Olive Garden Creamy Garlic Sauce –– Ever been to Olive Garden? If you have, there’s nothing quite like enjoying one of their signature dishes paired with some crispy garlic bread and a glass of Sangiovese.

Olive Garden Creamy Garlic Sauce
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A dish worthy of such treatment deserves an equally fantastic sauce – enter the Creamy Garlic Sauce! This indulgent sauce is smooth and savory, perfect for adding flavor and texture to any Italian dish. From frying gnocchi, drizzling noodles, or topping stuffed peppers, this Creamy Garlic Sauce recipe will bring out all the right flavors in your meal. Keep reading to learn how to make it at home!

What Is Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce?​

Indulge in the rich and delectable flavors of Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce! 🌿🍝 This signature sauce, renowned for its mouthwatering taste, is a true culinary masterpiece that elevates any dish it graces. Bursting with the savory essence of roasted garlic, buttery goodness, and fragrant herbs, this sauce is the secret behind many of Olive Garden’s most beloved pasta dishes. 🍝🧄

In this article, we’ll dive deep into the delightful world of Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce, exploring its ingredients, preparation, and how it enhances your favorite Italian dishes’ unforgettable taste. Whether you’re an Olive Garden aficionado or a curious foodie eager to unlock the magic of this legendary sauce, get ready to tantalize your taste buds and unravel the secrets behind this iconic culinary creation. 🌟🍴

If you love Olive Garden, try our recipe for Air Fryer Olive Garden Breadsticks, Air Fryer Cherry Tomatoes, and Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Alfredo Recipe, these are some easy recipes that the whole family will love. 

Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Ingredients In Olive Garden Garlic Sauce

If you are like most people, Olive Garden is probably one of your favorite restaurants. Whether you’re picking up a family meal or grabbing take-out to enjoy from home, it’s hard not to appreciate those classic Italian flavors and aromas that have become the benchmark for casual Italian dining.

Behind these fan favorites lies a secret: the signature garlic sauce, which adds zing to many Olive Garden dishes. Today, we uncover all that goes into crafting this creamy and succulent sauce – prepare yourself for an aroma you’ll never forget!

Olive Garden Creamy Garlic Sauce

Remember the step by step directions and detailed ingredient list are below in the printable recipe card, at the bottom of the post, as the nutritional information.

  • Garlic: The star of the show, fresh garlic is the primary ingredient that gives the sauce its bold and aromatic flavor. Roasted or sautéed garlic adds a rich taste to the sauce, making it a garlic lover’s dream.
  • Butter: Butter is the creamy and indulgent base of the garlic sauce, providing a smooth and velvety texture. Its richness complements the garlic and other flavors, creating a luscious sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Olive oil adds a fruity and slightly peppery note to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste. It also helps balance the butter’s richness and provides a silky mouthfeel.
  • White Wine: White wine is often used to deglaze the pan after sautéing the garlic, infusing the sauce with a subtle tang and complexity.
  • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Broth is used to thin out the sauce slightly and add depth of flavor. Chicken broth imparts a savory note, while vegetable broth keeps the sauce vegetarian-friendly.
  • Heavy Cream: Heavy cream contributes to the sauce’s creamy consistency, enriching it with a luxurious texture and sweetness.
  • Fresh Herbs: A blend of fresh herbs like parsley, basil, or thyme adds freshness and a delightful herbal aroma to the sauce.
  • Kosher Salt and Black Pepper: These simple yet essential seasonings enhance the flavors and bring out the best in all the ingredients.

How To Make Olive Garden Garlic Sauce

Do you want delicious and savory garlic sauce to add flavor to any dish? Adding a homemade olive garden garlic sauce is the perfect way to elevate your cooking game. This easy-to-make garlicky condiment adds a delightful kick of flavor and will make your meal even more tempting for anyone who loves Italian food.

You can create an irresistibly flavorful pasta dish with just a few ingredients and some basic preparation knowledge! In today’s blog post, we’ll show you exactly how to make Olive Garden Garlic Sauce – from selecting the right ingredients for maximum taste all the way through prepping and serving it with mouthwatering results. So grab your chef hat (or apron) and join us as we walk you step by step through making this delicious saucy delight!

