If you’re a fan of creamy, flavorful Italian pasta, then you’re going to love this Pasta Carrabba Recipe! Inspired by the famous Carrabba’s Italian Grill, this homemade version is packed with grilled chicken, a rich Alfredo sauce, sautéed mushrooms, and green peas, all tossed with fettuccine pasta to create an irresistible meal.
Making Pasta Carrabba Recipe at home is surprisingly simple. With fresh ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can bring restaurant-quality Italian flavors straight to your kitchen. If you’re looking for an authentic version, check out this Pasta Carrabba Copycat Recipe or read about how to grill the juiciest chicken for better results.
Why You’ll Love This Pasta Carrabba Recipe
✔️ Authentic Italian flavors – This dish is rich, creamy, and tastes just like Carrabba’s Italian Grill.
✔️ Easy to make at home – No need to dine out; you can recreate this restaurant-quality dish effortlessly.
✔️ Customizable – You can swap chicken for shrimp, add spices, or make it vegetarian!
✔️ Perfect for any occasion – Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special celebration, this pasta will impress.
Ingredients for Pasta Carrabba Recipe
For the Chicken Marinade:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 6 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (or 4 tsp dried basil)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- ¼ cup butter
- 2 medium shallots, finely chopped
- 8 oz fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tsp minced garlic
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 9 oz fresh fettuccine
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
How to Make Pasta Carrabba Recipe – Step-by-Step Guide
1. Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, and basil.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours (overnight is best).
2. Cook the Chicken
- Preheat your grill or oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Remove the chicken from the marinade and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- If using an oven: Bake for 30 minutes or until fully cooked.
- If using a grill: Cook for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Once done, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add chopped shallots and sliced mushrooms, sautéing until soft.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy whipping cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly.
- Season with salt and black pepper, then simmer for 2-3 minutes until thick.
- Add the frozen peas, allowing them to heat through.
4. Cook the Fettuccine
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.
5. Assemble the Dish
- Add the sliced chicken to the Alfredo sauce, stirring to combine.
- Toss in the cooked fettuccine, ensuring it is fully coated with sauce.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess.
6. Serve & Garnish
- Plate the pasta and top with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil.
- Serve with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Pasta Carrabba Recipe – Customizations & Variations
1. Spicy Pasta Carrabba
🔥 Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes to the Alfredo sauce for a spicy kick.
2. Shrimp Pasta Carrabba
🦐 Replace the grilled chicken with sautéed shrimp for a seafood version.
3. Vegetarian Pasta Carrabba
🌱 Omit the chicken and double the mushrooms for a hearty meat-free dish.
4. Lemon Butter Pasta Carrabba
🍋 Add 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice to the sauce for a light citrusy flavor.
Pro Tips for Making the Best Pasta Carrabba Recipe
✔️ Use fresh Parmesan cheese – It melts better than pre-grated cheese.
✔️ Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente for the best texture.
✔️ Grill the chicken for extra flavor – It adds a smoky depth to the dish.
✔️ Let the sauce simmer – This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pasta Carrabba Recipe
Q1: Can I make Pasta Carrabba Recipe ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare the sauce and chicken separately, then combine everything when reheating.
Q2: What’s the best pasta for this recipe?
Fettuccine is the best choice because it holds the sauce well. However, linguine or penne also work.
Q3: Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Use half-and-half for a better texture.
Q4: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Heat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of heavy cream to prevent dryness.
Conclusion – A Must-Try Italian Classic!
This Pasta Carrabba Recipe is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, making it one of the best Italian pasta dishes you can prepare at home. Whether you’re looking for a restaurant-style dinner or a comforting homemade meal, this pasta delivers authentic Italian goodness in every bite.
Try making Pasta Carrabba Recipe tonight and impress your family with a dish that tastes like it came straight from an Italian restaurant! 🇮🇹🍝