Fazoli’s Breadsticks Recipe: Warm Garlic-Butter Twists in Minutes

There’s nothing like the aroma of freshly baked breadsticks filling your kitchen. I’ve recreated Fazoli’s signature recipe at home with a simple dough and a secret garlic-butter topping.

This method delivers warm, fluffy breadsticks with that signature buttery garlic flavor in under 30 minutes. The dough comes together quickly, and the garlic topping is the perfect finishing touch.

What you get are golden, pull-apart breadsticks that taste just like the restaurant version. They’re soft inside with a slightly crisp exterior, and that garlic-butter coating makes them irresistible.

Serve them warm with marinara or enjoy them plain. Here’s how to make these breadsticks at home.

Ingredients for Fazoli’s Breadsticks

Simple pantry staples transform into warm, fluffy breadsticks with that signature garlic-butter magic.

The flour is the foundation here—King Arthur Bread Flour gives you that perfect chewy texture (all-purpose works in a pinch, but bread flour is ideal). Yeast freshness matters: check the expiration date and store it in the freezer to extend its life. For the butter, Land O’Lakes unsalted melts beautifully and lets the garlic shine without any salty competition. Most grocery stores carry all of these, no specialty trips needed.

No bread flour? All-purpose plus 1 tbsp vital wheat gluten gets you close. Out of fresh garlic? Garlic powder at half the amount works for the topping too (just bloom it in the melted butter). Parsley can be swapped for dried (use one-third the amount), and if you’re skipping the Parmesan, a sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds a cheesy note without dairy.

Dough can rest in the fridge overnight if you want to prep ahead. Baked breadsticks stay warm for 20-30 minutes but are best fresh. Leftovers? Reheat in a 350°F oven for 5-8 minutes to revive that just-baked feel. Freeze uncooked dough balls for up to 1 month.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic-Butter Breadsticks

These simple steps create soft, flavorful breadsticks with that signature Fazoli’s garlic-butter finish.

Step 1: Activate the Yeast and Mix the Dough

In a large bowl, whisk together the 1 cup Warm Water, 1 tbsp Granulated Sugar, and 2.25 tsp Active Dry Yeast. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until the mixture becomes foamy—that tells you the yeast is active and ready to work.

Add the 2.5 cups Bread Flour, 1 tsp Salt, 0.5 tsp Garlic Powder, and 0.5 tsp Dried Oregano to the yeast mixture. Stir with a wooden spoon until a shaggy dough forms. You’ll notice the dough pulling away from the sides of the bowl as it comes together.

Step 2: Knead and Let the Dough Rise

Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes until smooth and elastic. The dough should spring back when you press it gently with your finger. If it’s sticky, add a little more bread flour, 1 tablespoon at a time, but don’t overdo it.

Lightly grease a clean bowl with the 1 tbsp Olive Oil, place the dough inside, and cover with a damp towel. Let it rise in a warm place for 1-1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size. I like to place mine near a sunny window or on top of the fridge for consistent warmth.

Step 3: Shape and Second Rise

Punch down the risen dough to release the air, then divide it into 12 equal portions. Roll each piece into a 6-inch rope, about ½-inch thick. Place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, leaving 1 inch between each breadstick to allow for expansion.

Cover the shaped breadsticks with a clean kitchen towel and let them rise for another 30-45 minutes. They’ll puff up slightly and look softer. Preheat your oven to 375°F during this final rise to ensure it’s ready when the breadsticks are.

Step 4: Bake to Golden Perfection

Bake the breadsticks in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes until they’re light golden brown and sound hollow when tapped. Keep an eye on them around the 12-minute mark—they can go from golden to overdone quickly.

While they bake, melt the 0.5 cup Unsalted Butter in a small bowl and mince the 4 cloves Garlic Cloves. As soon as the breadsticks come out of the oven, brush them generously with the melted butter, then sprinkle with the minced garlic.

Step 5: Add Finishing Touches and Serve

Sprinkle the warm breadsticks with the 0.25 cup Parmesan Cheese and 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley. The cheese will melt slightly from the heat, and the parsley adds a fresh, vibrant finish.

Let them cool for 2-3 minutes—just enough so you don’t burn your fingers. Serve warm, while the garlic butter is still glossy and aromatic. These are best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, but they’ll keep well in an airtight container for up to 2 days if needed.

Storing and Reheating This Recipe

Room Temperature Storage

These breadsticks are best enjoyed fresh, but they’ll keep at room temperature for 1-2 days in an airtight container. I like using a glass container with a tight lid to maintain that just-baked softness. Avoid plastic bags as they can make the breadsticks soggy. 💛

Refrigerator Storage

For longer storage, place cooled breadsticks in a ziplock bag or airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The cold will firm them up, but they’ll soften when reheated. I always add a paper towel inside the bag to absorb any excess moisture.

Freezing for Later

Freeze completely cooled breadsticks in a single layer on a baking sheet first, then transfer to a freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 1 month. This method prevents them from sticking together, so you can grab just what you need.

Oven Reheating

Preheat your oven to 350°F and warm breadsticks for 5-8 minutes wrapped in foil. For crispier results, unwrap for the last 2 minutes. This method restores that fresh-baked texture beautifully. 🔥

Microwave Method

Wrap a breadstick in a damp paper towel and microwave for 15-20 seconds. This works in a pinch, though the texture won’t be as good as oven reheating. The steam from the towel helps prevent drying out.

Reviving the Flavor

After reheating, brush with a little extra melted butter and garlic to refresh the flavor. A quick sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before reheating also adds a nice cheesy boost to your leftovers.

Frequently Asked Questions