If you’re looking for Italian dishes that’ll make you feel like you’re dining in a cozy, hidden kitchen in Rome, look no further. These 39 dishes range from classic pasta to hearty meat options, each bursting with flavors that’ll leave you wondering if Nonna’s secret recipe book is involved. Whether you’re a fan of simple ingredients or bold flavors, there’s something here that’ll make your taste buds think they’ve traveled to Italy—no passport required.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
When you’re craving something hearty yet comforting, this dish has you covered. Chicken Gnocchi Soup combines tender chicken with pillowy gnocchi in a flavorful broth. Each spoonful will leave you feeling satisfied and warm, making it a perfect choice for a cozy night in. It’s easy to fall in love with this dish, and once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever went without.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Pesto Orzo Salad
Light and refreshing, this dish makes the perfect side or standalone meal. Pesto Orzo Salad brings together tender orzo and vibrant pesto in a way that’ll leave you wanting more. It’s easy to prepare but packs a punch in flavor, giving you a fresh option without the heaviness of some other salads. Whether served warm or cold, this one’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Italian Chicken
This dish is simple yet full of flavor, making it the perfect weeknight meal. Italian Chicken brings together tender chicken with a savory seasoning that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It pairs well with just about anything, from pasta to veggies, and adds an authentic Italian touch to your dinner table. You’ll find yourself making it again and again.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
If you love shrimp and pizza, you’ll definitely want to try this dish. Shrimp Scampi Pizza combines the richness of shrimp scampi with the crispy goodness of pizza. The flavors blend together in a surprising yet delicious way, making each bite something to remember. It’s a perfect option when you’re craving both seafood and pizza at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
If you’re tired of the usual dressings, this one’s a game-changer. Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette brings the perfect balance of tang and smoothness, making it the ideal topping for any salad or veggies. With just the right consistency, it coats everything perfectly without overpowering. Once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever made salads without it.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Ham & Asparagus Pizza
This pizza brings a fresh twist on a classic. Ham & Asparagus Pizza combines the savory richness of ham with the light, tender flavor of asparagus. The toppings balance each other out, creating a pizza that’s both satisfying and unique. If you’re looking to shake up your pizza night, this one’s a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Chicken Piccata
If you’re in the mood for something both light and flavorful, this dish is a winner. Chicken Piccata features tender chicken in a zesty, lemony sauce that adds just the right amount of brightness. It’s a simple dish that brings big flavors without being overly complicated. Perfect for a quick dinner that still feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
This dish takes gnocchi to the next level with a light and creamy sauce. Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce brings together pillowy gnocchi and a tangy lemon sauce that’s rich but not heavy. The sauce complements the soft texture of the gnocchi, making each bite satisfying. It’s simple, yet it feels like an indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Birria Pizza
Get ready for a pizza experience like no other. Birria Pizza takes the flavors of the classic Mexican dish and gives it a fun Italian twist. The combination of tender birria and crispy crust is something you didn’t know you needed, but once you try it, you’ll be hooked. This is a pizza that’s anything but ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
This soup is hearty enough to be a full meal and light enough to enjoy anytime. Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken combines chewy tortellini, tender chicken, and fresh kale for a comforting, filling dish. The broth is rich, yet light, making each spoonful satisfying without being too heavy. It’s the kind of dish you’ll keep coming back to when you need something simple and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Roasting the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and adds a depth of flavor that regular tomato soup just can’t match. Oven Roasted Tomato Soup gives you that rich, comforting feeling with every spoonful. It’s simple, but the flavors are deep and satisfying. Whether you pair it with grilled cheese or enjoy it on its own, it’s a classic for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Sometimes, simple is best, and this dish proves it. Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce brings together fresh tomatoes in a light yet flavorful sauce that perfectly complements your favorite pasta. The sweetness of the cherry tomatoes comes through in every bite, making this a go-to dish for those who want a quick and satisfying meal. It’s an easy, no-fuss option that’s big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Authentic Bolognese Sauce
When you want something rich and comforting, this sauce has you covered. Authentic Bolognese Sauce is simmered to perfection, bringing all the flavors together in a thick, savory sauce. It’s perfect when paired with your favorite pasta or as a base for other Italian dishes. Once you try this, you’ll wonder why you didn’t make it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone is a simple yet indulgent side dish. Roasting the asparagus brings out its natural sweetness, while the mascarpone adds a creamy richness that complements it perfectly. It’s a great option when you want something easy but impressive. This dish will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Tomato Bruschetta
Fresh, light, and full of flavor, Tomato Bruschetta is a perfect appetizer or snack. The crunchy toast and juicy tomatoes combine for a satisfying bite that’s easy to prepare. Whether you serve it as a starter or pair it with wine, this dish always hits the spot. It’s a great way to enjoy the simplicity of fresh ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta
Pizza Pasta Salad
This fun twist on pasta salad combines all the flavors of pizza into one easy dish. Pizza Pasta Salad is packed with all your favorite pizza toppings, but in pasta form. It’s a great choice for parties, picnics, or a quick meal. This one’s so simple, yet it always gets rave reviews.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
If you’re a fan of classic Italian soups, this one’s a must-try. Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is full of rich flavors that make it feel like a homemade dish from a family kitchen. The combination of ingredients creates a savory, comforting bowl that’s perfect for any occasion. One spoonful and you’ll understand why it’s a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Italian Pot Roast Pasta
This dish combines two crowd-pleasers: pot roast and pasta. Italian Pot Roast Pasta takes slow-cooked pot roast and pairs it with hearty pasta for a meal that’s both filling and full of flavor. The roast adds richness to the sauce, making it the perfect comfort food. It’s a great way to enjoy a hearty meal without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Polenta with Mascarpone
A simple side dish that’s both creamy and satisfying, Polenta with Mascarpone is the perfect accompaniment to any meal. The mascarpone adds a smooth, velvety texture that complements the soft polenta. It’s an easy dish that feels indulgent, making it a great option for when you want something a little extra. You’ll find yourself making this one regularly.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
