible.

Each breadstick is brushed with golden garlic butter and sprinkled with herbs, creating that restaurant-style flavor right at home. Whether for family dinners or gatherings, these breadsticks are a guaranteed hit!

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Garlic Butter Breadsticks because they combine simplicity with indulgence. There’s something magical about pulling a batch of warm, soft breadsticks out of the oven, brushing them with melted garlic butter, and watching everyone grab one right away.

They taste just like the ones from your favorite Italian restaurant but fresher and more flavorful. Plus, they’re versatile — perfect with pasta, pizza, or even as a snack. The texture is perfectly fluffy inside and slightly crisp on the outside — pure comfort in every bite!

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This recipe is a must-try because it’s easy, reliable, and absolutely delicious. Even beginner bakers can make these breadsticks successfully, as the dough is simple and forgiving. The combination of soft bread and buttery garlic glaze makes them irresistible.

They elevate any meal, whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy night in. You can make them ahead, freeze them, or customize them with herbs, cheese, or spices. Once you try homemade breadsticks, you’ll never want store-bought again.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 20 minutes (plus 1 hour rising time)
Cooking Time: 15–18 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour 40 minutes
Servings: 12 breadsticks
Calories: Approx. 180 kcal per breadstick
Cuisine: Italian-American
Course: Appetizer / Side Dish / Snack

Ingredients

For the Dough:

2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
1 cup warm water (about 110°F or 43°C)
2 tablespoons sugar
3 cups all-purpose flour (plus extra for kneading)
1 teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

For the Garlic Butter Topping:

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried parsley or Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon salt
Optional: 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese

Simple Cooking Directions

Activate the yeast in warm water with sugar for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
Mix in flour, salt, and melted butter to form dough.
Knead until smooth and elastic, then let rise for 1 hour.
Shape into breadsticks and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes.
Brush with garlic butter topping and serve warm.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Prepare the Dough

In a large bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy. Add melted butter, salt, and flour gradually, mixing until a soft dough forms.

Step 2: Knead the Dough

Transfer dough to a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.

Step 3: First Rise

Place dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

Punch down the dough and divide it into 12 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a 6–7-inch stick and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 5: Second Rise

Cover the breadsticks and let them rest for 15–20 minutes to puff slightly.

Step 6: Bake

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes until golden brown.

Step 7: Make Garlic Butter

While baking, melt butter in a small pan, add minced garlic, parsley, and salt. Let it simmer for 1 minute to infuse the flavors.

Step 8: Brush and Serve

Immediately brush the warm breadsticks with the garlic butter mixture. Sprinkle Parmesan if desired, and serve hot.

How to Serve

Serve warm with marinara sauce, Alfredo sauce, or garlic dip.
Pair with pasta dishes like spaghetti or lasagna.
Add to a charcuterie-style appetizer board for parties.
Brush with extra butter and herbs before serving for extra shine.

Additional Recipe Tips

Ensure water temperature is warm but not hot to avoid killing the yeast.
For softer breadsticks, cover them with foil during the last few minutes of baking.
Don’t skip brushing them immediately after baking — it locks in flavor and moisture.
Add Parmesan or mozzarella for cheesy breadsticks.
Store leftover garlic butter separately for reheating later.

Variations

Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks: Add shredded mozzarella before baking.
Herb Breadsticks: Mix rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the dough.
Spicy Breadsticks: Sprinkle with chili flakes or paprika.
Whole Wheat Breadsticks: Replace half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Sweet Version: Skip garlic and brush with cinnamon butter and sugar instead!

Freezing and Storage Time

Storage: Store cooled breadsticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
Refrigeration: Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat before serving.
Freezing: Freeze baked breadsticks for up to 2 months. Reheat directly in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes or until warm.

Special Equipment Needed

Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Pastry brush
Small saucepan (for garlic butter)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use instant yeast instead of active dry yeast?
A: Yes, skip the proofing step and mix instant yeast directly with flour.

Q2: How can I make the breadsticks softer?
A: Brush with melted butter as soon as they come out of the oven and cover with foil for 5 minutes.

Q3: Can I make these ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the dough, shape it, and refrigerate overnight before baking.

Q4: What type of flour is best?
A: All-purpose flour works best, but bread flour gives a chewier texture.

Q5: Can I make gluten-free breadsticks?
A: Yes, use a gluten-free all-purpose blend with xanthan gum for structure.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Breadsticks are the perfect combination of soft, buttery, and flavorful goodness. They’re easy to make, smell amazing, and taste just like restaurant-quality breadsticks — if not better. Whether you’re serving them alongside pasta or enjoying them as a snack, their golden crust and garlic aroma will have everyone reaching for seconds.

With simple ingredients, make-ahead options, and endless variations, this recipe is a must-have in every kitchen for when you want to impress without the stress.