11 My Carrabba’s Copycat Recipes to Bring the Italian Flavor to Your Table

Craving the authentic flavors of Carrabba’s Italian Grill but don’t want to leave your kitchen? This collection of 11 My Carrabba’s Copycat Recipes brings the restaurant’s most beloved dishes straight to your home.

From savory pasta dishes to decadent desserts, these recipes are crafted with love and attention to detail so you can recreate that signature Carrabba’s experience.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself, these dishes will transport your taste buds to Italy without ever leaving your dining table.

1. Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan

About:

This dish is a fan favorite, featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a creamy lemon-butter sauce, crispy prosciutto, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s rich, indulgent, and perfect for special occasions or when you need a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices of prosciutto
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1/2 cup white wine
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Crisp the Prosciutto:
   In the same skillet, add the prosciutto slices and cook until crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towels.
3. Make the Sauce:
   Deglaze the skillet with white wine, scraping up any browned bits. Add the lemon juice and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and reduce the heat to low. Let it thicken slightly, then whisk in the butter until melted and smooth.
4. Assemble and Finish:
   Place the chicken back into the skillet. Top each piece with slices of mozzarella and a slice of crispy prosciutto. Cover the skillet briefly to allow the cheese to melt. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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2. Copycat Carrabba’s Pollo Rosa Maria

About:

A romantic twist on classic chicken dishes, this recipe combines succulent grilled chicken with sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, and a light Marsala wine sauce. The vibrant colors and bold flavors make it an unforgettable entrée.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1/2 cup Marsala wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh basil (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Chicken:
   Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked. Set aside.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add the mushrooms and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute.
3. Create the Sauce:
   Pour in the Marsala wine and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Simmer for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and let it thicken. Finish by whisking in the butter.
4. Plate and Serve:
   Return the chicken to the skillet to coat it in the sauce. Garnish with fresh basil before serving alongside your favorite pasta or vegetables.

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3. Copycat Carrabba’s Spaghetti Pomodoro

About:

Simple yet elegant, this spaghetti dish highlights the natural sweetness of ripe tomatoes paired with garlic and fresh herbs. It’s a staple at Carrabba’s and a must-try for anyone who loves Italian cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb spaghetti
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp sugar
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil water in a large pot and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Sauce:
   Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Combine and Finish:
   Toss the cooked spaghetti in the tomato sauce until well coated. Stir in the chopped basil just before serving. Top with grated Parmesan if desired.

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4. Copycat Carrabba’s Lasagna

About:

This hearty lasagna is layered with rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, savory Italian sausage, and gooey mozzarella. It’s a comforting classic that will satisfy even the biggest appetites.

Ingredients:

• 12 lasagna noodles (oven-ready or pre-cooked)
• 1 lb ground Italian sausage
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 15 oz ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Meat Sauce:
   In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat and stir in the marinara sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
2. Make the Ricotta Mixture:
   In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, half of the Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Assemble the Lasagna:
   Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Add a layer of lasagna noodles, followed by half of the ricotta mixture, more meat sauce, and a sprinkle of mozzarella. Repeat layers, finishing with a top layer of noodles, sauce, and remaining mozzarella and Parmesan.
4. Bake and Serve:
   Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until bubbly and golden. Let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

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5. Copycat Carrabba’s Shrimp Scampi

About:

A light and zesty dish featuring succulent shrimp tossed in a garlic-butter-lemon sauce. Served over linguine, this recipe is perfect for seafood lovers who crave bright, bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb linguine
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Lemon wedges (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil water in a large pot and cook the linguine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
   Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the shrimp, cooking for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
3. Create the Sauce:
   In the same skillet, add the lemon juice, chicken broth, and white wine. Bring to a simmer and reduce slightly, about 3-4 minutes. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce.
4. Combine and Garnish:
   Add the cooked linguine to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with chopped parsley. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

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6. Copycat Carrabba’s Caesar Salad

About:

Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in a tangy homemade Caesar dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and shaved Parmesan. This salad is simple yet bursting with flavor, making it the ideal starter for any meal.

