Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning Recipe

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If you’ve ever dreamed of that perfect combination of soft, warm bread kissed with rich butter, aromatic garlic, and fragrant herbs, then you are absolutely going to adore these Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning. They are irresistibly tender on the inside with a golden crust on the outside, infused with the classic flavors that scream comfort and Italian charm. Whether you’re serving them alongside your favorite pasta or enjoying them as a snack, these breadsticks bring joy to every bite and a little bit of celebration to your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating these Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning requires just a handful of ingredients that work together beautifully to build flavor, texture, and that mouthwatering aroma you’ll crave all day long. Each simple component plays a crucial role—from the fluffy bread base to the luscious garlic butter topping.

• All-purpose flour (3 ½ cups plus extra for dusting): This is the heart of the dough and gives the breadsticks their structure and softness.
• Active dry yeast (2 ¼ tsp): The magic behind the rise, making your breadsticks light and airy.
• Warm water (1 cup, 105–115°F): Activates the yeast gently so it blooms perfectly.
• Granulated sugar (2 tbsp): Feeds the yeast and adds a touch of sweetness to balance the savory elements.
• Unsalted butter, softened (2 tbsp): Blended into the dough for tenderness and richness.
• Salt (1 tsp for dough, plus ½ tsp for garlic butter): Enhances all the flavors without overpowering them.
• Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup): The golden base for your garlic butter that will coat each breadstick beautifully.
• Garlic cloves, minced (4 large or 2 tsp garlic powder): Bursts of garlic flavor that make these breadsticks truly unforgettable.
• Italian seasoning (2 tsp): A flavorful blend of oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary that gives a classic Italian touch.
• Optional Parmesan cheese (¼ cup finely grated): Adds a subtle nutty depth when stirred into the garlic butter.
• Optional fresh parsley (2 tbsp, chopped): For a fresh, vibrant finish that brightens every bite.

How to Make Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning

Step 1: Proof the Yeast

Start by whisking warm water and sugar in a bowl until combined, then sprinkle the yeast over the surface. Give it a gentle stir and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes until frothy and bubbly. This proofing step is key for ensuring your dough rises beautifully with a soft, airy texture that will make these breadsticks stand out.

Step 2: Make the Dough

To the foamy yeast mixture, add the softened butter, salt, and half of your flour. Stir or mix on low speed until the dough begins to pull away from the sides. Gradually add the remaining flour and knead the dough for 6 to 8 minutes by hand on a lightly floured surface, or 4 to 5 minutes in a stand mixer, until it feels smooth and elastic. Add a little more flour if it’s sticky, but avoid overdoing it to keep the breadsticks tender.

Step 3: The First Rise

Lightly oil a clean bowl and roll the dough around to coat it in the oil. Cover the bowl with a damp towel or plastic wrap, and place it in a warm spot (around 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 60 minutes. Wait patiently until the dough doubles in size—that’s your cue that everything is on track for soft, fluffy breadsticks packed with flavor.

Step 4: Shape the Breadsticks

After the rise, gently punch down the dough to release excess air. Turn it out on a floured surface and divide it into 8 large pieces or up to 12 smaller ones depending on your preference. Roll each piece into an approximately 1-inch-wide rope about 8 to 10 inches long, then space them evenly on a parchment-lined sheet pan with about an inch in between for even cooking.

Step 5: Optional Second Rise

Cover the shaped breadsticks with a towel and let them rest for 15 more minutes. This extra rest is optional but highly recommended—it’s the secret for pillowy soft interiors that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Step 6: Prepare the Garlic-Butter Mixture

While the dough rests, whisk together melted butter, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and if you like, Parmesan cheese in a small bowl. This garlicky, buttery mixture is the star that will coat your breadsticks with layers of flavor and buttery goodness.

Step 7: Bake and Brush

Heat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously brush each breadstick with the garlic-butter mixture and bake them for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown on top. The scent alone will have your mouth watering. Once out of the oven, brush them immediately again with the remaining butter mixture, and sprinkle with fresh parsley if desired for a burst of color and freshness.

How to Serve Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning

Garnishes

Fresh chopped parsley sprinkled on top not only looks stunning but adds a fresh, green note that balances the rich garlic butter perfectly. For a little extra indulgence, a light dusting of finely grated Parmesan cheese elevates the flavor to restaurant-worthy status. Don’t forget to serve these warm—their aroma and soft texture shine brightest right out of the oven.

Side Dishes

These breadsticks are incredibly versatile and pair wonderfully with Italian classics like spaghetti marinara, lasagna, or a cozy bowl of minestrone soup. They also make a fantastic side for salads and even grilled chicken or steak dinners when you want to add a comforting, buttery touch to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For some fun presentation ideas, arrange the breadsticks in a circular “wreath” shape or pile them in a rustic basket lined with a linen napkin. You can even serve them with individual ramekins of marinara or alfredo sauce for dipping—perfect for sharing and dipping into buttery garlic bliss. Hosting a dinner party? These breadsticks will instantly become the star appetizer everyone raves about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (and you might!), store them in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days. To keep them as fresh as possible, place a paper towel in the bag or container to absorb moisture and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

These Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning freeze beautifully. After baking and cooling completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature when ready to enjoy.

Reheating

To revive your breadsticks, warm them in a 350-degree Fahrenheit oven for about 10 minutes. For that fresh-baked feeling, you can brush a little melted butter on top before warming. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crust crisp and the centers soft and fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Absolutely! If fresh garlic isn’t handy, garlic powder is a great substitute and still delivers plenty of flavor. Use about 2 teaspoons of garlic powder mixed into the butter for best results.

What if I don’t have Italian seasoning?

No worries at all! You can make your own blend by mixing equal parts dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary, or simply use any dried herbs you have on hand for a personalized twist.

Can I make this dough without a stand mixer?

Definitely! While a stand mixer makes kneading easier, you can knead the dough by hand on a floured surface. It’s a wonderful way to really connect with the dough and ensure the perfect texture.

How do I know when breadsticks are done baking?

The breadsticks should be golden brown on top and smell fragrant, especially with that irresistible garlic aroma. They’ll sound hollow if you tap the bottom and feel springy to the touch when perfectly baked.

Can I add cheese to the dough?

You can! Adding shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese directly into the dough can create a cheesy twist, but be mindful it may alter the texture slightly. Try sprinkling cheese on top after baking for a simpler way to add cheesy delight.

Final Thoughts

Making these Buttery Garlic Breadsticks with Italian Seasoning is not only a fun and rewarding kitchen adventure; it’s a delicious way to fill your home with irresistible smells and gather loved ones around the table. Once you’ve tasted their soft, buttery goodness infused with savory herbs and garlic, you’ll find them hard to resist and even harder to stop making. Go ahead and bake a batch today—you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them!

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