Garlic breadsticks are the perfect way to celebrate National Breadstick Day, which falls on the last Friday of October. This year, the celebration falls on October 25, and I can’t think of a more delicious way to honor this humble yet beloved treat than with a warm, garlicky breadstick in hand.
Contents
Garlic breadstick recipe
Garlic breadsticks are a beloved appetizer and side dish in Italian cuisine. These are a savory version of the traditional breadstick (known as “grissini” in Italian). The addition of garlic to these crispy sticks of bread elevates their flavor, making them a favorite choice for garlic lovers. The rich, aromatic garlic pairs perfectly with the crisp outer texture and soft, chewy center of the breadstick.
These breadsticks are known for their light, fluffy, and chewy texture. They typically have a soft interior that contrasts with a slightly crispy exterior, especially when brushed with garlic butter after baking. Some recipes yield breadsticks that are more crunchy on the outside while remaining soft and buttery on the inside, similar to styles found in popular restaurants like Domino’.
This is how to make the garlic breadstick:
Easy Garlic Breadsticks
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup warm water about 110°F or 43°C
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
- 2-3 cloves garlic minced (or 1 teaspoon garlic powder)
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley optional
- Grated Parmesan cheese optional, for topping
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until frothy.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine flour and salt. Create a well in the center and add the yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms.
- Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a kitchen towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). After the dough has risen, punch it down and roll it out into a rectangle about 1/2 inch thick. Cut into strips (about 1 inch wide).
- Place the strips on a greased baking sheet, cover, and let them rise for another 15 minutes.
- In a small bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, and dried parsley. Brush this mixture over the risen breadsticks.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown. If using, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top during the last few minutes of baking.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy your homemade garlic breadsticks!
Notes
- Whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor
- Almond flour for a gluten-free option
- Spelt flour for a slightly sweet, nutty taste
Variations
1. Garlic cheese breadsticks
The garlic breadsticks are gooey and flavorful, making them a favorite for pairing with soups or pasta.
- Additional Ingredients:
- Add 1 to 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese to the dough.
- Optionally, sprinkle additional cheese on top before baking.
- Instructions:
- Mix shredded mozzarella into the dough after combining flour and salt.
- Optionally, add more cheese on top along with the garlic butter before baking.
2. Twisted garlic breadsticks
The ingredients for this version are the same as the basic one. You just need to adjust the instructions. This variation provides a fun presentation and a delightful texture.
- After cutting the dough into strips, twist each strip several times to create a spiral shape before placing them on the baking sheet.
- Brush with garlic butter and bake as usual.
3. Stuffed breadsticks
- Additional Ingredients: Add 1 cup of your choice of filling (e.g., cheese, pepperoni, spinach) to the dough.
- Instructions:
- After rolling out the dough, place a line of filling in the center of each strip before folding the dough over and sealing the edges.
- Proceed with the second rise and baking as usual.
4. Quick no-yeast recipe
- Ingredients Adjustment:
- Replace yeast with 1 tablespoon of baking powder.
- Use 1 cup of yogurt or buttermilk instead of warm water to help the breadsticks rise.
- Instructions:
- Mix all dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, and salt) together, then add yogurt or buttermilk to form the dough.
- Proceed to shape and bake the breadsticks without waiting for rising time.
5. Sheet pan garlic breadsticks
Use the same ingredients. For the instructions:
- After the first rise, roll the dough out to cover the entire sheet pan (greased or lined with parchment paper).
- Cut into strips after the second rise, then bake as directed.
6. Sweet and savory version
Try these sweet variations:
- Brush with a mixture of honey, melted butter, and roasted garlic
- Sprinkle with cinnamon sugar for a sweet-savory twist
- Dip in chocolate sauce for an unexpected dessert option
Serving and pairing suggestions
1. As an appetizer
Garlic breadsticks make an excellent appetizer for any occasion. When serving these breadsticks as an appetizer, I recommend:
- 2-3 thin breadsticks per person for a light starter
- 1-2 thicker, softer breadsticks per person as part of an appetizer spread
- Adjust quantities based on the number of other appetizers being served
2. As a side dish
These garlic breadsticks complement a wide range of main courses, such as:
- Pasta dishes, especially those with tomato-based sauces
- Hearty soups and stews
- Grilled meats and vegetables
- Salads as a crunchy accompaniment
3. Paring with complementary dishes
- Soups and stews
- Minestrone soup
- Creamy tomato bisque
- Hearty beef stew
- Lentil soup
- Salads and light meals
- Caesar salad
- Caprese salad
- Greek salad
- Light pasta primavera
- Pasta dishes
- Spaghetti and meatballs
- Fettuccine Alfredo
- Lasagna
- Penne arrabbiata
- Grilled meats and vegetables
- Grilled chicken breast
- Steak with herb butter
- Grilled vegetable medley
- Shrimp scampi
- Dipping Sauces
- Classic marinara provides a tangy contrast to garlic breadsticks.
- Garlic aioli offers a creamy, garlicky complement.
- Herb-infused olive oil provides a light, aromatic dipping option.
- Cheese-based dips complement the savory notes of garlic breadsticks.
Common issues
1. Dough not rising properly
If your dough isn’t rising:
- Check the expiration date of your yeast
- Ensure the water temperature is correct too hot can kill yeast
- Place dough in a warm, draft-free area to rise
2. Uneven baking or browning
To achieve even baking:
- Rotate the baking sheet halfway through the cooking
- Ensure your oven temperature is accurate with an oven thermometer
- Space breadsticks evenly on the baking sheet
3. Lack of flavor or seasoning
To enhance flavor:
- Use fresh garlic or high-quality garlic powder
- Incorporate herbs like parsley, basil, or oregano
- Brush breadsticks with garlic butter before and after baking
4. Texture problems too hard or too soft
For perfect texture:
- Adjust baking time and temperature as needed
- Ensure proper hydration of the dough
- Allow breadsticks to cool slightly before serving for optimal texture