Olive Garden Catering Menu

Did you know a single catering station can serve more than a hundred guests over a full event day when planned right? That scale shows why choosing the right service matters for comfort-food gatherings.

You’ll find three simple formats to fit most events: bundled meal combinations that feed groups, pans for smaller servings, and a create-your-own pasta station for interactive dining. Each choice lists portions and prices so you can match your headcount without guesswork.

Expect classics such as creamy Alfredo, baked ziti, and lasagna served hot. Orders usually require 24-hour notice and include utensils, table covers, handy graters, and Sterno fuel so setup stays easy for you.

Delivery minimums and fees vary by city, so the guide that follows explains costs, delivery rules, and helpful timing tips. Read on to see which options fit your timeline, budget, and the kind of food your guests love.

Start Here: The Buyer’s Guide to Stress‑Free Olive Garden Catering

Start by matching the event vibe to the feeding style that makes service easy and guests happy. Early choice of format shapes cost, timing, and how people move through food lines.

Match your event type to the right catering format

Meal Combinations serve 8–14 and include entrées, salad, breadsticks, and dessert. They work well for meetings and family gatherings.

The Create Your Own Pasta Station begins near $13.50 per person ($145.00 station). It includes salad, breadsticks, and setup. Choose this for mingling events and mixed tastes.

À la carte pans serve 4–6. Popular picks include Chicken Alfredo, Lasagna Classico, and Five Cheese Ziti. Pans help when arrivals are staggered.

Commercial intent: value, convenience, and crowd‑pleasing picks

Format	Serves	Best for
Meal Combination	8–14	Lunch meetings, small groups
Pasta Station	Per person pricing	Interactive events
À La Carte Pans	4–6	Flexible portions

• Decide headcount, then pick the format that fits budget and service flow.
• Place your order at least 24 hours ahead; call for same‑day checks.
• Plan for dietary needs by mixing a gluten‑sensitive and a vegetarian pan.

Olive Garden Catering Menu

Here’s a concise rundown of categories, servings, and prices to help you pick the right dishes for your event.

What’s on the menu today: categories, servings, and prices

The offering splits into three choices: bundled combinations, a create‑your‑own pasta station, and à la carte pans for 4–6 people. Combinations (Chicken Parmigiana or Lasagna) list at $227.50 and serve 8–14.

The pasta station starts at $145.00 and includes salad, 12 breadsticks, and setup. Pans scale easily; common prices run from $50–$76 depending on entrée and size.

Popular picks

Guest favorites include Chicken Alfredo ($67.99–$76.99), Lasagna Classico (up to 6: $53.49; up to 12: $63.49), and Five Cheese Ziti al Forno ($54.49). Spaghetti with marinara or meat sauce sits around $50.49–$59.99.

Category	Serves	Sample price
Meal Combination	8–14	$227.50
Pasta Station	Per person	$145.00 (station)
À La Carte Pan	4–6	$54–$76

• Balance sauces: offer one cream and one red (marinara or marinara meat sauce).
• Add Shrimp Scampi or Chicken Parmigiana for variety.
• Order the jumbo salad with 12 breadsticks ($24.99) to anchor the spread.

Meal Combinations for Groups: Bundled Value with Salad and Breadsticks

Bundled meal options give you a full spread with one simple order. Choose this path when you want a complete plate without juggling pans and add‑ons.

Chicken Parmigiana Combination — serves 8–14 | $227.50

This combination brings breaded chicken topped with marinara over spaghetti. It serves 8–14 and totals about 22,020–25,550 calories per package.

Lasagna Combination — serves 8–14 | $227.50

Lasagna layers pasta, seasoned meat, and Italian cheese for a homestyle option. The package runs about 23,570–27,100 calories.

What’s included and when bundles win

• Each combination includes a jumbo house salad, warm breadsticks, and desserts like tiramisu or cheesecake.
• Bundles cut planning time, control prices per guest, and simplify service for fixed‑time events.
• Add one extra pan (for example, Five Cheese Ziti) if you need variety for picky eaters.

Item	Serves	Price
Chicken Parmigiana Combination	8–14	$227.50
Lasagna Combination	8–14	$227.50
Includes	Salad & Breadsticks	Desserts

Create Your Own Pasta Station: Interactive Catering Guests Love

A DIY pasta station turns dinner into a small, friendly gathering where guests craft their own plates. It starts at about $13.50 per person or $145.00 for the station. Your order includes a jumbo house salad, a dozen breadsticks, and chafing setup so food stays warm.

Sample station build and service tips

Offer two pastas like penne and fettuccine. Pair them with sauces such as marinara sauce and Alfredo. Add toppings: grilled chicken, meatballs, roasted vegetables, and steamed broccoli for balance.

• Label pans and place pastas first, then sauces, then proteins.
• Order extra sauce if your group loves creamy plates.
• Best suited for corporate events, team gatherings, and mixed-taste crowds.

Item	Included	Price
Station Base	Salad, Breadsticks, Setup	$145.00 / station
Per Person	Pasta + 2 Sauces + Toppings	≈ $13.50 per person
Suggested Sauces	Marinara Sauce, Alfredo	Extra sauce available

À La Carte Pans: Flexible Trays for 4-6 People

À la carte pans give you control: pick a few trays and mix flavors to suit any group size. These pans serve 4–6 and work well when guests arrive at different times or want variety.

Core entrées and prices

Choose crowd favorites that pair easily. Chicken Alfredo runs about $67.99–$76.99 and feeds 4–6. Shrimp Scampi is listed at $71.99 for a pan that serves 4–6.

Five Cheese Ziti al Forno is $54.49. Other options include Spaghetti with marinara or meat sauce ($50.49–$59.99) and Lasagna Classico (up to 6: $53.49).

Mix-and-match sides, sauces, and add‑ons

Round out plates with simple add-ons. Italian meatballs cost $21.99 and broccoli is $19.99. An Alfredo Dipping Sauce ($11.49) is handy for breadsticks and extra sauciness.

Scaling up: combining multiple pans

Two pans feed roughly 8–12; three pans cover 12–18. If you expect hearty eaters, add an extra ziti or lasagna pan so no one leaves hungry.

• Anchor the spread with chicken alfredo, add shrimp and ziti for protein and texture variety.
• Keep one red and one white: pair spaghetti with marinara sauce or meat sauce beside a creamy pan.
• Label trays so guests spot shrimp and meat options at a glance.

Item	Serves	Price
Chicken Alfredo	4–6	$67.99–$76.99
Shrimp Scampi	4–6	$71.99
Five Cheese Ziti al Forno	4–6	$54.49
Spaghetti (Marinara / Meat)	4–6	$50.49–$59.99

This section helps you plan pans for a fuss-free spread. For help finalizing quantities, the olive garden catering team can advise based on appetite and event length.

Soups, Salad, Breadsticks, Appetizers, and Desserts

Warm, sharable starters set the tone for any gathering and keep lines moving at your buffet.

The famous jumbo house salad with 12 breadsticks is an easy crowd-pleaser. Priced at $24.99, the jumbo house salad includes breadsticks and feeds a group that wants a fresh starter before mains.

Soups are handy for tight schedules. Homemade soups serve 6 for $20.29 or a large serves 12 for $31.99. Pair soup with breadsticks for a tidy, office-friendly meal.

Appetizers and dipping choices

Offer Fried Mozzarella ($32.99), Spinach‑Artichoke Dip ($27.99), and Toasted Beef Ravioli ($33.99). The ravioli pairs especially well with a warm marinara dipping sauce.

• Keep a trio of sauces: Alfredo ($11.49), Five Cheese Marinara ($9.99), and Marinara ($9.99).
• Add a meat dipping sauce ($9.99) or a side of meatballs to bulk up snack plates.
• Label sauces so guests can spot the cheese marinara dipping option quickly.

Sweet finish

Finish with classic desserts that travel well: Tiramisu ($42.49–$78.99), Sicilian Cheesecake ($42.49–$78.99), or Black Tie Mousse Cake ($42.99).

For a larger sweet table, add the mousse cake to satisfy chocolate lovers without extra fuss.

Item	Serves	Price	Notes
Jumbo House Salad + 12 Breadsticks	6–8	$24.99	Salad includes breadsticks; start of buffet
Homemade Soup	6 / 12	$20.29 / $31.99	Light, office-friendly with breadsticks
Fried Mozzarella / Spinach‑Artichoke / Toasted Beef Ravioli	8–12	$32.99 / $27.99 / $33.99	Pair ravioli with marinara dipping sauce
Tiramisu / Sicilian Cheesecake / Black Tie Mousse Cake	8–16	$42.49–$78.99 / $42.49–$78.99 / $42.99	Classic desserts for a simple finish

Place salad at the front of your buffet so plates balance before guests reach heavier items. For ordering specifics and setup tips, consult the ordering guide.