This dish is a quick and flavorful option for when you’re craving shrimp. Garlic Shrimp Scampi brings together succulent shrimp and a buttery, garlic sauce that’s perfect for pasta or on its own. The sauce is light, but it adds a punch of flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s a meal that feels fancy without the complicated steps.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
This dish is hearty, filling, and cooked all in one pan. Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe combines crispy gnocchi with savory sausage and slightly bitter broccoli rabe for a balanced, flavorful meal. It’s easy to make, with minimal cleanup, but still packs a punch in terms of flavor. This one’s perfect when you need something satisfying with a little extra zing.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Classic Shrimp Scampi
Classic Shrimp Scampi is the kind of dish you’ll crave time and time again. Shrimp are cooked in a buttery, garlic sauce that’s rich but not overwhelming. Whether you serve it over pasta or enjoy it on its own, it’s a meal that’s always a winner. It’s the perfect quick dinner when you want something flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Classic Caprese Salad
This salad is the perfect balance of fresh and simple, making it ideal for any meal. Classic Caprese Salad brings together ripe tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil in a dish that’s both light and full of flavor. It’s a great starter or side dish that adds a touch of elegance to any meal. You’ll find yourself coming back to this one time and time again.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
If you love a creamy pasta with a little kick, this dish is for you. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka combines rich vodka sauce with rigatoni pasta, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. It’s a great meal for any occasion, whether you’re hosting dinner or enjoying a quiet night in. Once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
This sandwich brings all the flavors of a Caprese salad to a new level. Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich combines tender grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and basil for a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s the perfect balance of savory and fresh, and it’s easy to make in no time. This is one sandwich you’ll want to have regularly.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
If you love shrimp and creamy pasta, this dish is a must-try. Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo brings together succulent shrimp and a rich Alfredo sauce that’s perfect for any occasion. The sauce coats the shrimp and pasta beautifully, making it a go-to dish for dinner. This one’s sure to impress anyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Grilled Sausage & Peppers
This dish is a simple yet flavorful combination that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Grilled Sausage & Peppers brings together savory sausage and sweet peppers, creating a meal that’s both hearty and light. Whether served on a roll or with a side, it’s a versatile option for any occasion. This is the kind of meal you’ll want to make over and over.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Sausage & Peppers
Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
For those who crave creamy and rich sauces, this one hits the mark. Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce brings together the perfect balance of smooth and cheesy without being too heavy. The sauce coats pasta perfectly, transforming a simple dish into something special. It’s the kind of sauce you’ll want to keep on hand for when you need to make dinner feel a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Chicken Cacciatore
This Italian classic is a perfect choice for a hearty meal. Chicken Cacciatore combines tender chicken with a rich tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor. It’s a dish that’s easy to make but feels like you spent all day in the kitchen. The flavors meld together beautifully, creating a satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, this dish is for you. Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers brings together spicy sausage and sweet peppers in a way that’s hard to resist. It’s simple, hearty, and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for any meal. Whether served on its own or with a side, it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
When you need something both light and satisfying, this dish is a winner. Grilled Bruschetta Chicken brings together grilled chicken and a fresh, zesty topping for a meal that’s full of flavor. It’s a great option when you want a healthy yet filling dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste. This dish is a crowd-pleaser every time.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta
This dish combines the comfort of pot roast with the satisfying texture of pasta. Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta takes tender, slow-cooked roast and pairs it with hearty pasta for a meal that’s filling and flavorful. The flavors develop as it simmers, making each bite more delicious than the last. It’s perfect for busy days when you still want a comforting, homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Looking for a side that’s both creamy and satisfying? Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone is the perfect choice. The mascarpone adds a smooth texture that balances out the spinach, creating a side that feels indulgent but still light. This dish is great for pairing with any meal or serving on its own as a quick snack.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Tortellini Soup with Sausage
This soup brings comfort to a whole new level with its hearty, flavorful combination. Tortellini Soup with Sausage pairs tender tortellini with savory sausage in a rich broth that’s both filling and satisfying. It’s a great option when you need something comforting, easy to make, and packed with flavor. Each spoonful is just as good as the last.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
If you’re in the mood for something fresh and flavorful, this dish is for you. Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes combines the creaminess of ricotta with fresh, juicy tomatoes for a simple but satisfying meal. The creaminess of the ricotta complements the bright tomatoes, making every bite delicious. It’s a great go-to meal when you want something quick yet full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Tomato Bruschetta Board
If you’re looking for a fun appetizer to share, this one’s a winner. Tomato Bruschetta Board brings together fresh, juicy tomatoes on crispy bread, making each bite fresh and satisfying. It’s a simple dish that’s perfect for gatherings, offering a light option without skimping on flavor. You’ll find yourself making this again and again for guests or just as a snack.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
For a filling yet fresh dish, this pasta is a perfect option. Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta combines savory sausage with the slight bitterness of broccoli rabe for a unique, well-rounded flavor. It’s a great way to add some greens to your pasta while keeping things hearty and flavorful. This is a meal that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
If you’re craving something indulgent, these stuffed shells have you covered. Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are packed with creamy cheese and baked to perfection in a flavorful tomato sauce. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a treat but is easy to make. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd or satisfying your own cravings.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
A bowl of this soup brings together all the things you love in a satisfying meal. Pasta e Fagioli Soup is filled with a hearty mix of pasta and beans in a savory broth. It’s one of those dishes you can enjoy any time, whether it’s a chilly evening or a quick dinner. The flavors are simple yet so comforting, making it a go-to family favorite.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup