Olive Garden Flatbread Crisps Recipe: Easy & Delicious!

If you’ve ever dined at Olive Garden, you’ve likely tasted their famous Flatbread Crisps – crispy, golden-brown slices of flatbread generously seasoned with savory garlic and Italian herbs.

These delicious crisps are a fan favorite, often served as a flavorful appetizer to kick off any Italian meal.

Now, imagine being able to recreate that perfect appetizer right in your own kitchen. Whether you’re planning a cozy night in or preparing a spread for guests, Olive Garden Flatbread Crisps are an easy yet impressive treat that everyone will love.

They’re crispy, lightly seasoned, and just the right amount of flavorful without being overpowering. This recipe will guide you through each step to help you create these delicious, restaurant-style crisps in no time!

Ingredients: What You’ll Need for Olive Garden Flatbread Crisps

To make your own batch of these crispy, savory treats, you won’t need many ingredients, and they’re all pantry staples that come together to create that iconic Olive Garden flavor.

Here’s what you’ll need:

Flatbread or Pita Bread

The base of these crisps is flatbread. You can choose to use pre-made flatbread or pita bread. Flatbread provides a slightly thicker texture, while pita bread offers a lighter, crispier bite. Both are perfect for this recipe, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is essential for crisping up the flatbread. It gives the crisps a golden hue and provides a smooth base to help the seasonings stick. It also adds a subtle, rich flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Garlic Powder

A key ingredient in creating that savory, aromatic flavor that Olive Garden is known for. Garlic powder adds a depth of flavor without being too strong or overpowering, allowing the other seasonings to shine.

Italian Seasoning

This classic blend of herbs brings the flavors of Italy to your kitchen. A mix of basil, oregano, thyme, and rosemary, Italian seasoning gives the crisps an authentic taste, reminiscent of your favorite Italian dishes.

Salt

A touch of salt is necessary to bring out the best in all the flavors. It enhances the seasonings and helps balance the richness of the olive oil.

Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)

If you enjoy a little heat, crushed red pepper flakes are an excellent way to add a spicy kick to the crisps. It’s optional, but it’s a nice touch if you like a bit of extra flavor in your bites.

Fresh Herbs (Optional)

For a burst of freshness and color, fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be used as a garnish after baking. It gives the crisps a pop of color and a fragrant finish.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional)

Grated Parmesan cheese is optional but highly recommended if you’re looking to elevate your crisps. It adds a rich, nutty flavor and a slight crunch when baked on top. It’s the perfect finishing touch for these homemade treats.

Freshly Ground Black Pepper

A dash of freshly ground black pepper adds an extra layer of flavor and a mild kick that complements the garlic and herbs beautifully.

With these simple ingredients, you’ll be able to recreate Olive Garden’s iconic Flatbread Crisps in your own kitchen, impressing friends and family with a snack that tastes just as good as it does in the restaurant.

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Olive Garden Flatbread Crisps at Home

1. Prepare Your Flatbreads

Start by cutting your flatbread or pita bread into bite-sized triangles or rectangular pieces. The size can vary based on your personal preference, but typically, cutting the flatbread into 6 to 8 pieces works best.

You can also use a pizza cutter for clean, even cuts. If you prefer a thinner crisp, you may choose to trim off any thicker edges of the flatbread before cutting. Set aside while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

2. Preheat Your Oven and Prep the Baking Sheet

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for ensuring the crisps turn out golden and perfectly crunchy.

While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat for easy cleanup. If you don’t have either, lightly grease the baking sheet with cooking spray or a drizzle of olive oil. This step ensures your crisps won’t stick to the sheet while baking.

3. Season the Flatbread with Olive Oil and Spices

Now it’s time to season the flatbread. Drizzle a generous amount of olive oil over the cut flatbread pieces, ensuring they’re all lightly coated.

You can use a pastry brush to spread the oil evenly over each piece, or simply drizzle it and toss the pieces gently to coat. Next, sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning evenly across the pieces.

Add salt to taste, and if you’re using crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra heat, sprinkle those over the top as well. Make sure each piece is coated with the seasoning mixture for the best flavor.

4. Add Parmesan for Extra Flavor (Optional)

If you’re using Parmesan cheese, this is the perfect time to sprinkle a small amount over the seasoned flatbread pieces.

The Parmesan adds a delightful savory richness and a slight crunch as it bakes. You can use grated Parmesan or shredded Parmesan, depending on what you prefer or have available.

5. Bake to Crispy Perfection

Place the seasoned flatbread pieces onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they’re not overlapping. Bake them in the preheated oven for 10–12 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy.

Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes to avoid overbaking, as oven temperatures can vary. About halfway through, flip the pieces over for even crispness. Once they’re done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving.

6. Garnish and Serve

For a final burst of freshness and color, garnish your crispy flatbreads with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley. The fresh herbs not only add a pop of green but also a fragrant, bright note that complements the savory flavors of the crisps.

Serve immediately with your favorite dip, such as marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or even a creamy garlic dipping sauce. Enjoy the perfect crunch with every bite!

Tips for Perfect Olive Garden Flatbread Crisps

Customize the Seasonings to Your Taste

The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. If you like more heat, feel free to add more crushed red pepper flakes. For a more robust garlic flavor, increase the garlic powder slightly. You could also add a sprinkle of onion powder or fresh lemon zest to give it a unique twist.

Choose the Right Flatbread

The type of flatbread you use can impact the texture of your crisps. Traditional flatbread has a thicker, chewier texture, while pita bread tends to be lighter and crisper when baked. Both options work well, so choose what suits your preference. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free flatbread, which is readily available in many stores.

Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet

To ensure your crisps bake evenly and get that perfect crispy texture, avoid overcrowding the baking sheet. If necessary, bake in two batches or use multiple baking sheets. This gives each piece enough space to crisp up nicely without steaming each other.

Keep an Eye on the Oven

Baking time can vary depending on your oven and the thickness of the flatbread. Start checking around the 8-minute mark to ensure the crisps aren’t burning. They should be golden brown and crispy to the touch, but be careful not to overbake, as they can turn too hard or dark.

Store Leftovers Properly

If you happen to have leftovers, store the crisps in an airtight container once they’ve cooled completely. To keep them crisp, avoid storing them in a sealed bag, as moisture can make them soggy. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crunch before serving again.

Serve with Tasty Dips

While the crisps are flavorful on their own, serving them with a dipping sauce takes them to the next level. Classic marinara sauce is an easy and delicious option, but you can also try creamy ranch, garlic butter, or even a tangy tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Conclusion: Enjoy Your Homemade Olive Garden Flatbread Crisps

Recreating Olive Garden’s Flatbread Crisps at home is not only simple but incredibly rewarding. With just a handful of ingredients, you can enjoy these crispy, savory treats fresh out of the oven, capturing the perfect balance of flavors and textures that make them so irresistible.

Whether you’re serving them as an appetizer, pairing them with your favorite dip, or enjoying them as a snack, these homemade flatbread crisps will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen.

There’s no need to wait for your next trip to Olive Garden to indulge—now you can make these tasty crisps anytime you like. So gather your ingredients, preheat that oven, and treat yourself to a delightful homemade appetizer that’s sure to impress!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make these crisps ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare these flatbread crisps ahead of time! You can bake them and store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2-3 days. To maintain their crispiness, place a piece of paper towel in the container to absorb any excess moisture. If you’d like to reheat them, simply pop them back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to restore their crunch.

2. Can I use store-bought flatbreads or make my own?

Both options work perfectly! Using store-bought flatbread or pita bread is a convenient and quick choice. However, if you prefer to make your own flatbread from scratch, that can be a fun and rewarding option as well. Just make sure the flatbread you choose is thin enough to crisp up in the oven.

3. What can I serve with these crisps?

These flatbread crisps are incredibly versatile and pair well with a variety of dips. Popular options include marinara sauce, ranch dressing, or garlic butter. You can also serve them with creamy dips like tzatziki, spinach artichoke dip, or hummus for a Mediterranean-inspired touch. They also work well as a side dish for salads or soups.

4. How do I store leftover flatbread crisps?

To keep your leftover crisps crisp, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Avoid storing them in plastic bags as they can trap moisture and make the crisps soggy. If you want to keep them for longer, you can freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to reheat them in the oven to bring back their crunch.

5. Can I adjust the seasoning for different flavors?

Absolutely! This recipe is highly customizable. You can experiment with different spices and seasonings to match your taste. For a spicier version, add extra crushed red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper. If you prefer a more herby flavor, try adding some fresh rosemary or thyme. You can also experiment with different cheeses or add lemon zest for a refreshing twist. The possibilities are endless!