Pricing, Portions, and How Much to Order for Your Headcount

Planning portions is the simplest way to keep your event on budget and avoid hungry guests. Start with the basics: pans serve 4–6 people, while combinations cover 8–14. Lasagna Classico is also offered in a larger pan that serves up to 12.

Practical ordering math

For a group of 20, aim for 3–4 entrée pans, two jumbo salads, and about three dozen breadsticks. That mix keeps plates full and offers variety without overbuying.

Budget ranges by format

Combinations start at $227.50 and bundle a full meal with sides and dessert. The Create Your Own Pasta Station lists at $145.00 and gives a clear per-person baseline with setup. À la carte pans range from Five Cheese Ziti at $54.49 to Chicken Alfredo around $67.99–$76.99.

• Combinations give better per-person value when you want dessert and sides included.
• The pasta option is ideal when you want variety and no extra setup work.
• À la carte pans let you spend on crowd favorites and control portions.

Format	Serves	Sample Price
Combination	8–14	$227.50
Pasta Station	Per person / station	$145.00
À la carte pan (Five Cheese Ziti)	4–6	$54.49
À la carte pan (Chicken Alfredo)	4–6	$67.99–$76.99

When in doubt, round up a pan: leftovers reheat well. Confirm your final order with the event host and, if you need to place or adjust your order, visit the order page for help and local options.

Dietary Needs Covered: Gluten‑Sensitive, Vegetarian, and Modifiable Dishes

Simple swaps and clear labels make it possible to serve diverse diets without extra stress.

For gluten-sensitive guests, request gluten-free penne and pick marinara or meat sauce. Ask that the house salad is served without croutons. A small, dedicated pan of gluten-free pasta keeps introductions low and guests comfortable.

Vegetarian picks and easy swaps

Vegetarian favorites include Five Cheese Ziti, Cheese Ravioli, and Eggplant Parmigiana. These are filling choices that do not require major changes to your plan.

• Label pans clearly so guests find safe dishes fast.
• For dairy-avoidance, choose tomato-forward marinara and roasted vegetables on the side.
• You can often omit cheese or swap chicken for a vegetarian protein when you order ahead.

Cross‑contact and customization

Kitchens handle wheat and dairy. Tell staff about severe allergies so they can take extra care. Keep serving utensils separate to reduce cross-contact and confirm special requests at pickup or delivery.

Dish	Gluten‑free safe	Vegetarian
Penne with Marinara	Yes	No
Five Cheese Ziti	No	Yes
Cheese Ravioli	No	Yes

Logistics and Delivery: Lead Times, Fees, and Regional Differences

Timing and local rules shape how smooth your delivery will feel on event day.

Plan ahead: most locations ask for at least 24 hours’ notice. In Los Angeles, next‑day orders often need to be placed by 5:00 PM for lunch service.

Ordering windows and fees

Typical delivery minimums run about $100. Some cities, like Chicago, list a $75 minimum.

• Expect a 10% fee on orders up to $500 in many markets.
• New York locations may charge 15% on orders under $500; fees drop to 5% for larger totals.
• When you place your order, confirm any local minimums and the exact fee schedule.

What arrives and how it’s handled

Deliveries include utensils, plates, napkins, graters, table covers, and Sterno fuel so food stays warm.

Service is drop‑off with setup support only. Your team handles serving and replenishing.

Item	Typical inclusion	Notes
Lead time	24 hours (LA: cutoff 5:00 PM)	Ask about same‑day availability
Minimum	$75–$100	Varies by market
Fee	10% up to $500 (NY 15% under $500)	5% above $500

Day‑of tips

• Stage breadsticks and house salad at the front of the line, then pasta and sauces like marinara.
• Confirm building access, loading dock times, and elevator windows when you order.
• Check chafing fuel and have extras for long events; confirm a phone number for day‑of coordination.
• If timing is tight, consider pickup to keep your timeline flexible.

These steps keep your olive garden catering delivery on schedule and your guests happy. A clear plan makes the food the easy part.

