Nonna’s 39 traditional Italian recipes are like a culinary cheat code to turn any night into a Sunday feast. From hearty classics that hug your soul to simple dishes with flavors that somehow make arguing over who does the dishes seem worth it, these recipes don’t mess around. They’re perfect for when you want to feel like you’re dining at a table where the food keeps coming, and the love is as abundant as the garlic.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
This is the kind of soup you’ll keep coming back to when you need something quick and filling. Pasta e Fagioli Soup is the perfect hearty dish to make you feel right at home. Packed with beans, pasta, and vegetables, it’s a balanced meal that hits all the right spots. It’s a timeless recipe that brings comfort and warmth to the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Pesto Orzo Salad
Light yet bursting with flavor, Pesto Orzo Salad brings a fresh twist to the dinner table. It’s the perfect dish for when you want something vibrant without too much fuss. Great as a side or a main, it’s a flexible recipe that shines in any spread. Expect this one to have guests asking for the recipe before the night ends.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Comfort food takes center stage with Chicken Gnocchi Soup, a creamy, hearty bowl of goodness that warms up any day. It’s the ultimate choice for those moments when nothing but a rich, satisfying meal will do. The fluffy gnocchi and tender chicken combine to create a flavor-packed experience that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for any weather or reason.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Birria Pizza
When you mix tradition with creativity, you get Birria Pizza, a recipe that’s both bold and unforgettable. The richness of birria pairs perfectly with a crispy crust, making this a standout meal. It’s perfect for those who love experimenting without straying too far from the classics. Expect this to become an instant favorite at your table.
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
When you’re craving something hearty but light, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken fits the bill perfectly. The blend of tender chicken, fresh kale, and soft tortellini makes for a satisfying meal that doesn’t feel too heavy. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any dinner table, delivering warmth and flavor in every bite. A comfort classic that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Tangy yet smooth, Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette transforms even the simplest salad into something special. It’s the kind of dressing that adds depth without overpowering. Whether drizzled over greens or used as a marinade, it’s a versatile addition to your kitchen arsenal. Once you try it, the store-bought dressing will never be the same.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette
Italian Chicken
Bursting with flavor, Italian Chicken is the answer to mealtime boredom. It’s a versatile dish that works for weeknights, dinner parties, or anything in between. With its bold Italian flair, it’s a meal that stands out without trying too hard. Serve it up with your favorite sides, and you’ve got a plate full of satisfaction every time.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken
Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Ever wish pizza night could be even more exciting? Enter Shrimp Scampi Pizza, a unique twist on two culinary classics. This recipe delivers bold seafood flavors on a crisp, perfect crust that’ll keep everyone talking. It’s the kind of dish that transforms casual dining into something unforgettable, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Pizza
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
A bowl of Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is like a warm, comforting embrace. Roasting the tomatoes brings out a deep, rich flavor that you can’t get from a regular tomato soup. It’s the kind of dish that feels homemade and familiar—ideal for those nights when you need something simple but satisfying. Pair it with a grilled cheese, and you’ve got a meal that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup
Authentic Bolognese Sauce
It’s the real deal—no shortcuts here. Authentic Bolognese Sauce is the foundation of countless Italian dishes and is sure to become your go-to for rich, savory meals. It’s a slow-cooked masterpiece that creates depth and complexity in every bite. Whether served with pasta, lasagna, or simply on its own, this sauce brings the kind of flavor you can’t find in store-bought versions.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce
Italian Pot Roast Pasta
When you’re craving a hearty, filling meal, Italian Pot Roast Pasta delivers in spades. The tender pot roast pairs perfectly with pasta, creating a combination that’s both rich and satisfying. It’s a dish that feels like a family tradition, bringing everyone to the table for a meal that’s impossible to resist. Serve it up, and prepare for empty plates.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Polenta with Mascarpone
If you’re looking for a comforting side that adds a touch of decadence, Polenta with Mascarpone is a must-try. The mascarpone brings a creamy richness that pairs perfectly with the soft texture of polenta. It’s a side dish that feels indulgent without being overwhelming. Whether served with grilled meats or a vegetable dish, this is a pairing that works every time.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone
Garlic Shrimp Scampi
There’s no need to wait for a seafood feast when Garlic Shrimp Scampi brings elegance to any table. This recipe delivers bold flavors with just the right touch of richness. It’s the kind of dish that makes everyone lean in for seconds, no questions asked. Perfect for dinner guests—or just treating yourself like royalty on a Tuesday night.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
