Italian food isn’t all about pasta and pizza—these 15 recipes prove that with bold flavors and easy-to-follow steps that anyone can master. You’ll find dishes that range from crowd-pleasing appetizers to comforting, big-portion entrees, each one sure to make second helpings non-negotiable. Expect hearty classics, a few regional surprises, and meals that won’t have you in the kitchen for hours. This collection has something for everyone, no passport or chef hat is required!
Pesto Orzo Salad
Looking for a salad that’s anything but basic? Pesto Orzo Salad brings together a variety of textures and flavors, making it a standout side dish. It’s refreshing, satisfying, and easy to make—perfect for a family dinner or as a dish to bring to a gathering. After one bite, it’ll be hard not to go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Once you taste it, you’ll be back for another bowl in no time. Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly day. With tender gnocchi and juicy chicken in a rich broth, this soup will warm you up from the inside out. It’s a filling meal that’s surprisingly light, making it perfect for any time of day.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Don’t expect leftovers; everyone will be coming back for another slice. Ham & Asparagus Pizza is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create something extraordinary. The savory ham and tender asparagus pair beautifully on a crispy crust. This pizza is light yet filling, making it the perfect dish for any meal of the day.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
A great dressing can make or break a salad, and Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette is a game-changer. It’s creamy, tangy, and just the right balance of flavors to complement any greens. This dressing makes even the simplest salad feel special. You’ll probably end up pouring more on because it’s just that good.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Don’t be surprised if you end up serving seconds—everyone will want more. Shrimp Scampi Pizza takes a classic seafood dish and turns it into something even better. The crispy pizza crust acts as the perfect base for the buttery shrimp and garlic sauce. If you love shrimp scampi, this pizza version is a must-try.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
If you want a soup that’s both filling and packed with flavor, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken has got you covered. This dish combines tender chicken, healthy kale, and soft tortellini in a warm, savory broth. It’s an easy, hearty meal that will have you going back for seconds. Perfect for cooler nights, this soup is a classic go-to.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Tomato Bruschetta
Whether it’s an appetizer or a light snack, Tomato Bruschetta always delivers. With fresh, simple ingredients, it’s an easy go-to for anyone looking to enjoy a bit of Italy at home. The crunch of the bread combined with the juicy tomato mixture is a combination that never gets old. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself reaching for more once you’ve finished the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta
Chicken Scampi
If you love the bold flavors of shrimp scampi, Chicken Scampi is the perfect twist. This dish features tender chicken in a buttery, garlicky sauce that’s hard to resist. It’s light but satisfying, and sure to be a hit with anyone who loves a good pasta dish. After the first bite, you’ll be planning for your second round, guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
This one will have you grabbing that second helping without a second thought. Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes brings a fresh and creamy twist to your typical pasta dishes. With a blend of ricotta and juicy tomatoes, this dish is a lighter but just as satisfying alternative. It’s perfect when you want something quick but still packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
The combination of gnocchi, sausage, and broccoli rabe in this dish is an absolute win. In Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe, everything is cooked together in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe brings together satisfying flavors that will make you reach for a second helping. It’s simple but packed with flavor, perfect for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Tomato Bruschetta Board
Looking for a crowd-pleaser? Tomato Bruschetta Board is a fun way to kick off any meal. It’s packed with vibrant flavors and the perfect way to use fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting or just enjoying a casual meal at home, this recipe has all the right components to start things off right. Expect everyone to go back for more once they realize how quickly it disappears.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
The earthy bitterness of broccoli rabe is perfectly balanced by the savory sausage in Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. This recipe proves that you don’t need a lot of ingredients to make something delicious. It’s a hearty meal that’s just the right mix of satisfying and flavorful. You’ll find yourself going for seconds without realizing it.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Tortellini Soup with Sausage
When you want something hearty but not too heavy, Tortellini Soup with Sausage is exactly what you need. This dish brings together tender tortellini and savory sausage in a warm, comforting broth. It’s satisfying enough to be a meal on its own but light enough to make you want a second bowl. Once you try it, you’ll be keeping this one in rotation for sure.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
You know what they say: everything’s better when it’s bigger. Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells take the classic to a whole new level with their size and comforting flavors. These shells are stuffed with all the good stuff, and then baked to perfection, making them a guaranteed hit at the dinner table. Once you serve these, don’t expect anyone to leave without asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Warm, hearty, and full of flavor, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is the kind of dish that sticks with you. It’s the perfect balance of veggies, pasta, and beans, creating a rich, filling meal. Once you taste it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in Italian homes. With a soup this good, second serving will feel like a must rather than a choice.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup