Dominos Garlic Oil Recipe

Have you ever wondered what makes Domino’s garlic bread so irresistibly aromatic and flavorful? The secret lies in their signature garlic oil a buttery, herbaceous blend that transforms ordinary pizza crusts and breadsticks into golden, savory perfection.

This copycat Domino’s garlic oil recipe recreates that iconic pizzeria taste right in your kitchen. Whether you’re making homemade pizza night extra special or elevating your garlic bread game, this garlic bread seasoning oil delivers that unmistakable restaurant-quality finish.

With simple pantry ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have authentic Domino’s-style flavor at your fingertips. Let’s unlock the delicious secret behind those golden, garlicky crusts!

What Does Domino’s Garlic Oil Taste Like?

Domino’s garlic oil boasts a rich, multi-dimensional flavor profile that’s instantly recognizable. The dominant taste is savory, buttery garlic with a pleasant herbal undertone from Italian seasonings like oregano and parsley.

You’ll notice a subtle cheesy tang from Parmesan, complemented by a hint of brightness from citric and lactic acids that add complexity without being overtly sour. The butter-flavored oil base creates a smooth, luxurious mouthfeel that coats your palate, while the umami depth from yeast extract rounds out the experience.

It’s neither overwhelmingly garlicky nor greasy instead, it strikes a perfect balance between aromatic, savory, and slightly tangy, with a warm, golden color that makes everything it touches look (and taste) absolutely craveable.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Butter-Flavored Oil Base:

• ¾ cup neutral oil (soybean, canola, or vegetable oil)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon sunflower lecithin (optional emulsifier)
• ⅛ teaspoon lactic acid powder (or ½ teaspoon lemon juice)
• Pinch of turmeric powder and beta carotene powder (or yellow food coloring)
• ¼ teaspoon artificial butter flavor (optional)
• ⅛ teaspoon vitamin E oil (optional preservative)
• ¼ teaspoon autolyzed yeast extract (or nutritional yeast)

For the Seasoning Blend:

• 2–3 tablespoons dehydrated minced garlic (or crushed garlic flakes)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (powdered or finely grated)
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon dehydrated parsley flakes
• ¼ teaspoon mixed Italian spices (oregano, basil blend)
• Pinch of annatto powder (optional, for color)
• ¼ teaspoon MSG or yeast extract (optional flavor enhancer)
• ⅛ teaspoon citric acid powder
• ⅛ teaspoon lactic acid powder
• 2–3 drops oleoresin rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed)

Essential Kitchen Utensils

• Small saucepan
• Mixing bowl or glass jar
• Whisk or stirring spoon
• Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (optional)
• Airtight storage bottle or jar
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Basting brush (for application)

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time	Cook Time	Infusion Time	Total Time	Yield
10 minutes	5 minutes	30-60 minutes	45-75 minutes	1 cup (4-6 servings)

Servings: Makes enough garlic oil to season 4–6 pizzas or multiple batches of garlic bread

Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Create the Butter-Flavored Oil Base

In a small saucepan, gently warm ¾ cup of neutral oil over low heat. Add the melted butter, salt, sunflower lecithin, lactic acid, turmeric or beta carotene, artificial butter flavor (if using), and autolyzed yeast extract. Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture becomes fragrant. Avoid boiling you want gentle warmth to blend the flavors without breaking down the components. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you prepare the seasonings.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic and Herb Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl or glass jar, combine the dehydrated minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, parsley flakes, Italian spices, annatto powder, citric acid, lactic acid, and crushed rosemary. Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution of flavors. This seasoning blend is what gives the oil its characteristic Domino’s taste profile.

Step 3: Infuse the Oil with Seasonings

Pour the warm butter-oil mixture over your dry seasoning blend. Stir vigorously for about 1 minute to ensure the dehydrated ingredients begin absorbing the oil and releasing their aromatics. You’ll notice the garlic and herbs hydrating immediately, creating that signature chunky-yet-oily texture.

Step 4: Allow Proper Infusion Time

Let the garlic oil mixture sit at room temperature for 30–60 minutes, stirring occasionally every 10-15 minutes. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and intensify. For an even more robust flavor that closely mimics the Domino’s original, cover and refrigerate overnight before first use.