​Melt the Butter: Melt butter over medium-high heat in a large saucepan or a large skillet.

Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and saute garlic until fragrant and lightly golden, for about 1-2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.

Deglaze with White Wine: Pour the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, stirring and scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two until it reduces slightly.

Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.

Stir in the Heavy Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.

Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Remember that the saltiness can vary depending on the type of broth used, so adjust accordingly.

Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley, or parmesan cheese,  over the sauce for a burst of herbal freshness.

Serve and Enjoy: Use the Olive Garden Garlic Sauce over your favorite pasta dishes as a dip for breadsticks or a creamy sauce for other culinary creations.

Air-Fryer-Chicken-Alfredo-4

Pro Tips For Making Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Sauce

To achieve the perfect Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Sauce, here are some pro tips that will elevate the flavors and ensure a delightful culinary experience:

  • Use Fresh Garlic: Opt for fresh garlic cloves instead of pre-minced or jarred garlic for the best flavor. Mince the garlic to release its aromatic oils and provide an authentic taste.
  • Control Garlic Intensity: Adjust the amount of garlic based on your preference. If you love a robust garlic butter flavor, use more cloves. For a milder taste, reduce the amount of garlic.
  • Quality Butter and Olive Oil: Use high-quality unsalted butter and extra-virgin olive oil for a rich and authentic taste. Combining these fats is crucial for achieving the sauce’s creamy, buttery texture.
  • Choose a Good White Wine: Pick a dry white wine that you enjoy drinking since its flavor will infuse into the sauce. A Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well but experiment with your favorite variety.
  • Simmer to Enhance Flavor: Allow the sauce to simmer on low heat for a few minutes after adding the broth. This helps meld the flavors and ensures the wine and garlic fully infuse into the sauce.
  • Gradually Add Heavy Cream: Pour the heavy cream into the sauce, stirring continuously. This prevents curdling and ensures a smooth and velvety consistency.
  • Don’t Boil the Sauce: Avoid boiling the sauce, as it may cause separation and affect the texture. Keep the heat at a gentle simmer to maintain the creamy texture.
  • Add Parmesan Cheese (Optional): For a richer and cheesier flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of freshly grated cheese to the sauce during the simmering process. Another great option is Romano cheese. 
  • Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Just before serving, sprinkle the sauce with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and additional herbal freshness. Another option is adding garlic powder, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning, and this is a delicious sauce! 
  • Season Thoughtfully: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember that the flavors will intensify as the sauce simmers and thickens.
  • Pair with Your Favorite Pasta: Serve the Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Sauce over your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or penne, for a classic and comforting Italian meal.

With these pro tips, you can replicate the delightful flavors of Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce, creating a rich and creamy masterpiece that will impress your family and friends. Enjoy the restaurant-worthy experience right in the comfort of your home!

Air-Fryer-Chicken-Alfredo-4

FAQ’s Copycat Recipe Olive Garden Sauce​

Can I use pre-minced garlic for the sauce?

While fresh garlic is recommended for the best flavor, you can use pre-minced garlic in a pinch. However, remember that fresh garlic provides a more robust and authentic taste.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, before serving.

Can I freeze the sauce?

Yes, the sauce can be frozen for 2-3 months. Store it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Thaw the sauce in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop when ready to use.

Can I use a different type of wine?

If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth. However, the wine adds a unique depth of flavor to the sauce.

How can I make the sauce gluten-free?

To make the sauce gluten-free, ensure that all ingredients, including the broth and heavy cream, are labeled gluten-free. Verify that there are no hidden gluten-containing ingredients in any of the products.

Can I add other herbs to the sauce?

Absolutely! While the classic recipe uses parsley, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, oregano, or thyme to suit your taste preferences.

How do I prevent curdling when adding heavy cream?

Add the heavy cream slowly and stir continuously while pouring it into the sauce to prevent curdling. Keeping the heat on low or medium low also helps prevent curdling.

Can I use a dairy-free substitute for the heavy cream?

Yes, you can use a dairy-free substitute like coconut cream or almond milk creamer for a lactose-free version of the sauce.

What dishes can I pair the garlic sauce with?

The Copycat Olive Garden Garlic Sauce pairs beautifully with various pasta dishes, including fettuccine Alfredo, spaghetti, linguine, and penne. It also works as a dipping sauce for breadsticks or a creamy drizzle over grilled chicken or vegetables.

Can I customize the spiciness of the sauce?

If you prefer a spicier sauce, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder while sautéing the garlic.

How to serve Olive Garden Sauce

Olive Garden’s signature garlic sauce can be served in various ways to enhance and elevate your meals. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy and savor this flavorful sauce:

  • Pasta Topping: The most classic and popular way to serve Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce is as a delectable pasta topping. Pour the sauce over cooked pasta, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, angel hair pasta, or penne, and toss to coat the noodles evenly. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for an authentic Italian touch.
  • Breadstick Dip: Olive Garden’s garlic sauce pairs perfectly with their famous breadsticks. Warm the sauce slightly and use it as a dipping sauce for freshly baked or store-bought breadsticks. The combination of warm, buttery breadsticks and creamy garlic sauce is irresistible.
  • Chicken Alfredo: For a creamy and flavorful chicken Alfredo dish, cook seasoned chicken breasts in a skillet, and then add Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce along with heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken. Serve over cooked fettuccine or your favorite pasta.
  • Vegetable Drizzle: Roast or sauté your favorite fresh vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, red onions, or green bell peppers, and drizzle Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce over them before serving. The sauce adds a delicious flavor and elevates the veggies to a new level.
  • Shrimp Scampi: Create a mouthwatering shrimp scampi dish by sautéing shrimp with Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce, lemon juice, white wine, and butter. Serve this savory and aromatic shrimp scampi over linguine or spaghetti for a delightful seafood pasta experience.
  • Creamy Soup Base: Use Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce as a base for creamy soups. Add it to soups like creamy tomato basil or broccoli and cheese, and let the flavors meld together for a comforting and velvety soup.
  • Pizza Drizzle: Get creative and use the garlic sauce as a drizzle for homemade or store-bought pizza. Brush the sauce over the crust before adding toppings, or use it as a dipping sauce for a cheesy pizza experience.
  • Grilled Meat Glaze: Brush the garlic sauce over grilled meats like chicken, steak, or pork chops for flavor. The sauce adds a delightful and savory dimension to grilled dishes.

No matter how you choose to serve Olive Garden’s Garlic Sauce, it will elevate your culinary creations and leave you with a satisfying and delicious dining experience reminiscent of your favorite Italian restaurant. Enjoy the versatility of this iconic sauce!

More Recipes To Try

Air-Fryer-Chicken-Alfredo-4

Olive Garden Creamy Garlic Sauce

5 from 5 votes
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 8 Servings

Description

Olive Garden Creamy Garlic Sauce –– Ever been to Olive Garden? If you have, there's nothing quite like enjoying one of their signature dishes paired with some crispy garlic bread and a glass of Sangiovese.

Ingredients 

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 stick
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4-5 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup dry white wine
  • 1 cup chicken broth, or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Melt the Butter: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter.
  • Sauté the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the melted butter and sauté it until fragrant and lightly golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter.
  • Deglaze with White Wine: Pour in the dry white wine to deglaze the pan, stirring and scraping the bottom to release any browned bits. Let the wine simmer for a minute or two until it reduces slightly.
  • Add the Broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for a few minutes to blend the flavors.
  • Stir in the Heavy Cream: Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon.
  • Season to Taste: Season the sauce with salt and pepper to your liking. Remember that the saltiness can vary depending on the type of broth used, so adjust accordingly.
  • Garnish with Fresh Parsley: Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley over the sauce for a burst of herbal freshness.
  • Serve and Enjoy: Use the Olive Garden Garlic Sauce over your favorite pasta dishes, as a dip for breadsticks, or as a creamy sauce for other culinary creations.

Equipment

  • Sauce Pan

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 193kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 1gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 11gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gTrans Fat: 0.2gCholesterol: 49mgSodium: 127mgPotassium: 44mgFiber: 0.05gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 719IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 0.1mg

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