Real‑World Feedback: Quality, Portions, and Pro Tips

Real reviews point to a few consistent wins and a couple of easy service tweaks. Guests praise rich, creamy dishes and hearty portions. They also offer simple fixes you can plan for in advance.

What guests rave about

People often call out the creamy chicken alfredo and how large pans stretch further than expected.

A large Lasagna Classico can feed up to 12 comfortably and usually leaves a few leftovers for later.

Constructive notes and quick fixes

Some events report light sauce on plates. Add a side of Alfredo or marinara dipping sauce to keep servings saucy from first to last.

Breadsticks arrive best fresh; a brief reheat restores warmth and texture.

Serving tips to keep food at its best

• Schedule delivery about 30–60 minutes early to stage chafers and check Sterno fuel.
• Place ziti and lasagna nearest the heat source; they hold temperature well.
• Add meatballs, shrimp, or extra chicken for protein variety and to entice seconds.
• Label pans so guests spot favorites like cheese ziti or chicken alfredo without lifting lids.
• Assign someone to spot‑check sauce levels and refill as needed during service.

Guest note	Action	Result
Light sauce	Add extra Alfredo or marinara	Plates stay moist
Cold breadsticks	Quick oven reheat	Warm texture restored
Large pans	Label & position by heat	Efficient service, fewer complaints

Olive Garden vs. Carrabba’s: Which Fits Your Event and Budget

When budget and taste diverge, a side‑by‑side comparison helps you pick the best fit for your event.

Value and portions vs. broader, wood‑grilled variety

One option stands out for value. It offers generous meal combinations, large pasta pans, unlimited salad, and breadsticks. That makes it simple to feed a crowd on a budget.

By contrast, Carrabba’s focuses on wood‑grilled meat and a wider flavor range. You get grilled chicken, steak, and elevated desserts like Sogno Di Cioccolata. Prices trend higher but the variety often feels more upscale.

When to choose each for taste, price, and menu depth

Pick the value-driven choice when price and portion matter most. It works well when you want ravioli, parmigiana, shrimp, or chicken served without fuss.

Choose Carrabba’s when you want grilled meat options and inventive appetizers. It’s a better fit if your group wants premium appetizers and desserts.

• Add a marinara dipping sauce to bread for extra value.
• Balance one meat-forward entrée with a vegetarian pan for broad appeal.

Feature	Value Option	Carrabba’s
Strength	Generous portions, pasta focus	Wood‑grilled meats, variety
Best for	Large groups, low prices	Smaller events, elevated tasting
Typical add-ons	Extra sauce, jumbo salad	Premium appetizers, desserts

How to Order and Save: Online, Phone, App, and Occasional Deals

How you place the order often determines price, timing, and how smoothly delivery arrives.

You can order online at OliveGarden.com/Catering, call your local store, place the order in person, or use the restaurant app. Some locations also accept third‑party apps for convenience.

Most kitchens ask for at least 24 hours’ notice so pans and a pasta station come out fresh. Deliveries typically include utensils, chafers, table covers, and Sterno fuel.

Ways to save and what to ask about

• Check for first‑time discounts (sometimes 10% off) or large‑order promos before you confirm your order.
• Third‑party reward partners may offer gift cards or credits; CaterCow has run $50 OG gift-card deals and redeemable rewards.
• Ask if your date qualifies for a large-order discount and whether promos apply to delivery or pickup.

Order Path	Best for	Note
Website	Quick repeat orders	Save favorites for one-tap reorders
Phone / In‑store	Custom requests	Confirm meat sauce, meatballs, or extra sauces
App / Third‑party	On-the-go ordering	Watch fees and reward options

Lock in your time at least 24 hours ahead. Confirm delivery instructions and a contact number. Add one extra pan to cover last‑minute guests and include a marinara dipping sauce or cheese marinara dipping for bread lovers.

Make Your Event Effortless with Olive Garden Catering

Make Your Event Effortless with Olive Garden Catering

Wrap up your plan by picking the format that makes service effortless and keeps guests satisfied. The garden catering menu offers Meal Combinations, a Create Your Own pasta station, and à la carte pans to match any headcount and budget.

Orders include setup items like table covers and Sterno fuel so food stays warm. Add the famous jumbo house salad—your jumbo house salad includes breadsticks—to balance plates. A small trio of dips, including a marinara dipping sauce and a cheese marinara dipping option, keeps bread lovers happy.