Step 5: Strain (Optional) and Store

If you prefer a smoother garlic oil without visible garlic bits (which can burn during high-heat cooking), strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into your storage container. Save the strained solids they make an excellent garlic-Parmesan seasoning sprinkle! Transfer the finished oil to an airtight bottle and refrigerate. Always shake well before each use, as ingredients may settle.

Creative Customization and Pairing Ideas

1. Classic Pizza Crust Enhancement

Brush this copycat Domino’s garlic oil generously on pizza dough before baking for that authentic pizzeria flavor, or apply it immediately after removing your pizza from the oven for maximum aroma. Pair it with a Margherita pizza or pepperoni classic to let the garlic oil shine without competing flavors. The butter-garlic combination creates an irresistible golden crust that rivals any delivery pizza.

2. Gourmet Garlic Bread Variations

Transform ordinary Italian bread, baguettes, or ciabatta into restaurant-quality garlic bread by brushing both sides with this seasoning oil before toasting. For loaded garlic bread, add extra mozzarella and the strained garlic-Parmesan solids on top. This pairing works beautifully alongside pasta dishes, soups, or as an appetizer with marinara dipping sauce.

3. Breadstick and Knot Perfection

Recreate Domino’s famous breadsticks by brushing this garlic oil on fresh or frozen bread dough before baking at 475°F. After baking, brush another layer while still hot and sprinkle with additional Parmesan. Serve alongside pizza for the ultimate pizza night spread, or pair with creamy Alfredo sauce for dipping.

4. Pasta and Grain Bowl Finisher

Drizzle this aromatic oil over freshly cooked pasta, risotto, or grain bowls as a finishing touch. It adds instant depth to simple spaghetti aglio e olio, enhances carbonara, or elevates plain rice into a flavorful side dish. The garlic-herb profile complements both cream-based and tomato-based pasta sauces beautifully.

5. Roasted Vegetable Game-Changer

Toss vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, or potatoes in this garlic oil before roasting. The butter-flavored base helps achieve golden caramelization while the herbs and Parmesan create a savory crust. 

Expert Tips for Perfect Domino’s Garlic Oil

1. Choose the Right Base Oil

While any neutral oil works, soybean or canola oil most closely replicates Domino’s commercial formulation due to their mild flavor and high smoke point. Avoid olive oil, which has a distinct taste that will overpower the butter and garlic notes. The neutral base allows the garlic, herbs, and Parmesan to be the stars while maintaining that characteristic glossy texture that clings perfectly to pizza crusts.

2. Don’t Skip the Dehydrated Garlic

Fresh garlic might seem like a better option, but dehydrated minced garlic or garlic flakes are crucial for authenticity. They provide concentrated flavor without excess moisture that could cause the oil to spoil quickly. Dehydrated garlic also won’t burn as easily when brushed on hot surfaces. If you must use fresh garlic, finely mince 4–5 cloves and reduce the infusion time to prevent bitterness.

3. Temperature Control is Critical

When warming your oil base, maintain low heat throughout ideally between 180–200°F. High heat will cause the butter solids to separate, the garlic to become bitter, and the herbs to lose their aromatic compounds. A gentle warmth is all you need to blend ingredients and activate flavors. Use a kitchen thermometer if you’re unsure, and remember: slow and low yields the best garlic oil results.

4. Shake Before Every Use

The seasoning particles in this copycat Domino’s garlic oil naturally settle to the bottom during storage. Always shake your container vigorously for 10–15 seconds before each application to redistribute the garlic, Parmesan, and herbs evenly. This ensures consistent flavor in every brush stroke and prevents the last uses from being overly concentrated while the first applications are weak.

5. Apply at the Right Time

For maximum flavor impact, brush garlic oil on pizza crusts or bread in two stages: lightly before baking (to infuse during cooking), then generously immediately after removing from the oven while still hot. The residual heat helps the oil absorb into the bread while preserving the fresh garlic aroma. For breadsticks, the double-brush method creates that signature Domino’s intensity.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store your homemade Domino’s garlic oil in an airtight glass jar or bottle in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The oil will solidify when cold simply let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before use, or gently warm the container in a bowl of hot water. Always use a clean utensil when scooping to prevent contamination and extend shelf life.

Common Queries and FAQs

Can I use fresh garlic instead of dehydrated garlic in this recipe?

While you can substitute fresh garlic, it’s not recommended for authenticity or safety. Fresh garlic contains moisture that creates a botulism risk when stored in oil, even refrigerated. Dehydrated garlic provides concentrated flavor, longer shelf life, and won’t burn as easily when applied to hot surfaces. If you must use fresh, finely mince 4-5 cloves, use the oil immediately, and don’t store leftovers beyond 2-3 days.

What can I substitute for hard-to-find ingredients like lecithin or lactic acid?

The beauty of this copycat recipe is its flexibility. Skip lecithin entirely it’s an emulsifier that helps ingredients blend but isn’t essential for home cooking. Replace lactic acid powder with fresh lemon juice (½ teaspoon per ⅛ teaspoon powder) for similar tang. Substitute oleoresin rosemary with dried rosemary, and nutritional yeast works perfectly in place of autolyzed yeast extract. The core garlic-butter-Parmesan flavors will still shine through.

How does this compare to the actual Domino’s garlic oil?

This homemade version captures about 90-95% of the authentic Domino’s flavor profile. The main differences are subtle commercial versions use industrial emulsifiers and precise flavor compounds that are difficult to replicate exactly at home. However, most taste-testers find this copycat recipe virtually indistinguishable, especially when brushed on hot pizza or garlic bread where the heat intensifies the aromatics.

Can I make this garlic oil dairy-free or vegan?

Absolutely! Replace the butter with additional neutral oil plus 1-2 teaspoons of vegan butter extract or margarine for that buttery flavor. Substitute the Parmesan with nutritional yeast (which adds cheesy umami) or vegan Parmesan alternatives. The result will be slightly less rich but still deliciously garlicky and completely plant-based while maintaining that signature Domino’s taste.

Why does my garlic oil separate in the refrigerator?

Separation is completely normal and expected! The butter and oil naturally separate when chilled because they have different densities and melting points. This doesn’t affect quality or flavor simply shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds before each use to re-emulsify the ingredients. You can also let it come to room temperature, which makes mixing easier and the oil easier to brush.

Can I use this garlic oil for cooking or just as a finishing oil?

This seasoning oil works both ways! It’s perfect as a finishing oil for maximum aroma and flavor, but you can also cook with it at moderate temperatures (up to 375°F). Avoid using it for high-heat searing or deep frying, as the garlic particles and Parmesan will burn. It’s ideal for sautéing vegetables, making garlic shrimp, or as a flavor base for stir-fries and pasta dishes.

How can I make the garlic flavor stronger or milder?

Start with 2 tablespoons of dehydrated garlic for a milder profile that lets the herbs and cheese shine through, or increase to 4 tablespoons for an intensely garlicky version that rivals extra-garlic Domino’s orders. Let the oil infuse overnight for maximum potency, or use it immediately after a 30-minute infusion for a gentler garlic presence. Taste and adjust before storing your final batch.

What’s the best way to apply this oil to get that authentic Domino’s crust?

For authentic results, use a pastry brush or silicone basting brush to apply a thin, even layer before baking, then brush generously again immediately after baking while the crust is still hot. The two-stage application mimics Domino’s process: the pre-bake layer infuses flavor during cooking, while the post-bake layer provides that glossy, aromatic finish. Don’t be shy Domino’s is known for their liberal garlic oil application!

Now you have the secret to recreating Domino’s legendary garlic oil at home! This copycat recipe delivers that unmistakable buttery, garlicky, herby flavor that makes every pizza crust and breadstick irresistible.

Whether you’re hosting pizza night, elevating your garlic bread game, or simply want that authentic pizzeria taste without the delivery fee, this garlic bread seasoning oil is your new kitchen essential.

The best part? You can customize the intensity, control the ingredients, and always have it ready in your refrigerator. Give this Domino’s garlic oil recipe a try, and watch ordinary homemade pizzas transform into restaurant-quality masterpieces that’ll have everyone asking for your secret!

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