Name: Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon crushed red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon freshly cracked black pepper; 1 tablespoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon dried basil; 1 tablespoon dried parsley; 1 1/2 teaspoons garlic powder; 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse sea salt; 3 cloves fresh garlic, freshly crushed or minced; Extra virgin olive oil (approximately 1/3 cup per serving portion)

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 2 reviews

If you have ever savored the warm, fragrant bread at Carrabba’s Italian Grill, you know that the real magic often comes from the dipping oil. This Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe brings that beloved experience right into your kitchen, capturing the perfect balance of herbs, garlic, and olive oil that makes each bite unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy night in, this simple yet flavorful oil will elevate your bread dipping game with flavors that are impossibly fresh and addictively delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white round plate holds nine small piles of spices and seasonings arranged in a circle on a white marbled surface. Starting from the top center going clockwise, the first pile is white coarse salt with a rough texture, followed by dark red chili flakes with yellow seeds, then a mix of green dried herbs, light brown thin dried stems, a pile of fine yellow granules, a pale orange coarse powder, a small pile of fine white salt with some black specs, dark black pepper ground finely, and finally another pile of green dried herbs with a rough texture. The spices are close but not touching each other, creating a colorful and textured display. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component is essential, delivering the perfect blend of herbal notes, a punch of garlic, and the smooth richness of olive oil.

Crushed red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle kick that awakens the palate without overwhelming the dish.
Freshly cracked black pepper: Offers a fresh, sharp spice to brighten the oil.
Dried oregano: Brings a classic Mediterranean aroma and flavor that pairs beautifully with bread.
Dried basil: Lends a sweet, slightly peppery essence that enhances overall depth.
Dried parsley: Adds a hint of earthiness and fresh color to the mixture.
Garlic powder: Intensifies the garlic aroma while blending smoothly into the oil.
Onion powder: Provides a gentle savory undertone that complements the garlic.
Dried rosemary: Offers pine-like fragrance and a pleasant bite of herbaceous flavor.
Coarse sea salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the brightness of all ingredients.
Fresh garlic cloves: The heart of the recipe, freshly crushed to infuse natural pungency and texture.
Extra virgin olive oil: The silky base that carries the herbs and spices, delivering richness and smooth mouthfeel.

How to Make Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Dry Ingredients

Start by placing your crushed red pepper flakes, freshly cracked black pepper, dried oregano, basil, parsley, garlic powder, onion powder, dried rosemary, and coarse sea salt together in a bowl. Mixing these dried herbs and spices first ensures an even distribution of flavors throughout your dipping oil.

Step 2: Add Fresh Garlic

Next, grate or finely mince three fresh garlic cloves and mix them thoroughly with your dried ingredient blend. The fresh garlic infuses the mixture with that unmistakable, vibrant punch that’s signature to Carrabba’s oil.

Step 3: Combine with Olive Oil

When you’re ready to serve, take about one tablespoon of your spice and herb mixture and place it in a shallow dish or small bowl. Pour in approximately 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil and stir gently to marry the flavors. This step brings everything together, creating that luscious dipping oil that you’ll want to dip crusty bread into again and again.

How to Serve Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

A white shallow bowl filled with bright yellow olive oil, topped with a layer of mixed dried herbs and red chili flakes evenly spread across the surface. Around the bowl are many pieces of light tan crusty bread with a soft, airy inside, placed standing up and leaning on the bowl's edge, creating a circular frame. The bowl rests on a wooden board on a white marbled surface. To the left near the bowl are three garlic cloves, and to the right is a clear bottle with golden olive oil. A folded dark blue cloth is partially visible at the bottom right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a visual and flavor boost, sprinkle a few fresh parsley leaves or a tiny pinch of freshly grated Parmesan cheese atop your dipping oil. These simple garnishes add a fresh aroma and a touch of elegance to your presentation.

Side Dishes

This dipping oil pairs beautifully with not only Italian bread but also with freshly baked focaccia, warm baguette slices, or even crunchy breadsticks. It’s an ideal companion to light salads or antipasto platters, enhancing the entire meal with its herbaceous charm.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic bowl. Try serving the oil in miniature terracotta bowls to add rustic charm or alongside a cheese board to wow your guests. For a cozy dinner at home, drizzle the oil over warm focaccia for an irresistible, shareable appetizer.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’ve made a larger batch of the spice blend, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place for up to several months. Keep the dipping oil mixture separate with olive oil added just before serving to maintain freshness and flavor intensity.

Freezing

Since olive oil’s texture and flavor can change after freezing, it is not recommended to freeze the dipping oil itself. Instead, freeze the dried spice blend in an airtight container, then combine with fresh olive oil when you’re ready to serve.

Reheating

This dipping oil is best served at room temperature, as heating can dull the bright flavors and aromas. Simply take it out of the fridge ahead of time to allow the oil to come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I adjust the spiciness of this oil?

Absolutely! You can reduce the crushed red pepper flakes to lower the heat or increase them for a spicier kick. This recipe is very forgiving, so feel free to customize it to your taste.

What type of bread works best for dipping?

Crusty, artisan breads like sourdough, ciabatta, or french baguettes work wonderfully. Their texture holds up well to the oil, making every dip enjoyable.

Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Fresh herbs can be used, but you’ll want to use a larger quantity since dried herbs are more concentrated. Fresh basil, parsley, and oregano can add a vibrant lift, but try mixing fresh and dried for optimal flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

Yes! All the ingredients in the Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe are plant-based, making it perfect for vegan diets.

How long does the seasoning blend last?

Stored properly in an airtight container away from light and heat, the spice blend can stay fresh for up to six months, allowing you to enjoy this recipe anytime.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the joy of dipping warm bread into a rich, flavorful oil, and this Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe delivers that pleasure effortlessly. It’s easy to prepare, uses simple ingredients, and brings a little taste of your favorite Italian restaurant straight to your table. Give it a try, and trust me, your guests will keep coming back for more of this irresistible dip!

Copycat Carrabba’s Bread Dipping Oil Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need