25 Italian Recipes That Taste Like Nonna Made Them Herself

Discover the rich flavors of Italian cuisine with these mouthwatering Italian recipes. From Steak Pizzaiola to Chicken Gnocchi Soup, each dish brings a taste of Italy to your kitchen. Whether you’re craving Shrimp Scampi or a hearty Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew, these recipes are sure to impress family and friends. Prepare to indulge in the delightful world of Italian cooking with meals that are both satisfying and easy to create.

A plate of creamy pasta topped with grilled chicken, fresh basil leaves, and grated cheese, with gold forks on the side. — Photo credit: Chew Out Loud.

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Minestrone Soup with Sausage

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

Enjoy a steaming bowl of Italian minestrone soup filled with fresh vegetables and savory sausage. This hearty dish is perfect for any occasion and showcases comforting flavors that remind you of classic Italian cooking. You’ll find this soup is a fantastic option for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage

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.

Garlic bread from the air fryer provides a crispy and buttery treat that's super easy to whip up. With its golden crust and soft inside, this side dish perfectly complements pasta or salad. You’ll love how this quick recipe brings a touch of Italy to your meals!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Garlic Bread

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.

Dive into a bowl of Ciambotta, a rustic vegetable stew that features a variety of fresh produce and aromatic herbs. This dish is not only healthy but also embodies the warmth of Italian home cooking. It's a wonderful choice for a comforting dinner or a flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Ciambotta Italian Vegetable Stew

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.

Roasting Roma tomatoes in the air fryer brings out their natural sweetness and creates a wonderfully tender texture. This simple recipe enhances your favorite Italian dishes with fresh flavors. You’ll find these tomatoes are a delicious addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Roasted Roma Tomatoes

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 makes for a filling and creamy dinner option that’s easy to prepare. With succulent salmon and rich pasta, this dish brings a touch of luxury while still being simple enough for a weeknight meal. It highlights how Italian flavors can elevate any dinner!
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Alfredo

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 serves up juicy beef simmered in a robust tomato sauce. The combination of herbs and spices gives this dish a hearty flavor that pairs beautifully with pasta or crusty bread. This Italian classic is perfect for a satisfying dinner any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Steak Pizzaiola

Zucchini Bruschetta

Try zucchini bruschetta for a fresh and unique appetizer that impresses guests. The combination of grilled zucchini and vibrant toppings brings a delightful crunch and flavor. This dish embodies the essence of Italian appetizers, making it an excellent choice for your next gathering.
Get the Recipe: Zucchini Bruschetta

Shrimp Scampi

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

Shrimp scampi offers a quick and tasty dinner option that's ready in just 20 minutes. The tender shrimp, garlic, and lemon come together in this dish to create a vibrant flavor profile. This simple Italian dish makes it easy to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Scampi

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

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

Cozy up with a bowl of chicken gnocchi soup that’s hearty and satisfying. With tender chicken and soft gnocchi in a flavorful broth, this recipe is perfect for chilly nights. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a comforting dish that highlights classic Italian ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Alfredo Steak Pasta

Alfredo steak pasta combines creamy sauce with tender steak and pasta for a rich meal. This dish strikes a perfect balance between simplicity and flavor, making it an ideal choice for a cozy dinner. It showcases the comforting side of Italian meals that you’ll want to revisit.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta

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 is perfect for those who want homemade bread without the hassle. Its crusty exterior and soft inside make it a versatile choice for sandwiches or simply enjoying with butter. You’ll appreciate how this recipe fits seamlessly into your Italian-inspired meals.
Get the Recipe: No Knead Italian Artisan Bread

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 presents a classic Italian dish in a personal serving size. With layers of pasta, rich sauce, and cheesy goodness, this recipe makes for a delightful weeknight meal. It’s a great option for anyone who loves traditional flavors without the fuss of a large casserole.
Get the Recipe: Individual Lasagna

Slow Cooker Beef Braciole

Stuffed steak slice on pasta with tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese and herbs on a white plate. — Slow Cooker Beef Braciole. Photo credit: Flavorful Eats.

Slow cooker beef braciole is a delicious dish that features tender flank steak rolled with a flavorful filling. Cooking it in marinara sauce allows the flavors to meld beautifully over time. This hearty Italian meal is perfect for serving alongside pasta or a fresh salad.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Beef Braciole

30-Minute Tuscan Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

A bowl of tortellini soup with spinach, tomatoes, sausage, and grated cheese on top. — 30-Minute Tuscan Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach. Photo credit: Chew Out Loud.

Tuscan tortellini with sausage and spinach is a quick, one-skillet meal that your family will love. Ready in less than 30 minutes, this dish offers robust flavors in a simple format. It's a fantastic way to bring Italian flavors to the dinner table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Tuscan Tortellini with Sausage and Spinach

Pasta alla Norma

A bowl of rigatoni pasta with tomato sauce, mixed vegetables, topped with grated cheese and fresh basil, with a fork inside. — Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: GypsyPlate.

Pasta alla Norma features a chunky tomato sauce with eggplant that’s infused with herbs. This Sicilian dish celebrates the flavors of fresh vegetables and pasta, making it a favorite. It’s a must-try recipe for anyone looking to enjoy authentic Italian taste!
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

A close-up of a pasta dish with spaghetti, cherry tomatoes, diced chicken, grated cheese, and balsamic glaze. — Bruschetta Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

Bruschetta chicken pasta combines juicy chicken with fresh tomatoes and basil for a refreshing meal. The addition of balsamic vinegar brings a delightful tang that complements the pasta perfectly. This dish showcases how Italian recipes can be both simple and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Italian Wedding Soup with Escarole

A bowl of soup with meatballs, acini di pepe pasta, carrots, and green leafy vegetables in broth. — Italian Wedding Soup with Escarole. Photo credit: All in the Family Recipes.

Italian wedding soup with escarole warms you up with its savory broth and tender meatballs. This classic recipe is packed with veggies, creating a comforting bowl that feels like a hug. It's a great choice for chilly evenings or family gatherings!
Get the Recipe: Italian Wedding Soup with Escarole

Easy Meatball Sub Recipe (30 Minutes)

Close-up of a meatball sub with marinara sauce and melted cheese on a black plate. — Easy Meatball Sub Recipe (30 Minutes). Photo credit: Two Kooks In The Kitchen.

Meatball subs bring together tender meatballs in marinara sauce, topped with melted cheese in a toasted roll. This quick recipe offers satisfying comfort that everyone loves. It’s an easy way to enjoy a hearty Italian-inspired meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatball Sub Recipe (30 Minutes)

Authentic Italian Lasagna

A slice of lasagna on a gray plate next to a glass baking dish with more lasagna. A beige cloth is partially visible beside the dish. — Authentic Italian Lasagna. Photo credit: Always From Scratch.

Authentic Italian lasagna is a beloved dish that's perfect for special occasions. With layers of rich meat sauce and creamy ricotta, this recipe is a classic that never disappoints. It's a great choice for anyone looking to indulge in traditional Italian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Italian Lasagna

Frutti di Mare

A pan of seafood pasta with prawns, mussels, and parsley in a red tomato sauce. — Frutti di Mare. Photo credit: GypsyPlate.

Frutti di Mare features a mix of seafood in a spicy sauce over pasta, capturing the essence of coastal Italian dining. This dish combines clams, shrimp, and mussels for a fresh taste of the ocean. It’s perfect for seafood lovers wanting to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Frutti di Mare

Healthier Chicken Alfredo

Healthier chicken Alfredo delivers the creamy comfort you crave without the heavy ingredients. This lighter version still packs in flavor, making it a great option for those seeking a more balanced meal. It’s a smart choice when you want to enjoy Italian tastes without all the extra calories.
Get the Recipe: Healthier Chicken Alfredo

Easy Tomato Carpaccio

A plate of sliced tomatoes topped with fresh basil leaves, herbs, slices of red onion, dollops of cheese, and drizzled balsamic glaze. Utensils are placed on the side. — Easy Tomato Carpaccio. Photo credit: The Fruity Jem.

Tomato carpaccio offers a fresh, no-cook appetizer that's ready in just 10 minutes. With vibrant flavors and a beautiful presentation, this dish impresses with minimal effort. It’s a fantastic way to start any meal while showcasing the simplicity of Italian cooking.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tomato Carpaccio

Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with shredded cheese, herbs, and chunks of orange squash on a wooden table next to a dark napkin and cutlery. — Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Recipe Shuffle.

Roasted butternut squash risotto provides a creamy, comforting dish perfect for autumn. The sweetness of the squash blends beautifully with the creamy texture of the risotto. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore traditional Italian flavors in a unique way.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto

Venison Ragu with Pappardelle

A plate of pasta with chunks of meat and vegetables, garnished with herbs, on a decorative plate with a fork. — Venison Ragu with Pappardelle. Photo credit: The Pasta Project.

Venison ragu with pappardelle brings together rich flavors in a traditional Italian style. The hearty sauce pairs perfectly with wide pasta ribbons, making it a filling meal. This dish is a great way to experience authentic Italian cooking with a twist on classic ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Venison Ragu with Pappardelle

Zuppa Toscana

A bowl of creamy soup with spinach leaves and bacon pieces, on a light surface, next to fresh spinach and a small red potato. — Zuppa Toscana. Photo credit: Corrie Cooks.

Zuppa Toscana offers a hearty, comforting soup filled with sausage, potatoes, and spinach. This quick recipe is perfect for busy nights while still delivering big flavors. It's a wonderful choice for anyone looking to enjoy a cozy Italian-inspired meal that warms the heart.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana