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39 Authentic Italian Recipes That Won’t Leave You Missing the Restaurant Experience

Missing the atmosphere of a bustling Italian eatery? These 39 recipes have you covered, minus the waiters and the oversized menus. You won’t need to argue about who gets the last bite of lasagna because it’s all yours. Whether it’s a rich risotto or a perfectly grilled panini, these dishes are crafted to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a tiny, cozy Italian kitchen—without the baggage fees.

A top-down shot of a classic caprese salad in a black dish.
Classic Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A rich, creamy soup that’s perfect for any occasion, Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines tender gnocchi and juicy chicken in a satisfying, flavorful broth. It’s filling but not too heavy, making it ideal for a quick dinner that won’t leave you feeling sluggish. The comforting texture and savory taste will make you feel like you’re at a cozy Italian trattoria. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works for any season.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for something fresh yet hearty, this salad will check all the boxes. Pesto Orzo Salad offers a great balance of texture and flavor, making it a versatile dish. It works just as well as a side dish as it does as a main, bringing the taste of Italy to any meal. Quick, flavorful, and simple, it’s a winner every time.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This hearty, filling soup is the kind of comfort food that will make you feel right at home. Pasta e Fagioli Soup combines tender pasta and beans in a savory broth that’s hard to resist. It’s perfect for cozy nights when you want something that’s both satisfying and easy to make. With its rich flavor, you’ll be reaching for seconds, maybe even thirds!
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

A white plate of creamy balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing resting next to a plate of salad.
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A simple yet flavorful dressing, Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette adds a touch of richness to any salad. It brings the perfect balance of tang and creaminess that complements a variety of greens. This vinaigrette is versatile and can even be used as a marinade for grilled vegetables or meats. It’s an easy addition that makes a big difference.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Shrimp Scampi Pizza

A pizza with shrimp and cheese on top.
Shrimp Scampi Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This isn’t your average pizza—it’s a seafood lover’s dream. Shrimp Scampi Pizza takes all the goodness of shrimp scampi and places it on a crispy pizza crust. The garlic butter sauce perfectly complements the shrimp, making it a standout dish that’s perfect for any pizza night. It’s an exciting twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want a quick, flavorful dinner, this dish never disappoints. Italian Chicken is simple but packed with Italian-inspired flavors, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Juicy chicken breasts are cooked in a savory sauce that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s one of those meals you can always rely on when you want something easy yet delicious.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Birria Pizza

Birria Pizza on a pizza stone.
Birria Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re craving something with a twist, this pizza has you covered. Birria Pizza takes the delicious flavors of the popular Mexican dish and transforms it into a pizza masterpiece. The tender, slow-cooked meat pairs perfectly with melted cheese, creating an irresistible combination. Once you try it, you might just say goodbye to traditional pizza forever.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Kale and tortellini soup in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a soup that’s both hearty and light? Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken offers the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With tender tortellini and fresh kale, it’s a meal that won’t weigh you down but still satisfies. Ideal for any night of the week, this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

A bowl of oven-roasted tomato soup with two spoons.
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A bowl of Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is the ultimate comfort food. The slow-roasting of tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, creating a deeply flavorful base for this soup. Pair it with a grilled cheese for a perfect, nostalgic meal. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking for a light, flavorful dish, this one’s a winner. Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce brings the sweetness of fresh tomatoes together with al dente pasta for a simple yet satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that makes you appreciate the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. Quick, easy, and full of flavor—what more could you want?
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This one’s perfect for when you want something different but still familiar. Ham & Asparagus Pizza offers a fresh twist on traditional pizza. The sweet ham and crisp asparagus make for a delicious topping combination that’s as unexpected as it is satisfying. The crust adds the perfect crunch, creating a well-rounded bite that you’ll love.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is all about bold, zesty flavors. Chicken Piccata combines juicy chicken with a tangy lemon and caper sauce that’ll make you want to make it again and again. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for dinner guests. Once you try it, it’ll be hard to go back to regular chicken recipes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Gnocchi in Lemon-Parmesan Sauce on a black plate.
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a lighter take on a comfort dish, Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce is the way to go. The gnocchi is soft and pillowy, and the lemon-Parmesan sauce adds just the right amount of brightness. It’s an easy dish that feels fancy and is perfect for any night you want to treat yourself. The flavors come together perfectly, making each bite a little celebration.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese Sauce on pasta.
Authentic Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Nothing beats a slow-cooked, rich sauce, and Authentic Bolognese Sauce is just that. This hearty sauce is perfect for tossing with pasta or layering in lasagna. The flavors meld together as it simmers, creating a depth that’s hard to match. Once you make this, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in Italian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Italian Pot Roast Pasta

A hand lifting a fork with a bite of Italian Pot Roast Pasta on a bowl.
Italian Pot Roast Pasta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

When you want a satisfying, hearty dish, this recipe is the way to go. Italian Pot Roast Pasta combines tender, slow-cooked beef with pasta for a comfort meal that’s as easy as it is delicious. The deep, savory flavors are the kind that make you feel like you’re eating a meal prepared by someone who’s been cooking for years. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta

Polenta with Mascarpone

Polenta with mascarpone in a white bowl.
Polenta with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is the definition of creamy comfort food. Polenta with Mascarpone offers a rich, smooth texture that’s perfect as a side or even as a main course. The mascarpone adds a touch of decadence, making it a perfect pairing for a variety of meals. It’s easy to make, and the results are always impressive.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Garlic Shrimp Scampi is one of those dishes that feels both fancy and comforting. The shrimp are perfectly cooked in a garlic butter sauce that’s simple yet full of flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Serve it with pasta or over rice, and you’ve got a dish that’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Hearty and flavorful, this dish brings together pillowy gnocchi, savory sausage, and the perfect bite of broccoli rabe. Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe comes together quickly in one pan, making it an ideal weeknight dinner. The sausage provides a satisfying richness, while the broccoli rabe adds a touch of bitterness that balances the dish perfectly. It’s a comforting meal that feels homey but looks impressive, making it great for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Roasting asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, and when paired with mascarpone, it becomes a side dish worth the spotlight. Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone is a simple yet decadent way to enjoy this vegetable. The mascarpone adds a creamy richness that elevates the dish and turns it into something special. Perfect alongside any main course, this dish is a quick way to add sophistication to your dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Tomato Bruschetta

Tomato Bruschetta on a platter.
Tomato Bruschetta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fresh, vibrant, and packed with flavor, this appetizer is a crowd-pleaser every time. Tomato Bruschetta brings together juicy tomatoes, basil, and garlic on perfectly toasted bread. It’s a light, refreshing starter that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. Whether served as an appetizer or a snack, this dish is a quick way to add some Italian flair to your meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Two bowls of Copycat Carrabba's Mama Mandola's Sicilian Chicken Soup, accompanied by two spoons, a black pepper grinder, and a napkin.
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Rich, hearty, and full of flavor, this soup is a comfort food favorite. Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup features tender chicken and a savory broth that’s perfect for any chilly evening. The flavors are simple yet satisfying, offering a hearty meal in a bowl. It’s an easy dish to prepare, and it tastes just like your favorite restaurant soup.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Pizza Pasta Salad

A fork with pizza pasta salad in a bowl.
Pizza Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you love pizza but want something a little different, this dish is a great alternative. Pizza Pasta Salad combines the best elements of pizza and pasta in a chilled salad that’s perfect for picnics or potlucks. The ingredients come together in a fun, flavorful way that makes this dish both familiar and unique. It’s an easy-to-make salad that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad

Classic Shrimp Scampi

Two cast iron skillets contain shrimp scampi garnished with lemon wedges.
Classic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for seafood lovers, Classic Shrimp Scampi is the answer. The shrimp are cooked to perfection in a buttery, garlicky sauce that’s full of flavor. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal but fancy enough for a dinner party. Served over pasta or with crusty bread, it’s a meal that always impresses.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi

Grilled Sausage & Peppers

A sandwich with grilled sausage & peppers, and onions on a plate.
Grilled Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

It’s simple, yet always a crowd-pleaser, and brings a little Italian-American comfort to your table. Grilled Sausage & Peppers is a hearty, satisfying dish that’s full of bold flavors. The sausage is juicy and savory, while the peppers add a touch of sweetness and smokiness when grilled. This dish is perfect for a casual dinner or as a topping for pasta.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Sausage & Peppers

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce in a black skillet.
Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving the creamy, velvety goodness of restaurant Alfredo, this homemade version won’t disappoint. Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce brings that iconic, smooth texture to your kitchen without the need for a reservation. The sauce is rich but not overly heavy, making it the perfect companion for pasta or vegetables. It’s simple, satisfying, and guarantees a taste of your favorite restaurant at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Chicken Cacciatore

A white dish filled with pieces of Chicken Cacciatore in a red sauce, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Cacciatore. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

This classic Italian dish combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce that’s perfect for soaking up with crusty bread. Chicken Cacciatore simmers slowly, allowing all the flavors to meld together, creating a comforting, hearty meal. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with incredible aromas, making you feel like you’ve been transported to Italy. Great for serving a crowd or meal prepping, it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore

Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

A plate of Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers sprinkled with chopped herbs.
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

When you crave hearty, flavorful comfort food, this dish hits the spot. Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers brings together juicy sausage and caramelized peppers in a satisfying combination. It’s perfect served over pasta, in a sandwich, or on its own, providing the kind of bold flavors you’d expect from a restaurant. This dish takes simple ingredients and turns them into a meal that’s both filling and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled chicken topped with a fresh tomato bruschetta is an easy way to bring the flavors of Italy into your kitchen. Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is light, flavorful, and perfect for a summer meal or weeknight dinner. The grilled chicken acts as the perfect base for the vibrant, tangy topping that adds a burst of flavor. It’s a dish that’s quick to make but feels like a special treat every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

For a rich, creamy pasta dish that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to prepare, this is it. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka takes rigatoni and coats it in a smooth, velvety vodka sauce that’s perfectly balanced. The sauce is rich without being overwhelming, making this a great dish for any pasta lover. It’s a comfort food classic that feels both familiar and luxurious.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

This sandwich is a simple, yet flavorful twist on the traditional Caprese salad. Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich layers juicy grilled chicken with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes for a satisfying bite. The toasted bread adds crunch and holds everything together, making each bite the perfect balance of flavors. It’s a sandwich that’s filling, fresh, and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

If you’re craving creamy pasta with shrimp, this dish gives you all the restaurant-quality flavor you love. Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo features succulent shrimp in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that’s smooth and indulgent. It’s easy to make at home, yet it feels like a special treat. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in when you want something satisfying and indulgent.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta

A hand holds a fork with Italian Pot Roast Pasta in a white bowl, topped with grated cheese and herbs.
Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

This dish is perfect for those days when you want a comforting meal without the fuss. Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta features tender roast beef that falls apart in the rich, flavorful sauce, perfectly paired with pasta. The slow cooker does all the work, and the result is a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a big hug on a plate. It’s the kind of dish that gets better the longer it simmers, making it great for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish is light, fresh, and always a crowd-pleaser. Tomato Bruschetta Board is a fun, interactive way to enjoy the classic flavors of bruschetta. The toasted bread acts as the perfect base for the fresh, flavorful tomato mixture. It’s ideal for parties, picnics, or casual get-togethers, as everyone can build their own perfect bite.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish brings together the savory flavors of sausage and the slight bitterness of broccoli rabe in a satisfying pasta dish. Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is simple yet flavorful, offering a hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. The pasta soaks up the flavors of the sausage and the greens, creating a balanced, delicious bite every time. It’s a great option for when you need something filling but not too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A dish that feels like a special occasion but is easy enough for a weeknight dinner. Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are a comforting, indulgent meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. The large pasta shells are stuffed with a generous amount of cheese, and then baked in a savory sauce. The cheesy filling is rich and satisfying, making every bite a treat.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone in a black dish.
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a rich, decadent side dish, Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is the perfect choice. The mascarpone adds a creamy, smooth texture that makes the spinach feel indulgent yet light. It’s an easy side to prepare but packs in a lot of flavor. Serve it alongside your favorite pasta or meat dish, and it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Tortellini Soup with Sausage in a white bowl.
Tortellini Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm, hearty, and packed with flavor, this soup is a great way to enjoy Italian comfort food. Tortellini Soup with Sausage combines tender sausage and chewy tortellini in a flavorful broth that’s both satisfying and light. It’s a perfect meal for a chilly night and easy to make in one pot. This soup is filling without feeling too heavy, making it a great weeknight option.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl.
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is the perfect weeknight meal. The creamy ricotta pairs perfectly with the sweet, juicy tomatoes, creating a fresh and comforting sauce. It’s a quick and easy dish that still feels like a treat. Whether you’re feeding a family or cooking for one, this dish is always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Classic Caprese Salad

A top-down shot of a classic caprese salad in a black dish.
Classic Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For a fresh, simple side, Classic Caprese Salad is always a win. This dish combines juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil for a perfect balance of flavors. It’s light, refreshing, and pairs well with just about any main course. Whether you serve it as an appetizer or a side, it’s a dish that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad

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