Original Breadsticks from Papa John's feature soft, warm dough seasoned with garlic and herbs, baked to a golden brown, and served with a side of zesty marinara sauce for dipping.
Equipments
- Stand mixer or dough mixer
- Dough hook attachment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Dough scraper
- Rolling pin
- Baking sheet or sheet pan
- Parchment paper
- Pastry brush
- Oven
- Cooling rack
- Sauce cup or ramekin (for marinara sauce)
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 teaspoons active dry yeast
- 1 1/2 cups warm water
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (melted)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (such as basil, oregano, parsley)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt (for sprinkling)
- 1 cup marinara sauce
Active dry yeast must be fresh and properly activated in warm water to ensure the dough rises correctly, while warm water temperature should be around 105-110degF to avoid killing the yeast. Measuring flour accurately helps maintain the right dough consistency; too much flour will result in dense breadsticks, while too little will make the dough sticky and hard to handle. Garlic powder and dried Italian herbs contribute to the signature flavor, making it essential to use high-quality, fresh spices. Olive oil and melted butter enrich the dough, providing softness and a golden-brown finish after baking. Your Original Breadsticks from Papa John's copycat menu will come out soft, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned when these key ingredients are properly prepared and measured.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and active dry yeast. Let sit until foamy (5-10 minutes).
- Add olive oil, all-purpose flour, and salt to the yeast mixture.
- Using the stand mixer with the dough hook, knead on medium speed until a smooth, elastic dough forms (6-8 minutes).
- Transfer the dough to a lightly oiled bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size (about 1 hour).
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and roll into a rectangle about 1/2-inch thick.
- Cut the dough into breadstick-sized strips using a dough scraper.
- Place strips on a parchment-lined baking sheet, spacing slightly apart.
- Cover loosely and let rise for 10-15 minutes.
- Bake for 13-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Mix melted butter, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and onion powder.
- Brush baked breadsticks with the seasoned butter mixture.
- Sprinkle with kosher salt.
- Transfer breadsticks to a cooling rack.
- Serve warm with marinara sauce in a ramekin for dipping.
Substitution
Original Breadsticks from Papa John's copycat menu offer a soft, warm texture enhanced by garlic and Italian herbs. If you don't have active dry yeast, instant yeast can be used by reducing the water temperature slightly to avoid killing the yeast. Olive oil can be substituted with vegetable or canola oil without significantly changing the flavor or texture. Your marinara sauce can be swapped for store-bought or homemade, depending on your preference and time constraints. If you lack a stand mixer, kneading the dough by hand on a floured surface works well but requires more effort.
Tips
Make sure your warm water is between 105degF and 115degF to activate the yeast without killing it, as water that's too hot or cold can prevent proper rising. When kneading the dough with your stand mixer, keep the speed moderate to develop gluten evenly for a soft, elastic texture. Let your dough rise in a draft-free, warm environment to ensure it doubles in size within the hour. After baking, brush the breadsticks immediately with the garlic-herb butter so the flavors fully soak in while the bread is still hot, enhancing your final taste experience.
Nutritions
Original Breadsticks from Papa John's provide a rich source of carbohydrates from all-purpose flour, fueling your energy needs while the olive oil and unsalted butter contribute heart-healthy fats and essential fat-soluble vitamins. The garlic powder and dried Italian herbs add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that support overall wellness. The accompanying marinara sauce offers a dose of vitamin C, lycopene, and other antioxidants from tomatoes, enhancing immune function and cardiovascular health. You can enjoy these breadsticks as a flavorful side while benefiting from their balanced combination of macronutrients and micronutrients.
Storage
Store leftover breadsticks in an airtight container or resealable plastic bag at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain softness. To keep them fresh longer, wrap breadsticks tightly in aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 5 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat your breadsticks in a preheated oven at 350degF (175degC) for 5-7 minutes, then serve warm with marinara sauce.
Variation or Alternatives
You can experiment by substituting whole wheat flour for half of the all-purpose flour to add a nutty flavor and boost fiber content in the breadsticks. Swap marinara sauce with a creamy garlic or Alfredo dip to create a richer contrast with the herb-seasoned dough. For a spicier twist, incorporate red pepper flakes or chopped jalapenos into the dough or the butter seasoning blend before brushing. Using a pizza stone instead of a baking sheet can enhance the crust's crispness by providing more even heat distribution during baking.
Allergies
The Original Breadsticks from Papa John's contain wheat flour, which poses a risk for those with gluten allergies or celiac disease. The recipe also includes butter, which may trigger reactions in individuals sensitive to dairy. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it's important to avoid this dish or seek suitable alternatives.
Why this recipe?
Papa John's Original Breadsticks are popular for their soft, warm texture combined with a flavorful buttery garlic seasoning that appeals to a wide range of taste preferences. You can achieve a similar mouthwatering experience at home by creating a copycat recipe, which offers the satisfaction of fresh, customizable breadsticks without the need for delivery. The ease of preparing these breadsticks from simple ingredients like flour, yeast, garlic, and butter makes them accessible for home cooks looking to replicate a beloved menu item. Trying the copycat version allows you to enjoy the signature taste and aroma whenever you want, enhancing your homemade meal options.