Easy Carrabba’s Calamari Recipe

This Easy Carrabba’s Calamari Recipe brings the restaurant favorite right to your kitchen with light, crispy coating and tender calamari rings. Perfect as an appetizer or party snack, it’s quick to make and even better dipped in marinara!

If you’re craving the crispy, tender calamari from Carrabba’s, this easy copycat recipe has you covered!

Lightly breaded and fried to golden perfection, this homemade calamari is just as delicious as the restaurant version—perfect for entertaining, date night at home, or a flavorful appetizer anytime.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Crispy and Tender Every Time – Light breading gives the perfect crunch without overcooking the calamari.
• Tastes Just Like Carrabba’s – A spot-on copycat that brings restaurant flavor to your kitchen.
• Quick and Easy to Make – Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.
• Perfect for Entertaining – A crowd-pleasing appetizer for parties, holidays, or game day.
• Pairs with Your Favorite Dips – Serve with marinara, lemon aioli, or garlic butter for extra flavor.

Carrabba’s Calamari Ingredients

• Calamari rings: Tender squid rings, cleaned and sliced evenly.
• All-purpose flour: Coats calamari for light, crispy texture.
• Cornmeal: Adds extra crunch and golden color.
• Salt: Enhances flavor in the breading mix.
• Black pepper: Adds a mild, savory spice kick.
• Garlic powder: Boosts flavor with subtle garlic notes.
• Paprika: Gives warm color and mild smoky flavor.
• Buttermilk: Helps tenderize and moisten the calamari.
• Lemon wedges: Adds bright, fresh citrus contrast.
• Marinara sauce (for dipping): Classic tomato dip for serving calamari.

How To Make Easy Carrabba’s Calamari Recipe

Step One: Place the calamari rings in a bowl with the buttermilk and let them soak for 15–20 minutes in the fridge. This helps tenderize and add flavor.

Step Two: In a shallow bowl, mix together flour, cornmeal, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.

Step Three: Remove the calamari from the buttermilk (shaking off excess) and dredge each ring in the flour mixture until well coated.

Step Four: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3–5 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with olive oil spray. Place calamari in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and spray the tops with more oil. Set cook time for 8–10 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until calamari are golden brown and crispy. Serve hot with lemon wedges and a side of marinara sauce for dipping

Easy Carrabba’s Calamari Recipe Tips

• Pat the calamari dry before breading: Removing excess moisture helps the coating stick and ensures crispier results, especially in the air fryer.
• Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket: Cook in batches so the calamari crisps evenly and doesn’t steam.
• Use buttermilk for tender texture: Soaking in buttermilk tenderizes the calamari and adds extra flavor to each bite.
• Lightly spray with oil: A quick mist of olive oil spray helps the coating turn golden and crunchy without deep frying.
• Serve immediately: Calamari tastes best hot and fresh—serve right away for peak crispiness.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating Instructions

• Storing Instructions: Store leftover calamari in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let it cool completely before sealing to prevent sogginess.
• Freezing Instructions: Freeze cooked calamari in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 1 month. Reheat straight from frozen for best texture.
• Reheating Instructions: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 4–6 minutes until hot and crispy. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the calamari rubbery and soggy.

What To Serve With Carrabba’s Calamari Recipe

Carrabba’s Calamari pairs perfectly with a variety of sides and sauces to create a complete Italian-inspired meal or appetizer platter. Serve it with warm marinara or lemon aioli for dipping, alongside Caesar salad, garlic bread, or bruschetta for a light and satisfying starter. For a heartier plate, add a side of pasta with olive oil and herbs or a bowl of creamy risotto. A crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon also complements the dish beautifully.

Easy Carrabba’s Calamari Recipe Faqs

Can I use frozen calamari rings? Yes, just make sure to fully thaw and pat them dry before coating and air frying for best texture.

What’s the best way to keep the breading crispy? Don’t overcrowd the air fryer and spray the calamari lightly with oil before cooking to get that golden, crispy finish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely—use a gluten-free flour blend and cornmeal for the coating.

How do I prevent the calamari from getting rubbery? Avoid overcooking. Air fry just until golden and crispy, usually 8–10 minutes, depending on your air fryer model.

Can I prepare the calamari in advance? You can soak and coat the calamari ahead of time, then refrigerate for up to an hour before air frying for optimal freshness.

More Copycat Carrabba’s Recipes

Copycat Carrabba’s Alfredo

Copycat Carrabba’s Chicken Bryan

Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil

Carrabba’s Spaghetti Recipe

Copycat Carrabba’s Zucchini

Instant Pot Copycat Carrabba’s Sausage Lentil Soup

Carrabba’s Shrimp Scampi Recipe

Carrabba’s Chicken Piccata Recipe

Carrabba’s Italian Grill Stuffed Mushrooms Parmigiana Recipe

Carrabba’s Parmesan Crusted Chicken Arugula Recipe

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