Why spend hours in the kitchen when these Italian dishes do all the heavy lifting in way less time? These recipes prove you can serve up a bit of Italian flair without clocking overtime at the stove. Ideal for weeknights or when the weekend calls for something effortless, you’ll love how quickly they come together. Think less stirring, more enjoying—because you deserve it.
Chicken Cacciatore
You won’t need all day for this hearty dish. Chicken Cacciatore is a great way to enjoy a flavorful meal without too much fuss. It’s a simple dish that pairs well with pretty much anything. You can throw it together and let it simmer while you take care of other things.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore
Italian Wedding Soup
This soup is hearty enough to fill you up, yet light enough to not make you feel weighed down. This Italian Wedding Soup combines savory broth with small round ingredients that are easy to eat. It’s perfect for those times when you want something warm and comforting but don’t want to spend all day cooking. Toss the ingredients together and let it simmer until it’s ready.
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup
Classic Shrimp Scampi
Classic Shrimp Scampi is a go-to for quick, tasty meals. It has a bright and fresh taste with just the right amount of richness. This dish cooks up fast, making it ideal for those busy days when you want something special without the effort. Plus, it pairs easily with a variety of sides.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Italian Pot Roast Pasta
If you’re looking for a rich dish that doesn’t require too much time, Italian Pot Roast Pasta is a winner. The flavors meld together effortlessly as it cooks, resulting in a satisfying meal. This pasta dish is hearty but won’t keep you chained to the stove. It’s perfect for dinner when you need something to quickly put together.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comfort dish that comes together without a hassle. The creamy soup with tender pieces is a filling option that won’t take much of your time. It works great for a busy weeknight, offering a cozy feeling without the lengthy prep. Serve it up with some crusty bread to make it a meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
If you love sausage and peppers, then Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers is right up your alley. It’s a hearty dish with great textures that cooks up quickly. This recipe gives you a restaurant-quality meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s straightforward and lets you enjoy something special without too much hassle.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Pasta e Fagioli Soup offers a warm and hearty dish that takes little effort. It’s packed with wholesome ingredients that simmer together perfectly. This dish makes a great option for those nights when you want something simple yet satisfying. You just need to stir occasionally until it’s ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Classic Caprese Salad
When you need something fresh and simple, go for Classic Caprese Salad. It’s light, easy, and can be put together in a snap. This dish is great as a side or even a main when you’re in the mood for something not too heavy. The ingredients come together to offer a refreshing bite every time.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup brings comfort to your table with less effort. It’s a wholesome option that’s perfect for any meal. You’ll love how all the ingredients come together in one pot. Let it simmer while you take care of other tasks and enjoy a delicious bowlful in no time.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Birria Pizza
This pizza is a unique twist that combines bold flavors in a quick-to-make dish. It’s not your typical pizza, but it’s a great way to shake up your meal routine without spending hours in the kitchen. Birria Pizza is both fun and easy to prepare, giving a new feel to your weeknight dinners. Just get your toppings ready, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza
Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Creamy and rich, Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce is perfect for pasta nights when you don’t want to spend hours cooking. It comes together quickly without requiring a lot of fancy ingredients. Perfect for those times when you want restaurant-quality food at home without breaking a sweat. Your family will love it, and you’ll appreciate how easy it is to make.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Tomato Bruschetta
Great for appetizers or a quick snack, Tomato Bruschetta combines fresh flavors with minimal prep time. With just a few ingredients, it’s a breeze to prepare and impressive to serve. It’s light, simple, and leaves you with plenty of time to enjoy the afternoon. Whether you’re hosting or just want a simple treat, this bruschetta will not let you down.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Perfect as a side dish, Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone brings a touch of elegance to your meal. It’s straightforward to prepare, requiring minimal effort while delivering delicious results. The mascarpone adds a creamy richness that pairs well with nearly any main dish. You’ll love how hassle-free and impressive this asparagus dish is.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette adds a sophisticated touch to your salads without a lot of fuss. It has a creamy texture that’s easy to whip up with limited hassle. Forget store-bought dressings; this one comes together quickly and tastes fresh. Your salads will never be boring again and you won’t be stuck in the kitchen all day.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Baked Pesto Salmon
Simple yet impressive, Baked Pesto Salmon requires minimal preparation while delivering big rewards. Great for when you want something special without spending all day in the kitchen. The ingredients meld together perfectly in the oven, giving you a nutritious and tasty main course. It’s a win for anyone who loves good food but hates long recipes.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon
Ham & Asparagus Pizza
A unique twist on traditional pizza that’s just as easy to make as your regular go-to. Without the need for complicated steps, Ham & Asparagus Pizza is perfect for a quick but fuflfilling meal. The combination of ham and asparagus creates a flavor that’s sure to be a hit. Great for weeknights or whenever you need a break from more complex recipes.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Elegant and bursting with flavor, Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka can be on your table in no time. You won’t need to spend ages cooking, yet it delivers a sophisticated taste. It’s perfect for dinner guests or just treating yourself to something nice. Enjoy the rich sauce and al dente pasta without any of the restaurant prices or wait times.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka