36 Italian Recipes So Easy and Delicious They’ll Transport You to Italy With Every Bite

Good Italian recipes don’t need to be complicated to bring big flavor to the table. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up something that tastes like it came straight from a trattoria. These dishes keep things simple but never boring, making them perfect for busy nights or when you just want something comforting. No need for fancy techniques—just solid recipes that let fresh ingredients do the work. Grab a fork and get ready for some serious comfort food.

A bowl of spaghetti with tomato sauce, topped with a burrata cheese ball, pine nuts, chopped basil, and a drizzle of olive oil, with a fork. — Photo credit: Maple + Mango.

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Mini Tiramisu Cups

Two glasses of tiramisu topped with cocoa powder are placed on a white surface. A spoon lies next to the desserts, and a small bowl with more cocoa powder is in the background. — Mini Tiramisu Cups. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Mini Tiramisu Cups prove that big flavor can come in small packages. Layers of creamy mascarpone and bold coffee create an indulgent bite without the fuss of a full-sized dessert. If you're after Italian recipes, these single-serve treats bring the charm of a classic without the commitment.
Get the Recipe: Mini Tiramisu Cups

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

A plate of roasted tomatoes garnished with herbs and spices, served on a white plate. — Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes turn simple ingredients into something seriously addictive. Caramelized in minutes, these tomatoes pack an intense, rich flavor that works on everything from pasta to bruschetta. When it comes to Italian recipes, this is the kind of shortcut that still tastes like the real deal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

Shrimp Scampi

Grilled shrimp with garlic and herbs served with slices of toasted bread. — Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Shrimp Scampi is proof that fancy doesn’t have to mean complicated. A quick toss of shrimp, garlic, and white wine creates a buttery sauce that practically begs to be mopped up with bread. If you need Italian recipes that impress with minimal effort, this is the one to keep on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo Steak Pasta is what happens when rich, velvety sauce meets perfectly seared steak. Every forkful is loaded with bold flavors, making it impossible to stop at just one bite. It belongs on the list of Italian recipes that turn an ordinary night into something special.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

Air Fryer Garlic Bread

A close-up of a hand holding a slice of garlic bread topped with melted cheese and herbs. — Air Fryer Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Air Fryer Garlic Bread gets golden and crispy in minutes, no oven required. Each bite delivers a garlicky, buttery crunch that instantly upgrades any meal. Since Italian recipes shine with the right side dish, this one is a non-negotiable.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

Zucchini Bruschetta

Zucchini Bruschetta swaps out the bread for a fresh, flavorful twist. Juicy tomatoes and garlic sit on top of roasted zucchini, making it a lighter way to enjoy a classic. It’s one of those Italian recipes that proves simple can still be ridiculously good.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Steak Pizzaiola

Fried steak topped with a chunky tomato and basil sauce, served on a white plate. — Steak Pizzaiola. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Steak Pizzaiola is for those who believe steak and tomato sauce belong together. Cooked low and slow with garlic, herbs, and a punchy sauce, this dish is bold in all the right ways. It's exactly the kind of recipe that makes Italian recipes legendary.
Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

Coconut Panna Cotta

Panna cotta with spoonful taken out on plate topped with sliced strawberries. — Coconut Panna Cotta. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Coconut Panna Cotta brings creamy, silky indulgence to the dessert table. With just the right amount of sweetness, this no-fuss treat is perfect for any occasion. It’s another reminder that Italian recipes know how to do dessert right.
Get the Recipe: Coconut Panna Cotta

Almond Biscotti

Almond Biscotti makes coffee breaks way more interesting. Crunchy, nutty, and just sweet enough, these cookies are made for dunking. As far as Italian recipes go, this one is a classic that never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Almond Biscotti

Individual Lasagna

Two square ceramic dishes of baked lasagna with melted cheese on top, next to a red and white checkered napkin, on a light textured surface. — Individual Lasagna. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Individual Lasagna delivers all the layers, sauce, and cheese—just in a smaller package. No slicing needed, no sharing required, and no leftovers to worry about. This is how Italian recipes get even better.
Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

Minestrone Soup with Sausage

A bowl of hearty vegetable and meat soup with a spoon. — Minestrone Soup with Sausage. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Minestrone Soup with Sausage turns a simple pot of veggies into a seriously hearty meal. With smoky sausage and a rich broth, this soup doesn’t mess around. If you’re in the mood for Italian recipes that warm you up fast, here’s your answer.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

Salmon Pasta Alfredo

A plate of creamy salmon pasta garnished with lemon slices and parsley. — Salmon Pasta Alfredo. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Salmon Pasta Alfredo is the definition of creamy, dreamy comfort. The buttery salmon melts into the rich, cheesy sauce, creating a dish that feels like a restaurant order. It belongs on any list of Italian recipes worth making again and again.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

A bowl of ciambotta vegetable stew with diced vegetables and a garnish of herbs, served with a spoon on the side. — Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew packs in a little bit of everything—hearty veggies, fragrant herbs, and a sauce that ties it all together. Whether served on its own or piled over crusty bread, it’s as comforting as food gets. This is one of those Italian recipes that lets simple ingredients do all the work.
Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Lemon ricotta cookies on rack with icing bowl. — Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies bring a soft, cake-like texture with just the right amount of citrus. They’re the kind of cookies that disappear fast, no matter the occasion. For Italian recipes that feel like a hug in dessert form, these are a must.
Get the Recipe: Easy Lemon Ricotta Cookies

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Bowl of creamy chicken and vegetable soup with spinach and gnocchi. — Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup delivers creamy, pillowy bites of gnocchi in a rich broth. Every spoonful is packed with chicken, veggies, and a whole lot of comfort. When it comes to Italian recipes that feel like home, this one belongs at the top.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Loaf of bread sliced open with a pat of butter on one slice. — No Knead Italian Artisan Bread. Photo credit: Little Bit Recipes.

No Knead Italian Artisan Bread makes fresh, crusty loaves without the hassle. The crunchy outside, chewy inside, and deep flavor are everything good bread should be. With Italian recipes, homemade bread is always a good idea.
Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

Chicken Pesto Stuffed Shells

Baked pasta shells stuffed with cheese and herbs in a rectangular dish on a wooden table. — Chicken Pesto Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Chicken Pesto Stuffed Shells make pasta night extra fun. Creamy, cheesy, and packed with basil goodness, these shells disappear fast. If you love Italian recipes, this is the kind of dish that keeps people coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pesto Stuffed Shells

Frittata Cavolo

Glass dish with baked egg casserole topped with melted cheese, herbs, and visible slices of tomato and red pepper. — Frittata Cavolo. Photo credit: Refresh My Health.

Frittata Cavolo turns simple eggs and greens into something seriously good. Packed with flavor and perfect for any time of day, this dish proves that Italian cooking knows no limits. Italian recipes don’t get much easier—or tastier—than this.
Get the Recipe: Frittata Cavolo

Rigatoni all'Amatriciana

A bowl of rigatoni pasta with tomato sauce and basil, topped with grated cheese. Accompanied by a piece of torn bread and a glass of white wine on a light-colored table. — Rigatoni all'Amatriciana. Photo credit: The Savory Cipolla.

Rigatoni all'Amatriciana delivers bold flavors with crispy guanciale, rich tomatoes, and just the right kick of heat. The ridges on the rigatoni make sure every bite grabs onto that velvety sauce, giving you a forkful of pure comfort. Italian recipes don’t get much better than this classic done right!
Get the Recipe: Rigatoni all'Amatriciana

Creamy Anchovy Bruschetta with Parsley

Toasted bread slices with green spread on a wooden board, garnished with cherry tomatoes and parsley leaves. — Creamy Anchovy Bruschetta with Parsley. Photo credit: My Chef's Apron.

Creamy Anchovy Bruschetta with Parsley is proof that a little umami goes a long way. Anchovies, cream, and fresh herbs transform a simple piece of toasted bread into something you’ll keep reaching for. When it comes to Italian recipes, this one is an easy way to add a punch of flavor to your table.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Anchovy Bruschetta with Parsley

Ground Chicken Spaghetti

Plate of spaghetti with tomato-based sauce and grated cheese, garnished with basil. Nearby, a pot of pasta, a bowl of grated cheese, and bowls of pepper and salt on a marble surface. — Ground Chicken Spaghetti. Photo credit: Food Exit Recipes.

Ground Chicken Spaghetti is the answer to dinnertime drama—no one complains, and plates get cleaned. Tender spaghetti meets a rich, veggie-packed sauce with ground chicken that soaks up every bit of flavor. Italian recipes like this make weeknights easier and way more delicious.
Get the Recipe: Ground Chicken Spaghetti

Chicken Parmesan

Baked eggplant slices topped with melted cheese, tomato sauce, and basil leaves in a rectangular white dish. — Chicken Parmesan. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

Chicken Parmesan is crispy, cheesy, and downright irresistible. Juicy breaded chicken meets a blanket of marinara and gooey melted mozzarella for a dish that never goes out of style. If Italian recipes had a popularity contest, this would take the crown.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Parmesan

High Protein Skillet Lasagna

Plate of lasagna topped with beef sauce and ricotta, garnished with basil leaves. A bowl of grated cheese and basil are on the side. — High Protein Skillet Lasagna. Photo credit: One Wholesome Life.

High Protein Skillet Lasagna gives you all the cheesy, saucy layers without the stress of stacking. One skillet, simple steps, and dinner’s ready before you even think about preheating the oven. Italian recipes don’t have to take all day, and this proves it.
Get the Recipe: High Protein Skillet Lasagna

Lemon Pistachio Gremolata

A bowl of green herb and nut mixture, garnished with whole nuts, next to a spoon and fresh cilantro leaves. — Lemon Pistachio Gremolata. Photo credit: Nuts and Twigs.

Lemon Pistachio Gremolata is the secret to waking up any dish with a citrusy, nutty crunch. Whether you toss it on pasta, veggies, or grilled meat, it adds instant freshness. Italian recipes shine when simple ingredients do all the heavy lifting!
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pistachio Gremolata

Italian Chopped Salad

A bowl of salad with lettuce, cabbage, pasta, bacon, and cheese, served in a white bowl. — Italian Chopped Salad. Photo credit: Fantabulosity.

Italian Chopped Salad is everything you love about a loaded salad—crunchy greens, pasta, chicken, bacon, and a zippy dressing. It’s hearty enough to be a meal but light enough to leave room for dessert. When it comes to Italian recipes, this one knows how to bring bold flavors to the table.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chopped Salad

Pepperoni Pasta Bake with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella

Plate of pasta bake with melted cheese and chopped herbs on a wooden table, next to a partially visible baking dish. — Pepperoni Pasta Bake with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella. Photo credit: Nest and Nosh.

Pepperoni Pasta Bake with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella is what happens when pizza and pasta decide to team up. Chewy pasta, crispy pepperoni, and layers of melted cheese make this a guaranteed family favorite. If you love Italian recipes that practically beg for seconds, this one delivers.
Get the Recipe: Pepperoni Pasta Bake with Italian Sausage and Mozzarella

Burrata Bruschetta

Close-up of bruschetta slices topped with cherry tomatoes, basil leaves, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze on a wooden surface. — Burrata Bruschetta. Photo credit: Maple + Mango.

Burrata Bruschetta proves that sometimes, simple is best. Creamy burrata, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bread create the kind of bite that keeps you coming back. Italian recipes don’t get much easier—or tastier—than this.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Bruschetta

Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine

A skillet of shrimp pasta garnished with parsley and a lemon slice, accompanied by grated cheese, red pepper flakes, and forks on a plate. — Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine. Photo credit: Food Exit Recipes.

Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine brings together tender shrimp, buttery garlic sauce, and silky pasta in one crave-worthy dish. It’s fancy enough for date night but quick enough for a last-minute dinner. Italian recipes always find a way to make seafood and pasta the perfect pair.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi Fettuccine

Italian Chickpea Soup

Bowl of chickpea soup with carrots, spinach, and zucchini, garnished with grated cheese, next to bay leaves and a block of cheese. — Italian Chickpea Soup. Photo credit: Skinny Spatula.

Italian Chickpea Soup is warm, cozy, and packed with everything good—hearty chickpeas, fresh veggies, and rich broth. It’s easy on the budget but loaded with flavor, making it a go-to meal when you need something nourishing. Italian recipes prove that simple ingredients make the best comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chickpea Soup

Burrata Pasta

Burrata Pasta is a plate of pure indulgence, where creamy burrata melts into garlicky tomato sauce for the ultimate bite. Twirl your fork, scoop up some cheese, and let the flavors do all the work. Italian recipes like this make it impossible to stop at just one serving.
Get the Recipe: Burrata Pasta

Skillet Spaghetti and Meatballs

A skillet contains spaghetti and meatballs in tomato sauce, garnished with herbs. A small bowl of grated cheese is on the side. — Skillet Spaghetti and Meatballs. Photo credit: Dutch Oven Daddy.

Skillet Spaghetti and Meatballs is what happens when classic comfort food meets easy cleanup. Juicy meatballs, perfectly cooked spaghetti, and a rich tomato sauce all come together in one pan. When Italian recipes bring this much ease and flavor, they become instant favorites.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Spaghetti and Meatballs

Alfredo Sauce with Parmesan and Cream

A plate of fettuccine pasta topped with creamy white sauce and garnished with chopped parsley. Beside the plate is a sprig of parsley and a bowl of grated cheese. — Alfredo Sauce with Parmesan and Cream. Photo credit: Nest and Nosh.

Alfredo Sauce with Parmesan and Cream is pure liquid gold. Butter, cream, and Parmesan swirl together to coat every noodle in luscious, cheesy goodness. Italian recipes remind us that sometimes, three ingredients are all you need to make magic.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Sauce with Parmesan and Cream

Blackened Chicken Alfredo

A pan of creamy pasta topped with sliced grilled chicken and garnished with parsley. — Blackened Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: 30 Minute Kitchen.

Blackened Chicken Alfredo turns up the heat with smoky, spice-crusted chicken over creamy pasta. The contrast of bold seasoning and rich sauce makes every forkful unforgettable. Italian recipes love a good balance of spice and comfort, and this dish nails it.
Get the Recipe: Blackened Chicken Alfredo

Mozzarella Tomato Basil Salad

Caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, fresh basil, and balsamic glaze on a white oval plate. — Mozzarella Tomato Basil Salad. Photo credit: Grits and Gouda.

Mozzarella Tomato Basil Salad keeps things fresh with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil. It’s the perfect light dish when you need something quick and refreshing. Italian recipes always find a way to make simple ingredients shine.
Get the Recipe: Mozzarella Tomato Basil Salad

Pasta Frittata

A baked spaghetti pie with a golden crust, garnished with herbs, and sliced into portions on a white plate. — Pasta Frittata. Photo credit: The Heirloom Pantry.

Pasta Frittata is the ultimate way to turn last night’s pasta into today’s brunch. Eggs, cheese, and herbs come together in a crispy, golden masterpiece that’s good warm or cold. Italian recipes prove that leftovers don’t have to be boring!
Get the Recipe: Pasta Frittata

Chicken Limone

A plate with lemon chicken topped with thyme, fettuccine pasta, and arugula. Slices of lemon and thyme sprigs are nearby, with a pot partially visible in the background. — Chicken Limone. Photo credit: 30 Minute Kitchen.

Chicken Limone is bright, citrusy, and downright irresistible. Lemon-kissed chicken over pasta makes for a meal that’s both fresh and comforting. Italian recipes love a good squeeze of lemon, and this one gets it just right.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Limone