When it comes to Italian-American cuisine, Olive Garden stands out as a favorite dining spot for millions.
Beyond its famous pasta dishes and hearty entrées, Olive Garden’s Sauce and Side Menu plays a crucial role in elevating its meals. Whether you’re looking to customize your order, add a bit more flavor, or enjoy a side dish as a standalone treat, Olive Garden’s variety of sauces and sides offer something for everyone.
This blog post takes an in-depth look at the Olive Garden Sauce and Side Menu, complete with descriptions, pricing, customization options, and insider tips to help you make the most of your meal.
Olive Garden Sauce Options
Sauces are the heart of Italian cooking, and Olive Garden offers a range of delicious sauces that can be paired with various dishes. Here’s a breakdown of the sauces available on the menu:
Popular Sauces at Olive Garden
| Sauce | Description | Best Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Alfredo Sauce | Creamy, rich sauce made with butter, cream, and Parmesan | Fettuccine, Chicken Alfredo |
| Marinara Sauce | Classic tomato-based sauce with herbs and garlic | Spaghetti, Breadsticks |
| Five Cheese Marinara | Blend of five cheeses with Olive Garden’s signature marinara | Ziti, Ravioli |
| Meat Sauce | Hearty marinara infused with seasoned ground beef and pork | Spaghetti, Lasagna |
| Garlic Butter Sauce | Buttery, garlicky delight | Shrimp, Breadsticks |
| Pesto Sauce | Basil-based sauce with Parmesan and olive oil | Grilled Chicken, Pasta |
Customization Options
- Ask for extra sauce on any pasta dish for an additional charge.
- Substitute one sauce for another (e.g., swap marinara for Alfredo).
- Request a side of sauce to dip breadsticks or enhance your meal.
Olive Garden Side Menu
No meal is complete without delicious sides to complement your main course. Olive Garden’s side dishes add flavor and texture, making your meal more enjoyable.
Top Side Dishes at Olive Garden
| Side Dish | Description | Price (Approx.) |
| Famous House Salad | Fresh lettuce, tomatoes, olives, and croutons with dressing | $6.99 |
| Garlic Breadsticks | Warm, soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter | Included with meal |
| Parmesan-Crusted Zucchini | Sliced zucchini baked with Parmesan | $5.49 |
| Roasted Parmesan Broccoli | Steamed broccoli tossed in Parmesan | $5.99 |
| Mashed Potatoes | Creamy mashed potatoes with butter and seasoning | $4.99 |
| Side of Meatballs | Three Italian-seasoned meatballs with marinara | $4.99 |
| Soup of the Day | Rotating selection of fresh soups | $6.99 |
How to Pair Sides with Your Meal
- Order Garlic Breadsticks with a side of Alfredo sauce for dipping.
- Pair Roasted Parmesan Broccoli with grilled chicken dishes for a balanced meal.
- Enjoy Mashed Potatoes with a steak or salmon entrée for extra heartiness.
Why Olive Garden’s Sauces and Sides Stand Out
1. High-Quality Ingredients
Olive Garden prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their sauces are made in-house daily, and the sides are freshly prepared to ensure the best flavor.
2. Endless Customization
Customers can modify their meals in many ways:
- Add extra cheese or spice to any sauce.
- Choose multiple sides to create a meal that fits your taste.
- Swap traditional sides for healthier options like steamed broccoli.
3. Affordable Pricing & Great Value
One of the biggest perks of dining at Olive Garden is the affordable prices and generous portions. The endless breadsticks and salad make for an unbeatable value when paired with your favorite entrée.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Olive Garden’s Sauce and Side Menu
1. Try Sauce Combinations
Mixing sauces can enhance your meal. A great example is combining Alfredo and Marinara for a creamy, tangy mix.
2. Ask for Extra Sauce on the Side
If you love extra flavor, order a small side of sauce. It works well for dipping breadsticks or drizzling over your meal.
3. Substitute Sides for Healthier Options
If you’re watching your diet, swap heavier sides like mashed potatoes for steamed broccoli or zucchini.
4. Take Advantage of Unlimited Soup, Salad, and Breadsticks
This is one of the best value deals at Olive Garden. You can order an entrée and still enjoy unlimited salad and breadsticks, making it a filling and cost-effective meal.
FAQs About Olive Garden’s Sauce and Side Menu
1. Can I order a side of sauce at Olive Garden?
Yes! Olive Garden allows guests to order a side of any sauce for dipping or extra flavor.
2. Are Olive Garden’s sauces made fresh daily?
Yes! Olive Garden’s sauces, including Alfredo, Marinara, and Meat Sauce, are made fresh every day in-house.
3. What is the best sauce at Olive Garden?
This depends on your preference! Alfredo sauce is popular for its creamy texture, while the Five Cheese Marinara is loved for its rich, cheesy flavor.
4. Are there any gluten-free sauce options?
Yes! Olive Garden’s Marinara and Meat Sauce are gluten-free. Always confirm with your server for the latest ingredient information.
5. Can I get extra cheese or spice in my sauce?
Absolutely! You can ask for extra Parmesan or crushed red pepper to enhance your sauce’s flavor.
Final Thoughts
The Olive Garden Sauce and Side Menu offers plenty of ways to customize and enhance your dining experience. Whether you love creamy Alfredo, rich marinara, or buttery garlic sauce, there’s a perfect pairing for every dish.
With affordable sides, endless customization, and high-quality ingredients, Olive Garden ensures that every meal is flavorful and satisfying.
Next time you visit Olive Garden, use this guide to make the most of your meal and try some exciting new sauce and side combinations!
Would you like more restaurant menu breakdowns? Let us know in the comments!