Olive Garden vs Carrabba's Italian Grill: Calorie Comparison (2026)

When it comes to Italian dining, both Olive Garden and Carrabba's Italian Grill offer a variety of choices that appeal to many. However, their calorie counts can differ significantly. This article will explore the calorie averages and meal options available at each chain. Understanding these differences can help you make more informed dining decisions.

Olive Garden vs Carrabba's Italian Grill: The Numbers

At a glance, Olive Garden offers a lower average calorie count compared to Carrabba's Italian Grill. This can be an important factor for those watching their caloric intake.

Metric	Olive Garden	Carrabba's Italian Grill
Menu items analyzed	200	209
Average calories per item	449 kcal	634 kcal
Lightest real meal	Cappuccino (140 kcal)	Yogurt Bowl (140 kcal)
Highest-protein item	Five Cheese Tortelloni al Forno w/ Grilled Chicken (85 g)	Family Bundle Cavatappi Carrabba (186 g)
Best protein-per-calorie	Sauteed Shrimp, for Create Your Own Pasta (23.3/100cal)	Grilled Chicken w/ Steamed Spinach, Kids (14/100cal)
Calorie range	30-1590 kcal	5-4540 kcal

Olive Garden averages 449 calories per item across 200 menu items, while Carrabba's Italian Grill comes in higher at 634 calories per item across 209 items. With such a difference, diners may want to consider their choices carefully depending on their dietary goals.

Average Calories by Category

In terms of meal options, both restaurants provide a range of lighter and higher-protein meals.

Category	Avg cal, Olive Garden	Avg cal, Carrabba's Italian Grill
Entrees	818 kcal	984 kcal
Desserts	428 kcal	776 kcal
Sandwiches	686 kcal	515 kcal
Pizza	560 kcal	603 kcal
Salads	105 kcal	872 kcal
Appetizers & Sides	425 kcal	450 kcal
Soup	182 kcal	460 kcal
Beverages	291 kcal	212 kcal
Toppings & Ingredients	275 kcal	138 kcal

Olive Garden's lightest real meal is the Cappuccino at 140 calories, while Carrabba's offers the Yogurt Bowl, also at 140 calories. For protein, the Five Cheese Tortelloni al Forno with Grilled Chicken at Olive Garden boasts 85 grams, whereas Carrabba's Family Bundle Cavatappi Carrabba has a substantial 186 grams.

Lightest Options at Olive Garden

Lightest at Olive Garden	Calories	Protein
Sauteed Shrimp, for Create Your Own Pasta	60 kcal	14 g
1% Low Fat Milk	100 kcal	8 g
Cappuccino	140 kcal	9 g
Grilled Chicken, for Create Your Own Pasta	140 kcal	28 g
Pasta e Fagioli Soup	150 kcal	8 g
Cappuccino w/ Whipped Cream	150 kcal	9 g

Lightest Options at Carrabba's Italian Grill

Lightest at Carrabba's Italian Grill	Calories	Protein
Mama Mandolas Sicilian Chicken Soup, Cup	100 kcal	9 g
Yogurt Bowl	140 kcal	8 g
Italian Sausage, for Create Your Own Wood Fired Pizza	150 kcal	11 g
Sausage & Lentil Soup, Kids	190 kcal	11 g
Mama Mandolas Sicilian Chicken Soup, Bowl	190 kcal	18 g
Grilled Asparagus w/ Prosciutto	210 kcal	18 g

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The Verdict

Overall, Olive Garden is the lighter option with an average of 449 calories per item, making it a better choice for those seeking lower-calorie meals. However, Carrabba's offers higher protein options, which may appeal to those focusing on protein intake. Depending on your dietary needs, either restaurant can provide satisfying meals, but your choice may hinge on whether you prioritize calorie count or protein content.

Methodology

Both chains are compared using verified calorie and macro data from published menu information. Averages cover all analyzed items and are a rough guide, not a claim that one chain is universally healthier, since your order and toppings drive the real number. Olive Garden averages 449 calories per item across 200 items; Carrabba's Italian Grill averages 634 across 209.