Choose delivery or pickup. With clear portions and typical minimums near $100 and modest fees, you can budget with confidence. When you’re ready, place your order and enjoy time with guests while the food does the hosting.

FAQ

How do I place a catering order?

You can order online, call your local restaurant, or place the order in person. Online gives you the full lineup and pricing. For custom requests or large events, call — the catering team will confirm availability, lead time, and any delivery or setup fees.

What formats are available for events?

Choose from bundled meal combinations that include salad and breadsticks, a build‑your‑own pasta station, or à la carte pans. Bundles serve larger groups simply. Stations work well for interactive events. Pans are flexible for smaller groups or mix‑and‑match needs.

How many people does each option serve?

Standard pans generally serve 4–6 people. Combination bundles typically serve 8–14 people. Pasta stations and larger combination orders scale up; the catering team will help calculate quantities based on your headcount.

What popular entrées should I consider?

Crowd pleasers include Chicken Alfredo, Five Cheese Ziti, Lasagna Classico, and Chicken Parmigiana. Shrimp Scampi and Chicken Marsala are good for variety. Pair mains with house salad and breadsticks for a complete meal.

Are prices listed in real time?

Menu prices can vary by location. Online ordering and local restaurants provide current pricing. For guaranteed totals, request a written quote from your local store when you place the order.

What comes with a bundled combination?

Bundles usually include the main entrée pan, the famous jumbo house salad, a set of breadsticks, and dessert options. Exact contents depend on the bundle; check the item details or confirm with the catering coordinator.

Can I build a pasta station and what’s included?

Yes. A typical station includes two pasta choices (like penne and fettuccine), two sauces (marinara and Alfredo), protein options (meatballs, grilled chicken), salad, and breadsticks. Setup and serving utensils are often included; confirm setup needs and fees.

What are the a la carte pan options?

A la carte pans include items such as Chicken Alfredo, Five Cheese Ziti, Lasagna Classico, Shrimp Scampi, and Ravioli. You can mix pans to suit tastes and dietary needs. Each pan serves about 4–6 people.

What salads, soups, and sides are available?

The famous jumbo house salad is offered and often paired with 12 breadsticks. There are made‑from‑scratch soups, appetizers like toasted ravioli and fried mozzarella, and desserts such as tiramisu and Sicilian cheesecake.

How much should I order per person?

Plan roughly one pan per 4–6 people for main dishes, or choose combination bundles for 8–14 guests. For heavier eaters or longer events, err toward the lower pans‑per‑person ratio. The catering team can run exact math for your menu mix.

Can you accommodate dietary needs?

Yes. There are vegetarian options like Five Cheese Ziti and Eggplant Parmigiana, and gluten‑sensitive swaps on select pastas and salads. Note that cross‑contact is possible; discuss strict restrictions when ordering.

What notice do you need and are there delivery minimums?

Typical lead times are 24 hours, with next‑day cutoff examples varying by location. Many restaurants have delivery minimums (commonly around 0) and service fees. Ask your local store about exact windows, minimums, and any regional differences.

What does delivery include?

Deliveries often include insulated pans, utensils, plates, napkins, and Sterno fuel if needed. Table covers or staffed setup may be available for an additional charge. Confirm included items when you book.

How do I keep food warm and serve it at the event?

Use Sterno fuel and chafing racks for warm holding. Schedule delivery 30–60 minutes before serving to allow setup and to keep breadsticks warm. For stations, staff or attendants can keep lines moving and replenish pans.

How do portions and quality compare to other Italian‑style caterers?

Guests often praise creamy sauces and generous portions. If you’re comparing to competitors like Carrabba’s, consider portion size, menu depth, and whether you prefer wood‑grilled items versus classic pasta‑forward choices.

Are there discounts or promotions for catering?

Occasional promos appear online, through the app, or via local restaurants. First‑time orders and limited‑time deals may apply. For larger orders, ask about volume pricing or seasonal offers when you call.

Can I order desserts and appetizers with my catering?

Yes. Popular dessert choices include tiramisu, Sicilian cheesecake, and black tie mousse cake. Appetizers like spinach‑artichoke dip and toasted ravioli are available as add‑ons. Add these to round out the meal.

What should I tell the team when I call to customize an order?

Give event date, time, headcount, delivery address, any dietary restrictions, desired menu items or bundles, and budget. Ask about setup options, delivery fees, and what’s included so there are no surprises.