Olive Garden is one of America’s most popular Italian-American chain restaurants, known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and hearty meals that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner with family or grabbing a quick lunch with friends, Olive Garden has a broad selection of dishes to choose from. But what are the most popular dishes on the Olive Garden menu? Let’s explore some of the standout items that have earned their spot as fan favorites.
1. Tour of Italy
The Tour of Italy is a classic dish on the Olive Garden menu that offers a taste of Italy in one meal. This combination plate includes three Italian favorites: Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico, and Fettuccine Alfredo.
Each item brings its own unique flavors to the table, from the crispy, breaded chicken topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella, to the rich, creamy Alfredo pasta, and the savory, cheesy layers of lasagna. This dish allows guests to experience a variety of flavors, making it a top choice for those looking to try a little bit of everything.
2. Chicken Alfredo
For those who crave a creamy pasta dish, the Chicken Alfredo is a fan-favorite at Olive Garden. This dish features tender, juicy chicken served atop fettuccine pasta and covered in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese.
The indulgent nature of this dish makes it a popular choice for pasta lovers, and it pairs well with the warm, freshly baked breadsticks that Olive Garden is famous for. The creamy texture of the sauce combined with the perfectly cooked chicken makes this dish a satisfying comfort food favorite.
3. Lasagna Classico
Lasagna is a classic Italian dish, and Olive Garden’s Lasagna Classico has become a beloved staple on their menu. This dish consists of layers of pasta, meat sauce, mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked to perfection.
What sets Olive Garden’s lasagna apart is the balance of flavors and the perfect melt of cheeses, making each bite a flavorful experience. Whether you’re a fan of hearty meat dishes or prefer a comforting vegetarian lasagna, this classic dish offers something for everyone.
4. Fettuccine Alfredo
The Fettuccine Alfredo is one of the most iconic dishes at Olive Garden. Known for its creamy texture and rich, flavorful sauce, this dish is a simple yet satisfying choice for pasta lovers.
Made with fettuccine pasta and a sauce of butter, cream, and Parmesan, the Fettuccine Alfredo is the perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. This dish is often enjoyed with a side of Olive Garden’s signature breadsticks, making it a go-to option for many.
5. Shrimp Scampi
For those looking for a lighter seafood option, Shrimp Scampi offers a delightful combination of shrimp, garlic, butter, and olive oil, served with pasta. This dish is a flavorful and zesty choice, with the shrimp cooked to perfection and tossed in a sauce that includes hints of lemon and white wine.
The Shrimp Scampi is served with a choice of pasta, and the combination of the tender shrimp and the savory, citrusy sauce creates a dish that’s fresh, vibrant, and full of flavor. It’s a popular choice for those who enjoy seafood and lighter pasta options.
6. Zuppa Toscana
If you’re in the mood for something hearty and comforting, Zuppa Toscana is a must-try soup on the Olive Garden menu. This rich and flavorful soup is made with Italian sausage, kale, potatoes, and a creamy broth that brings all the ingredients together into a satisfying, soul-warming dish.
The Zuppa Toscana has become a favorite for its bold flavors and creamy texture, making it a great choice to start off your meal. It’s especially popular during the colder months, offering a comforting and warming option to enjoy with your meal.
7. Eggplant Parmigiana
For vegetarians or anyone looking for a meat-free option, Eggplant Parmigiana is a great choice. This dish features breaded and fried slices of eggplant, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s similar to the classic Chicken Parmigiana but offers a unique twist with the eggplant.
Served with a side of pasta, the Eggplant Parmigiana is a flavorful and satisfying dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine while catering to those with dietary preferences. The crispy texture of the eggplant combined with the rich tomato sauce makes it a favorite on the Olive Garden menu.
8. Tuscany Salad
For those looking to add a refreshing, light option to their meal, the Tuscany Salad is a popular choice. This salad is a blend of fresh greens, tomatoes, and Italian dressing, often served with slices of pepperoncini peppers and olives.
The Tuscany Salad is a perfect side dish to complement any main course, providing a fresh and vibrant contrast to the rich and creamy pastas and entrees on the menu. It’s light, crunchy, and packed with flavor, making it a great way to start your meal or add a healthy side to your dish.
9. Stuffed Chicken Marsala
Stuffed Chicken Marsala is another popular choice at Olive Garden, offering a deliciously savory chicken dish. The chicken breasts are stuffed with a blend of cheeses and herbs, then pan-seared and smothered in a rich Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. The sauce adds a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the tender chicken.
This dish is often served with a side of pasta, making it a great option for those who want a hearty, flavorful meal with a little extra flair. The balance of the stuffed chicken and the savory wine sauce makes the Stuffed Chicken Marsala a standout dish on the Olive Garden menu.
10. Olive Garden Breadsticks
Though not technically an entrée, Olive Garden’s breadsticks are an iconic part of the dining experience. These warm, buttery, and garlicky breadsticks are free with every meal and are a favorite among guests.
The breadsticks are soft, pillowy, and perfect for dipping in Olive Garden’s famous marinara sauce or pairing with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Their addictive nature has made them a beloved part of the Olive Garden menu.
Final Thoughts on the Olive Garden Menu
With a variety of mouthwatering options, Olive Garden has something for everyone. From hearty pasta dishes like Chicken Alfredo and Fettuccine Alfredo to lighter choices like Shrimp Scampi, the Olive Garden menu offers a wide range of options that appeal to different tastes and dietary preferences.
Whether you’re in the mood for Italian classics like Lasagna Classico and Eggplant Parmigiana or want to enjoy a comforting bowl of Zuppa Toscana, there’s no shortage of delicious meals to choose from. The combination of flavorful dishes, warm breadsticks, and an inviting atmosphere makes Olive Garden a top destination for those craving Italian-American cuisine.
If you’re planning your next meal at Olive Garden, be sure to check out some of these popular dishes—they’re sure to satisfy your hunger and leave you craving more!
Skip to content