A true celebration of fresh, seasonal ingredients in every bite. Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce brings the sweetness of fresh tomatoes to life in a simple yet flavorful dish. This recipe lets the tomatoes shine with their natural sweetness, creating a light and refreshing sauce. It’s a perfect option for those nights when you want something fast, flavorful, and easy to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Ham & Asparagus Pizza
If you’re looking to mix up pizza night, Ham & Asparagus Pizza is your new best friend. The combination of savory ham and fresh asparagus brings a whole new flavor profile to the table. It’s a fun twist on traditional pizza, offering a little bit of everything without the overload. One slice and you’ll wonder why you hadn’t tried it sooner.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza
Chicken Piccata
Whether for a quick dinner or special occasion, it never disappoints. Chicken Piccata is the kind of dish that takes a classic chicken meal to the next level. With its sharp lemon and caper sauce, it’s a bold and tangy way to enjoy tender chicken. This recipe offers the right balance of brightness and richness, making it an instant hit every time it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
When you’re looking for a dish that’s both simple and indulgent, Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce fits the bill. The pillowy gnocchi soaks up the creamy sauce, creating a rich, satisfying meal. With the fresh zing of lemon and the sharpness of parmesan, it’s a combination that’s as comforting as it is delicious. A perfect dish for any occasion, no matter how casual or fancy.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
If you’re craving something savory and comforting, Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe checks all the boxes. The combination of savory sausage, tender gnocchi, and slightly bitter broccoli rabe creates a meal that’s hearty and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that feels like home, no matter where you’re eating it. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or whenever you need something to stick to your ribs.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
A side dish that steals the show, Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone takes a classic vegetable and turns it into something extraordinary. The richness of mascarpone adds depth and creaminess that elevates the roasted asparagus. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish, perfect for any meal or as an impressive side at your next dinner party. You won’t believe how easy it is to make this a new favorite.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone
Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
If you’re a fan of rich, creamy alfredo, Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce is the perfect homemade alternative. With its smooth texture and comforting flavor, it brings restaurant-quality sauce to your own kitchen. It’s perfect for drizzling over pasta, chicken, or even vegetables—creating a decadent meal every time. Once you try this version, you’ll never settle for anything else.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce
Chicken Cacciatore
It’s the kind of meal you’ll look forward to cooking again and again. Chicken Cacciatore is the definition of hearty comfort food that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. The rich, savory sauce and tender chicken come together for a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a crowd, this classic recipe has been passed down for generations.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cacciatore
Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
If you’re a fan of classic Italian comfort food, Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers brings that delicious dish right to your table. With savory sausage and sweet peppers, this recipe captures all the warmth and flavor of a great Italian meal. Serve it over pasta or on its own—either way, it’s a winner. Once you try this version, you’ll never look back.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Maggiano’s Little Italy Sausage & Peppers
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
If you like your chicken with a bit of flair, Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is the answer. Topped with a fresh, zesty bruschetta, it’s a simple yet flavorful way to elevate grilled chicken. The combination of tender chicken and vibrant toppings makes every bite a winner. Whether served with a side of veggies or over pasta, it’s sure to please everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Perfect for any occasion when you need a meal that feels like a treat. Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka brings restaurant-quality pasta right to your kitchen. The creamy vodka sauce envelops the rigatoni in a rich, flavorful coating that’s guaranteed to satisfy. It’s the kind of pasta that makes you feel like you’re dining out but without the wait.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
For a sandwich that takes lunch to a whole new level, Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich hits the spot. The combination of grilled chicken, fresh mozzarella, and a punch of basil makes for a mouthwatering bite. This sandwich has all the flavors of a traditional Caprese but in a convenient, handheld form. Perfect for a casual meal that feels a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Tomato Bruschetta
Simple, fresh, and always crowd-pleasing—what more could you ask for? Tomato Bruschetta is an easy and flavorful way to start a meal or enjoy as a light bite. It’s the perfect appetizer for casual dinners or holiday gatherings. The burst of freshness from the tomatoes paired with a crispy base creates a satisfying snack everyone can agree on.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
For a comforting, flavorful soup, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is the perfect choice. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and a savory broth makes every spoonful satisfying. It’s a recipe that feels both hearty and light, making it ideal for any season. A dish that’s just as much about comfort as it is about flavor—serve it up, and let the compliments roll in.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Pizza Pasta Salad
Looking for a dish that’s fun, unique, and full of flavor? Pizza Pasta Salad is your answer. Combining pasta with classic pizza toppings, it’s like enjoying a pizza without the crust. This dish is perfect for casual gatherings or a quick weeknight meal that everyone will love. It’s the kind of recipe that will make you look at pasta salad in a whole new way.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Salad
Classic Shrimp Scampi
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser that always leaves everyone wanting more. Classic Shrimp Scampi is the go-to dish for when you want something quick yet indulgent. With its rich, buttery sauce and succulent shrimp, it’s hard to beat. Whether served over pasta, rice, or just with a side of crusty bread, it’s guaranteed to be the highlight of your meal.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shrimp Scampi
Grilled Sausage & Peppers
A crowd favorite—no one leaves hungry. Grilled Sausage & Peppers is a classic Italian combo that brings both comfort and flavor to the table. The smoky sausages and sweet, caramelized peppers create a dish that’s simple yet satisfying. Whether served on its own or as a topping for pasta, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a celebration of Italian cooking.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Sausage & Peppers
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
For those who love shrimp, Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo takes creamy alfredo sauce to a whole new level. With plump, tender shrimp swimming in the rich sauce, this dish is indulgence at its finest. It’s the kind of meal that feels fancy without the fancy price tag. Serve it up for a special dinner or treat yourself to a little luxury on any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta
The beauty of Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta is that it’s as simple as it is delicious. Set it and forget it, and by dinnertime, you’ve got a rich, flavorful meal that’ll feed the whole family. The tender pot roast combines perfectly with the pasta for a meal that’s both filling and comforting. Plus, it’s perfect for busy weeknights when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Rich and indulgent, Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone transforms a side dish into the star of the meal. The mascarpone adds a smooth, luxurious texture to the spinach, making it impossible to resist. It’s a perfect match for just about any main course, bringing a touch of elegance to everyday dinners. Once you’ve tried it, you’ll find yourself craving it often.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone
Tortellini Soup with Sausage
For a meal that feels like a warm hug, Tortellini Soup with Sausage delivers in every spoonful. This dish combines hearty sausage with tender tortellini for a perfect balance of richness and satisfaction. It’s a recipe that works just as well for quiet nights in as it does for entertaining. Pair it with crusty bread, and dinner’s a done deal.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Sausage
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Creamy, comforting, and undeniably satisfying, Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes turns dinner into an experience. It’s the perfect blend of indulgence and tradition, hitting every note just right. A bowl of this is more than a meal—it’s a reminder that Italian cooking is about heart, soul, and bringing people together. Gather around because this one never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Tomato Bruschetta Board
An easy-to-make crowd-pleaser that works as a pre-dinner snack or a fun addition to a charcuterie board. Tomato Bruschetta Board is the kind of appetizer that gets everyone to gather around the table. With its fresh flavors and variety of textures, it makes every bite exciting. Just be warned—guests might fight over the last piece.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
With its bold combination of flavors, Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta proves that simple ingredients can make a big statement. It’s a hearty dish that satisfies even the hungriest of crowds without overcomplicating things. Whether served for a cozy family meal or a lively dinner party, it’s guaranteed to leave plates empty. A true champion of crowd-pleasing meals.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
When you want comfort food that’s filling and satisfying, Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are a no-brainer. These oversized shells are packed with creamy cheese that creates the perfect bite. Whether served as a main or part of a larger meal, it’s a dish that guarantees satisfaction with every forkful. You’ll be hard-pressed to find anyone not asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Classic Caprese Salad
A timeless Italian favorite, Classic Caprese Salad effortlessly balances simplicity and bold flavor. It’s a dish that’s all about harmony—every element working in perfect sync. Whether paired with a main course or enjoyed on its own, it’s like a mini getaway to a Mediterranean table. Serve it up, and suddenly, every meal feels like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad