11 My Carrabba’s Copycat Recipes to Bring the Italian Flavor to Your Table
You’ve probably found yourself craving the rich flavors of Carrabba’s after a night out at the Italian-inspired restaurant. Now, imagine being able to recreate those signature dishes in the comfort of your own kitchen.
With these 11 copycat recipes, you’ll decipher the secrets to making Chicken Bryan, Creamy Tomato Soup, and even their famous Lasagna Carrabba’s Style.
You’ll soon be able to treat your family and friends to a taste of Italy, and the best part? You’re just a few ingredients away from bringing that restaurant magic home. But which recipe will you try first?
At a Glance
- Carrabba’s fans crave Chicken Bryan, a signature dish featuring grilled chicken, tangy goat cheese mixture, and sun-dried tomatoes.
- For an authentic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, focus on quality ingredients and technique, and let the sauce simmer for at least an hour.
- Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet achieves harmony of flavors and textures with sweet or hot Italian sausage, tender peppers, and onions.
- Lasagna Carrabba’s Style Recipe requires tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese, with a light hand on mozzarella cheese.
- Tiramisu That Rivals the Original uses high-quality ladyfingers, mascarpone cream, and espresso and liqueur-infused syrup, and chills for at least 24 hours.
Chicken Bryan Recipe Revealed
About 95% of Carrabba’s fans crave their signature Chicken Bryan, a dish that has garnered a devoted following since its introduction.
You’re likely one of them, and you’re probably curious about the secrets behind this mouth-watering recipe. Let’s delve into the world of Bryan secrets and uncover the magic that makes this dish so irresistible.
First, you’ll need to prepare the chicken breast by seasoning it with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika. Don’t overdo it – you want to enhance the flavor, not overpower it.
Next, grill the chicken until it’s cooked through, then top it with a tangy goat cheese mixture. This is where the magic happens, so pay attention.
Mix softened goat cheese with chopped sun-dried tomatoes, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. The combination of creamy cheese, sweet tomatoes, and tangy basil is a game-changer.
Now, here’s a vital Chicken tip: make sure you let the chicken rest before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is juicy and flavorful.
Finally, serve with a side of sautéed spinach and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick. With these Bryan secrets, you’ll be recreating Carrabba’s signature dish like a pro.
Creamy Tomato Soup Like Carrabba’s
A steaming bowl of creamy tomato soup is the perfect remedy for a chilly day, and Carrabba’s has mastered the recipe.
You’ve likely indulged in their rich, velvety version, wondering what makes it so divine.
Now, you can recreate it at home with a few simple ingredients.
Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and celery in butter until they’re tender.
Then, add in a can of crushed tomatoes, a splash of heavy cream, and a pinch of salt.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together.
The key to Carrabba’s signature soup lies in the addition of tomato puree, which adds depth and intensity to the dish.
Stir it in, along with some chopped fresh basil for a bright, herbaceous note.
As the soup thickens, use an immersion blender to puree it until smooth.
Alternatively, you can transfer it to a blender and blend in batches, then return it to the pot.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more cream for a richer texture or a squeeze of lemon for a burst of citrus.
Your homemade creamy tomato soup is now ready to rival Carrabba’s.
Serve it with a swirl of cream, a sprinkle of parmesan, and a side of crusty bread for a comforting meal that’s sure to become a winter staple.
Grilled Chicken Salad Delight
Your taste buds are in for a treat with Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken Salad Delight, a masterful blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more.
This salad is a symphony of freshness, with crisp, fresh greens serving as the foundation for a medley of savory ingredients.
Atop this bed of greens, tender grilled chicken breast shines, its smoky, char-grilled flavors mingling with the subtle tang of crumbled feta cheese.
But what truly sets this salad apart is the harmonious balance of its components.
Crunchy, toasted almonds provide a satisfying textural contrast, while sweet, juicy grapes add a pop of freshness.
Meanwhile, a light, zesty vinaigrette dressing brings everything together, its subtle acidity cutting through the richness of the cheese and chicken.
As you take your first bite, the combination of flavors and textures explodes on your palate, a true delight for the senses.
The grilled chicken, in particular, is a standout, its smoky, slightly charred flavor infusing the entire dish with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
With its perfect balance of fresh, savory, and sweet flavors, Carrabba’s Grilled Chicken Salad Delight is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their salad game.
Spaghetti With Meat Sauce Perfection
Within the domain of Italian-American cuisine, few dishes evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia like a well-crafted spaghetti with meat sauce.
You crave the tender strands of pasta coated in a rich, meaty sauce that’s been simmered to perfection. This iconic dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that transports you back to family gatherings and cozy nights in.
To replicate the Spaghetti With Meat Sauce Perfection of Carrabba’s, you’ll need to focus on the quality of your ingredients and the technique used to combine them.
Start by browning ground beef with onions, garlic, and a pinch of salt to bring out the natural flavors. Then, add in a can of whole tomatoes, tomato paste, and a sprinkle of Italian seasoning to create a sauce that’s both tangy and savory.
Let it simmer for at least an hour to allow the flavors to meld together seamlessly.
Once your sauce is ready, cook your spaghetti al dente and twirl it onto your plate. Top it with a generous helping of meat sauce and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
The result is a dish that’s reminiscent of a meatball sub, but elevated to a whole new level.
With each bite, you’ll be transported back to the comfort of a home-cooked meal, surrounded by loved ones and the warmth of a cozy kitchen.
Wood-Grilled Shrimp Scampi Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of the Mediterranean with Carrabba’s Wood-Grilled Shrimp Scampi Recipe, a dish that masterfully balances the sweetness of succulent shrimp with the pungency of garlic and the brightness of fresh parsley.
This recipe is a masterclass in harmonizing bold flavors, and you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
To replicate this dish, you’ll need to prepare shrimp skewers by threading succulent shrimp onto wooden skewers, leaving a small space between each piece to allow for even grilling.
Next, fire up your grill and cook the shrimp to perfection, achieving a tender, slightly charred exterior and a juicy interior.
While the shrimp are grilling, take the opportunity to prepare the scampi sauce, a zesty blend of garlic, parsley, lemon, and white wine.
This sauce is the backbone of the dish, adding a depth of flavor that elevates the shrimp to new heights.
Simply sauté the garlic and parsley in butter until fragrant, then add the white wine and lemon juice, simmering until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve the grilled shrimp skewers atop a bed of grilled vegetables, such as asparagus or zucchini, and spoon the scampi sauce over the top.
The combination of smoky shrimp, fresh vegetables, and tangy sauce is nothing short of magical.
With this recipe, you’ll be transported to the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast, if only for a moment.
Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet
How do you achieve the perfect harmony of flavors and textures in a single skillet dish? It’s a delicate balance, but Carrabba’s Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet nails it every time.
You’ll need to select the right sausage pairing – sweet or hot Italian sausage works beautifully – to complement the tender peppers and onions.
To achieve Pepper prep perfection, slice the bell peppers into thin strips, removing seeds and membranes for a crisp texture.
You’ll want to sauté them in olive oil until they’re slightly caramelized, which brings out their natural sweetness. Add sliced onions to the mix, cooking until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize.
This is where the magic happens – the sweetness of the peppers and onions balances the savory flavor of the sausage.
Add your chosen sausage to the skillet, browning it on all sides to lock in the juices.
Then, add in a splash of red wine and chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up all those flavorful browned bits.
Simmer the mixture until the sauce has thickened and the sausage is cooked through.
Serve it all together, garnished with fresh parsley and crusty bread on the side.
This Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet is a masterclass in flavor and texture, and with these tips, you’ll be able to recreate it at home with ease.
Chicken Marsala to Die For
You’ve mastered the art of skillet cooking with Carrabba’s Italian Sausage and Peppers Skillet, now it’s time to elevate your protein game with a dish that’s sure to impress: Chicken Marsala to Die For.
This indulgent dish is a game-changer, and with a few simple ingredients, you’ll be transported to the Tuscan countryside.
What sets this recipe apart is the rich, velvety Marsala wine sauce, infused with the deep flavors of sautéed mushrooms and onions.
The key is to not overpower the dish with too much wine, allowing the tender chicken to take center stage. We’re not talking about your average, bland chicken breasts here – we’re talking juicy, succulent chicken tenders that will make your taste buds sing.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind to elevate this dish to new heights:
- Don’t skip the deglazing step: Scrape up all that flavorful goodness from the bottom of the pan to create a rich, intense sauce.
- Use high-quality Marsala wine: Don’t settle for a cheap, bland wine that will overpower the dish. Invest in a good-quality Marsala that will add depth and complexity to the sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: You want tender, juicy chicken that’s cooked to perfection, not dry and overcooked.
- Let it rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving, letting the juices redistribute and the flavors meld together.
Carrabba’s Famous House Salad
Every memorable Italian meal deserves an invigorating start, and Carrabba’s Famous House Salad is the perfect precursor to your culinary journey.
You’ll be delighted by the harmonious balance of flavors and textures in this carefully crafted salad.
The foundation of this dish is a bed of fresh greens, crisp and vibrant, providing a revitalizing contrast to the rich flavors that follow.
To replicate this iconic salad, you’ll need to uncover the salad secrets that set Carrabba’s apart.
Start by combining tender romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and shaved parmesan cheese.
The key to this salad’s success lies in the dressing – a zesty Italian vinaigrette that adds depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
Be sure to drizzle it judiciously, as the perfect ratio of dressing to greens is vital.
Next, add sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and red onions, each contributing a burst of freshness and flavor.
Finally, top your creation with a generous helping of creamy crumbled blue cheese, adding a tangy, savory element that ties the entire dish together.
With these ingredients and a dash of know-how, you’ll be well on your way to recreating Carrabba’s Famous House Salad in the comfort of your own kitchen.
Lasagna Carrabba’s Style Recipe
After savoring the freshness of Carrabba’s Famous House Salad, it’s time to indulge in a rich, satisfying pasta dish that will leave you craving more.
You’re in luck because Carrabba’s Lasagna is a masterclass in layering flavors and textures, making it a standout among Italian classics.
This dish is all about balance, with tender lasagna noodles, rich meat sauce, and creamy ricotta cheese coming together in perfect harmony.
To replicate this dish at home, you’ll need to focus on building those iconic Lasagna layers.
- Start with a flavorful base: Carrabba’s meat sauce is the foundation of this dish, so make sure you’re using high-quality ground beef and simmering it for at least an hour to develop that deep, rich flavor.
- Don’t overdo the cheese: While it’s tempting to load up on the mozzarella, remember that Carrabba’s Lasagna is all about balance. Use a light hand when sprinkling the cheese between layers to avoid overwhelming the dish.
- Ricotta is key: This is where most Lasagna recipes go wrong. Use whole-milk ricotta and don’t overmix it with other ingredients – you want to maintain that creamy texture.
- Let it rest: After assembling the Lasagna, let it rest for at least 30 minutes before baking to allow the flavors to meld together. This step is pivotal for achieving that signature Carrabba’s flavor.
Tiramisu That Rivals the Original
Dive into the world of creamy, coffee-infused bliss with Carrabba’s Tiramisu, a dessert so divine it’ll leave you questioning the authenticity of this copycat recipe.
This Italian classic is a masterclass in balancing bold coffee flavors with rich, velvety textures. To replicate the real deal, you’ll need to get your hands on high-quality ladyfingers, which provide the perfect sponge for soaking up the espresso and liqueur-infused syrup.
Next, you’ll need to whip up a mean mascarpone cream, which is the backbone of any respectable tiramisu. Don’t skimp on the heavy cream or sugar, as these are essential to achieving the right consistency and sweetness.
Once you’ve got your cream and ladyfingers ready, it’s time to assemble the dessert. Dip each ladyfinger into the syrup, then layer them with the mascarpone cream in a large serving dish. Repeat this process until you’ve used up all the ingredients, finishing with a layer of cream on top.
The key to a truly authentic tiramisu is allowing it to chill in the fridge for at least 24 hours, which allows the flavors to meld together and the ladyfingers to absorb the creamy goodness.
When you finally slice into the dessert, the coffee flavors will explode on your palate, followed by the richness of the mascarpone cream. It’s a taste sensation that’s sure to transport you straight to the Italian countryside.
Garlic Mashed Potatoes Like Mom’s
By the time you sink your fork into Carrabba’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes, you’ll be hooked.
These creamy, aromatic spuds are a game-changer, and once you master the recipe, you’ll never go back to bland, boring mashed potatoes again.
Carrabba’s Garlic Mashed Potatoes are more than just a side dish; they’re an experience.
The secret lies in the perfect balance of flavors, textures, and presentation.
You’ll need high-quality potatoes, preferably Russet or Idaho, which yield a fluffier, more tender mash.
Don’t over-mix, or you’ll end up with gluey, unappetizing potatoes.
- Experiment with potato variations: Try using Yukon Gold, red bliss, or even sweet potatoes to create a unique flavor profile.
- Don’t underestimate the power of garlic: Garlic contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, improve heart health, and even have antibacterial effects.
- Use a combination of butter and oil: This will give your mashed potatoes a rich, creamy flavor without becoming too greasy.
- Don’t skip the finishing touches: Add some chopped fresh parsley or chives to give your dish a pop of color and freshness.
FAQs
Can I Use Store-Bought Pasta Sauce in the Recipes?
You’re tempted to take pasta shortcuts, but using store-bought sauce can compromise flavor; instead, try sauce variations, like adding fresh herbs or spices, to elevate your dish without sacrificing quality.
Are These Recipes Suitable for Gluten-Free or Vegan Diets?
You’ll need to make significant adjustments to accommodate dietary restrictions; explore gluten-free alternatives to traditional pasta and vegan modifications to rich sauces, ensuring each substitution aligns with your specific needs.
Can I Freeze Leftovers for Later Use?
When considering freezer safety for meal planning, you’ll want to guarantee you’re freezing cooked leftovers within 3-4 days of cooking, cooling them to 40°F within 2 hours, and using airtight containers to prevent freezer burn and contamination.
What Type of Wine Is Best for the Chicken Marsala Recipe?
When selecting a Marsala wine for your chicken recipe, you’ll want to opt for a dry Marsala, as it won’t overpower the dish; look for wine pairing tips that suggest a crisp, oaky flavor to complement the rich mushroom sauce.
Can I Substitute Chicken Breast With Thighs in the Recipes?
When substituting chicken breast with thighs, you’ll cater to dark meat preference, but be aware that thighs’ higher moisture level can alter cooking time and method, requiring adjustments to achieve tender, juicy results.
DK Jacks is a passionate food enthusiast, recipe developer, and culinary explorer. With a love for both traditional and innovative flavors, DK brings a fresh perspective to the kitchen. When not experimenting with new ingredients, you’ll find DK capturing food moments through the lens or sharing cooking tips with fellow foodies.🍽️📸✨