Gluten-Free Breadsticks Easy Olive Garden Copycat
Make the easiest Gluten-Free Breadstick recipe inspired by Olive Garden breadsticks in less than 30 minutes. These breadsticks are high in protein and low in carbs. They are made with almond flour, Greek yogurt, Monterey Jack cheese, parmesan cheese, eggs, Italian seasonings, and garlic powder. They are light and fluffy without any yeast or rising for your dinner or salad.
This recipe is a favorite in my home because the breadsticks come out soft, buttery, and filled with rich Italian flavors, much like the iconic Olive Garden version. Whether it’s your first time making gluten-free breadsticks or you’re a seasoned baker, this recipe is foolproof and sure to impress. I love serving these at family dinners or gatherings—they always disappear fast!
Why are These Gluten-Free Breadsticks Better than Olive Garden’s?
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Italian Breadstick Recipe
- Quick and easy to make: These gluten-free breadsticks come together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
- Inspired by Olive Garden’s flavors: Enjoy the soft, buttery texture and rich Italian seasoning of classic Olive Garden breadsticks, all made gluten-free at home.
- High-protein and low-carb: Made with almond flour and Greek yogurt, these breadsticks are a satisfying option for anyone looking for a gluten-free alternative.
- Customizable to fit your needs: Whether you prefer dairy-free or egg-free versions, this recipe is versatile and easy to adapt to various dietary preferences.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Here is everything you need to make my homemade gluten-free breadsticks recipe:
Almond Flour: Almond flour is the best option that is low-carb and high-protein. But you can also use the following substitutions and amounts…
| Alternate Flours | Amount |
|---|---|
| Oat Flour | 1-1/4 cups |
| Gluten-Free Flour Blend (Bob’s Red Mill) | 1 cup + 1 tablespoon |
| Brown Rice Flour | 1-1/4 cups |
| Cassava Flour | 1 cup |
Monterey Jack Cheese: For best results, I recommend Monterey Jack or Mozzarella cheese creates a melty, stretchy texture, but you can use provolone or a dairy-free cheese if preferred. For a sharper flavor, try using cheddar.
Greek Yogurt: For high protein, you can also use whipped cottage cheese. Or, you can substitute it with sour cream, cream cheese, or ricotta cheese.
Eggs: You can replace the eggs in the dough with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) for a vegan option. And omit the egg wash.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan cheese works best. You can also omit it.
Baking Powder: Gives the breadsticks their rise and fluffiness.
Italian Seasoning: Substitute with a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme to create your own blend with your favorite Italian herbs
Garlic Powder: Use 1 teaspoon of minced fresh garlic for a more intense garlic flavor.
Salt: Swap with sea salt or omit if using salted butter to reduce sodium content.
Egg White: You can omit the egg wash if needed.
Butter: Use ghee or a plant-based butter alternative if needed.
How to Make My Olive Garden Copycat Homemade Breadsticks Recipe
Here are easy, detailed, step-by-step instructions for making your own cheesy breadsticks. The instructions are also repeated in the recipe card at the bottom of this blog post.
Step 1: Make the Bread Dough
Preheat the oven to 350°F (170°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
In a microwave-safe bowl, add the Monterey Jack cheese, parmesan cheese and greek yogurt. Microwave for about 25 seconds or until the cheese is slightly melted but not bubbly. Add two room-temperature eggs and stir until well combined.
In a mixing bowl, add the almond flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt and mix until combined. Pour in the cheese mixture. Stir with a spatula until a dough forms. The dough should lightly stick to your fingers but not be wet. Add more almond flour if needed.
Step 2: Shape the Breadsticks
Pour a small amount of oil in your hands and roll about 3 tablespoons of dough into a ball. Then, roll the breadstick dough into a long breadstick, about 5-6 inches long. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.
Lightly beat one egg yolk and brush it over the top of each breadstick for a golden finish.
Step 3: Bake the Garlic Breadsticks
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 16-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter using a pastry brush for an extra-rich flavor.
You can sprinkle the tops of the breadsticks with fresh herbs, garlic salt, garlic butter, or grated parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
Let the breadsticks cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm breadstick, paired with your favorite dipping sauce, or as a side to your meal.
Expert Recipe Tips
Egg Temperature: If you don’t have time to bring your eggs to room temperature, you can place cold eggs in a bowl of hot tap water for 5 minutes to quickly warm them. If you add cold eggs to the melted cheese mixture, it could cause your cheese to solidify.
Seasoning Variations: You can customize the flavor by adding extra herbs like rosemary, thyme, or even a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Shaping Tips: The dough will be sticky, so lightly oil your hands to shape the breadsticks easily. You can form the dough into any bread or roll shape you like. But avoid making them taller than 3/4 inch.
Do you love muffins? Check out more of my easy and nutritious muffin recipes:
Gluten-Free Breadsticks Easy Olive Garden Copycat
Ingredients
- 2 cups Monterey Jack Cheese or Mozzarella
- 1/4 cup greek yogurt
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups almond flour
- 2 tablespoons parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 2 teaspoons garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 egg white
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (170°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.In a microwave-safe bowl, add the Monterey Jack cheese, parmesan cheese and greek yogurt. Microwave for about 25 seconds or until the cheese is slightly melted but not bubbly. Add two room-temperature eggs and stir until well combined.
- In a mixing bowl, add the almond flour, baking powder, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and salt and mix until combined. Pour in the cheese mixture. Stir with a spatula until a dough forms. The dough should lightly stick to your fingers but not be wet. Add more almond flour if needed.
- Pour a small amount of oil in your hands and roll about 3 tablespoons of dough into a ball. Then, roll the breadstick dough into a long breadstick, about 5-6 inches long. Place them on the prepared baking sheet.Lightly beat one egg yolk and brush it over the top of each breadstick for a golden finish.
- Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 16-20 minutes, or until the breadsticks are golden brown and firm to the touch. Remove the breadsticks from the oven and immediately brush them with melted butter using a pastry brush for an extra-rich flavor. Let the breadsticks cool slightly before serving.
Video
My family loved this!
Thank you, Tony!
Thank you for gluten-free breadsticks!! These came out so soft. I spread garlic butter on top and ate them with salad and they are delicious!!
Thank you for the review, Wendy! I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe 🙂
These breadsticks are soft and cheesy and full of Italian flavor! I’m excited for you to try them 🙂