Garlic Breadsticks

There are certain recipes that instantly bring back memories, and for me, these soft, garlicky breadsticks are at the very top of that list. They were actually the very first bread I ever learned to bake, and I still remember how proud I felt pulling that first golden-brown batch from the oven.

Over the years, this recipe has become more than just bread—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser in my home. My kids light up the moment they see these on the table, and I love that they’re just as perfect for a family dinner as they are for a special gathering.

And here’s one of the best parts: these breadsticks are fast. I don’t even bother letting the dough rise (because, let’s be honest—when everyone’s hungry, waiting isn’t easy). I’ve tested them both ways—with a rise and without—and the results are nearly identical. Skipping that step means I can have warm, homemade breadsticks on the table in under an hour.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy – no long rising time required.
• Soft and fluffy inside, with a golden, buttery crust.
• Versatile dough – perfect for breadsticks, bread bowls, or pizza bombs.
• Customizable flavor – add cheese, herbs, or your favorite toppings.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 tablespoons active dry yeast – the key to getting that soft, airy texture.
• 2 ½ cups warm water – around 110°F is perfect for activating yeast.
• 2 tablespoons sugar – helps feed the yeast and adds a hint of sweetness.
• 2 tablespoons oil – keeps the dough tender.
• 1 tablespoon salt – for flavor.
• 6 cups all-purpose flour – enough to create a soft, workable dough.
• ½ cup melted butter – brushed over the top for richness.
• Garlic bread seasoning – a blend of garlic powder, herbs, and salt for the finishing touch.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 – Make the Dough
In a large mixing bowl, dissolve the yeast in warm water. Let it sit for a minute or two until it starts to foam. Add the sugar, oil, salt, and flour. Mix until a soft dough forms.

Step 2 – Knead
Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes. The dough should be smooth and elastic but not sticky. If it’s too sticky, add a little more flour as you knead.

Step 3 – Shape
Roll the dough out into a rectangle on a floured surface. Cut into strips using a pizza cutter, then twist each strip slightly for that “fancy” breadstick look. Place them close together on a greased half baker’s sheet (18 x 13 inches).

Step 4 – Season
Brush the dough generously with melted butter, then sprinkle with garlic bread seasoning.

Step 5 – Bake
Bake at 350°F for about 20–22 minutes, until golden brown.

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Serving Suggestions

These breadsticks are incredibly versatile:

• Pair them with spaghetti, lasagna, or fettuccine Alfredo.
• Serve alongside soups like minestrone, tomato basil, or chicken noodle.
• Use the dough to make bread bowls for creamy soups or chowders.
• Wrap the dough around mozzarella sticks or pepperoni to make pizza bombs.

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Tips for Success

• Don’t over-flour the dough – adding too much flour will make them dense.
• Use quality seasoning – I love a mix of garlic powder, parsley, oregano, and salt.
• Serve fresh – these are best enjoyed warm from the oven.
• Freeze for later – shape and freeze the raw dough sticks on a tray, then bake straight from frozen (adding a few extra minutes).

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Why This Recipe Works

The combination of a soft dough, rich butter, and flavorful garlic seasoning creates a breadstick that’s irresistible. By keeping the steps simple and skipping the rise, you still get the softness you want without the wait time.

Whether you’re serving these for a family dinner, bringing them to a potluck, or just making them as an afternoon snack, they’re a hit every time.

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Soft, garlicky, and absolutely delicious—this breadstick recipe will be your new go-to. Try it once, and you’ll be hooked.