Ingredients:

• 1 head romaine lettuce (chopped)
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• For the Dressing:
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions:

1. Make the Dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, minced garlic, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
2. Assemble the Salad:
   In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with the dressing until evenly coated. Add the croutons and shaved Parmesan cheese.
3. Serve:
   Divide the salad among plates and garnish with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately as a refreshing appetizer.

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7. Copycat Carrabba’s Tiramisu

About:

This decadent dessert layers coffee-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream and cocoa powder. It’s a timeless Italian treat that perfectly balances sweetness and richness.

Ingredients:

• 6 oz ladyfingers
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cooled)
• 8 oz mascarpone cheese
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Cocoa powder (for dusting)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Coffee Mixture:
   Pour the cooled coffee into a shallow dish. Quickly dip each ladyfinger into the coffee, ensuring they don’t get too soggy. Arrange them in a single layer at the bottom of a serving dish.
2. Make the Cream Filling:
   In a mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Gently fold in the mascarpone cheese until smooth.
3. Layer the Tiramisu:
   Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers. Add another layer of coffee-dipped ladyfingers, followed by the remaining mascarpone mixture.
4. Chill and Dust:
   Refrigerate the tiramisu for at least 4 hours or overnight. Before serving, dust the top generously with cocoa powder using a fine sieve.

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8. Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Marsala

About:

This classic Italian dish features tender chicken breasts simmered in a rich Marsala wine sauce with earthy mushrooms. It’s a comforting and elegant meal that pairs beautifully with pasta or roasted vegetables.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 8 oz cremini mushrooms (sliced)
• 3/4 cup Marsala wine
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then dredge them lightly in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Mushrooms:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until they are golden brown and tender.
3. Create the Sauce:
   Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce reduce slightly, about 5 minutes.
4. Finish and Serve:
   Return the chicken to the skillet, spooning the sauce over the top. Simmer for an additional 3-4 minutes until the chicken is heated through. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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9. Copycat Carrabba’s Fettuccine Alfredo

About:

Silky fettuccine noodles tossed in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce—this dish is pure indulgence. Perfectly simple yet utterly satisfying, it’s a staple at Carrabba’s and a must-have for pasta lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fettuccine
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Boil water in a large pot and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
   In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine and Finish:
   Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Cook for 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is well combined. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

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10. Copycat Carrabba’s Grilled Salmon with Lemon Butter Sauce

About:

Juicy grilled salmon topped with a bright lemon-butter sauce makes for a healthy yet luxurious dinner option. The citrusy notes complement the richness of the fish perfectly.

Ingredients:

• 4 salmon fillets (about 6 oz each)
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Lemon Butter Sauce:
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)

Instructions:

1. Grill the Salmon:
   Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper. Grill the salmon for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it flakes easily with a fork.
2. Prepare the Lemon Butter Sauce:
   In a small saucepan over low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the lemon juice, zest, minced garlic, and chopped parsley. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but do not let it boil.
3. Serve:
   Place the grilled salmon on plates and drizzle the lemon butter sauce generously over the top. Serve with steamed vegetables or rice for a complete meal.

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11. Copycat Carrabba’s Breadsticks (Focaccia Style)

About:

Soft, chewy breadsticks brushed with garlic butter and sprinkled with herbs—these are the ultimate accompaniment to any Italian feast. They’re addictive and incredibly easy to make at home!

Ingredients:

• 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast (1 packet)
• 1 cup warm water (110°F/45°C)
• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• For the Topping:
• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 clove garlic (minced)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Coarse sea salt (for sprinkling)

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast:
   In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in warm water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until frothy.
2. Make the Dough:
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the activated yeast mixture and olive oil. Mix until a dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a towel, and let it rise for 1 hour or until doubled in size.
3. Shape the Breadsticks:
   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Punch down the risen dough and divide it into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope shape and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake and Top:
   Bake the breadsticks for 12-15 minutes until golden brown. Meanwhile, mix the melted butter, minced garlic, and oregano. Brush the baked breadsticks with the garlic butter and sprinkle with coarse sea salt. Serve warm.

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With these 11 My Carrabba’s Copycat Recipes, you now have the tools to recreate your favorite dishes right at home.

Whether you’re craving hearty pasta, succulent seafood, or decadent desserts, these recipes will bring the authentic flavors of Carrabba’s to your kitchen. Buon appetito!

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.