Are you craving that warm, gooey, irresistible bread dip that's a Carrabba's Italian Grill staple? Forget ordering takeout! This easy recipe lets you recreate the magic of that creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness right in your own kitchen. It's a perfect appetizer for a casual weeknight dinner, a crowd-pleasing party snack, or a comforting treat for a cozy night in. Get ready to experience the deliciousness of homemade Carrabba's bread dip – it's easier than you think!
Ingredients: A Simple Blend of Flavor
This recipe focuses on fresh, high-quality ingredients to achieve that authentic Carrabba's taste. You'll likely already have many of these items in your pantry!
- 1 (8 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup milk (or more, as needed)
- Crusty bread, for serving
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Deliciousness
Follow these simple steps, and you'll be enjoying your homemade Carrabba's bread dip in no time!
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Prep the ingredients: Begin by softening the cream cheese. This is easiest if you leave it out at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley while the cream cheese softens. Measure out all other ingredients for easy access.
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Combine the ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and mayonnaise. Mix until smooth and creamy using a whisk or electric mixer (a stand mixer works great too!).
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Add the flavor: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, parsley, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
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Adjust the consistency: If the mixture is too thick, gradually add milk, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. You want it to be creamy and spreadable.
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Bake (optional): For an extra warm and bubbly experience, transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through and slightly browned on top. This step is entirely optional but adds a lovely texture.
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Serve and enjoy: Serve your warm bread dip immediately with crusty bread for dipping. This is perfect with Italian bread, baguette slices, or even pita chips!
Cooking Tips for the Perfect Dip
- Soften the cream cheese properly: This is crucial for a smooth and creamy dip. Don’t skip this step!
- Don't overmix: Overmixing can incorporate too much air, leading to a slightly less creamy texture.
- Taste and adjust: Before baking (if baking), taste the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed. You might want more garlic, oregano, or salt, depending on your preferences.
- Get creative with your bread: Experiment with different types of bread for dipping – focaccia, ciabatta, or even toasted crostini would be delicious!
Variations: Spice it Up!
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Incorporate a tablespoon or two of chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an intense burst of flavor.
- Roasted garlic: For a deeper, sweeter garlic flavor, use roasted garlic instead of raw minced garlic.
- Herbs de Provence: Substitute the oregano and basil with a teaspoon of Herbs de Provence for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 12-15g
- Protein: 3-4g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
This easy and delicious Carrabba's copycat bread dip is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!