47 Italian Recipes For When Dinner Needs To Hit The Mark

On nights where you want dinner to feel like a sure thing, 47 Italian recipes stand out for comfort and reliability. Plans might be rushed, but meals can still deliver big flavor and a welcoming atmosphere. Family and friends appreciate having dishes that work for any occasion without much fuss. Choosing Italian brings the kind of variety that fits almost any mood.

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible. — Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby. — Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Deep, nutty comfort comes alive with this Butternut Squash Risotto in your bowl. Soft rice clings to every sweet cube, making it perfect for evenings when only something warm will do. Each bite carries a creamy texture and a hint of gentle earthiness. I love spooning out leftovers for an easy, heartwarming lunch.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

Pizza Bagels

Little snacks like these Pizza Bagels bring out the fun at dinnertime, especially when you want to keep things casual. Crisp edges hold gooey melted cheese, while every topping can be unique. Kids and adults alike enjoy loading up their favorites before baking. I like stashing a few in the freezer for surprise hunger attacks.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

Vegetable Pasta

A plate of penne pasta with roasted vegetables, sprinkled with grated cheese and chopped herbs, with a black fork on the side. — Vegetable Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rainbow colors and bright flavors are always welcome at the table, and this Vegetable Pasta brings both to dinner. You get crunch, warmth, and comfort without waiting long in the kitchen. It’s a creative solution for cleaning up odds and ends in the fridge. I rotate in different veggies every time for a new spin.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Pasta

Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby. — Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes dinner calls for a light, breezy start, and this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes delivers with little effort. Sweet tomatoes, creamy cheese, and basil feel fresh even after a busy day. The flavors help reset your appetite for the main course. I usually serve this topped with a drizzle of homemade dressing for extra brightness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Caprese Pizza

Craving something simple yet packed with flavor? This Caprese Pizza hits the mark with bubbling cheese, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil in every slice. The balance of melty and crisp brings people back for more. I bake two at once since leftovers never last long in my kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pizza

Gnocchi

Nothing feels quite as comforting as the pillowy texture of this Gnocchi on a chilly evening. Every dumpling holds onto sauce and stays soft from the first bite to the last. It’s great for mixing up the week’s meal routine. I make extra and sear leftovers for a next-day treat.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Marinara Sauce

A glass jar filled with tomato sauce sits on a plate. Two spoons are beside it. A small bowl is in the background, slightly out of focus. — Marinara Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bringing an aroma of tomatoes and herbs into the air, this Marinara Sauce is a must for all your Italian-inspired dinners. Spoon it over pasta, dip your breadsticks, or top homemade pizzas with confidence. The sauce works just as well in simple or fancy meals. I keep jars of it on hand for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Sauce

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate. — Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A crisp crust and a blanket of simple flavors make this Neapolitan Pizza stand out when only the classics will do. Every bite offers perfect chew under creamy cheese and tangy tomato. You can serve it just as it is or add your favorite extras. I find it’s unbeatable with a green salad alongside.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs. — Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Eggplant brings a hearty feel to every plate, and this Pasta alla Norma turns cold nights into something special. Lush tomato sauce clings to pasta shapes, while cooked eggplant melts into each bite. The dish brings both comfort and lasting flavor. I ladle plenty into bowls for second helpings.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Pizza Salad

Fresh and crunchy meets cheesy and bold in this Pizza Salad, where dinner feels lighter but still complete. Toss crisp greens with classic pizza toppings to keep things interesting. The salad works great as a quick main or a smart side. I use this recipe when I want pizza without the heaviness.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Cannoli Cookies

A plate of cookies topped with chopped pistachios, drizzled with chocolate, and dusted with powdered sugar. — Cannoli Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Dessert takes a playful turn with Cannoli Cookies inspired by the classic Italian treat. Sweet ricotta flavor and a light crunch set them apart from regular cookies. Each one pairs nicely with coffee or an after-dinner chat. I usually double the batch since they always disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Mushroom Bolognese

A plate of tagliatelle pasta topped with tomato sauce and chopped herbs, with a black fork resting on the side. — Mushroom Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Roasted mushroom goodness turns this Mushroom Bolognese into a comfort food main for evening meals. The sauce clings to noodles and fills the kitchen with a cozy, hearty aroma. Each forkful makes you want to slow down and relax. I always save extra sauce for topping bread or tossing with rice later.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese

Fiery Arrabiata Sauce

Arrabiata sauce in an open jar wit fresh basil on top and tomatoes and chili flakes around it. — Fiery Arrabiata Sauce. Photo credit: .

Spicy tomato sauce gets everyone talking when this Fiery Arrabiata Sauce is on the menu. There’s real warmth in every bite, so you can break from routine winter recipes. It perks up any pasta, pizza, or even cooked chicken breasts for a fast meal. I keep a jar handy for adding a kick to simple dinners.
Get the Recipe: Fiery Arrabiata Sauce

Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time

Someone sprinkling flour over pizza dough. — Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade pies shine with this Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time as the base. Smooth, pillowy dough bakes into a golden crust that never feels tough or dry. You’ll be tempted to try new toppings once you see how flexible this dough is. I shape extra balls and tuck them in the freezer for fast pizza nights.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time

Chunky Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices. — Chunky Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thick vegetables and comforting broth define this Chunky Minestrone Soup, perfect for cold-weather nights. Every spoonful feels like a meal, whether you fold in beans, noodles, or just extra greens. The flavors deepen after a day in the fridge. I like adding a sprinkle of cheese before serving to make it extra cozy.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Minestrone Soup

Garlic Aioli

Creamy, tangy, and just a little bold, this Garlic Aioli takes everyday meals to the next level. Sandwiches, steamed veggies, and roasted potatoes all shine with a spoonful on the side. You never need much to boost a dish from simple to memorable. I use leftovers as a dip for chips or pizza crusts.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface. — Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Finger food gets a boost with these Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts that look beautiful and taste even better. Puff pastry or pie crust holds juicy tomatoes, creamy cheese, and herby sauce in every bite. They disappear quickly from appetizer tables. I love serving them with an extra sprinkle of basil for wow factor.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves. — Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Creamy-filled pasta rounds out a wintry supper, especially when you serve this Cheese Ravioli. Each soft pillow is packed with gentle flavor, making dinner both comforting and filling. Top with sauce, pesto, or just melted butter for variety. I always make enough for seconds since everyone asks for more.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Fresh Basil Pesto

Homemade pesto in a cast iron dish with nuts and basil around it. — Fresh Basil Pesto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Vibrant green and bursting with freshness, this Fresh Basil Pesto brightens any dinner, cold weather or not. Blend it with pasta, swirl it on pizza, or stir into cooked grains for something lively. The sauce holds up beautifully in the fridge all week. I scoop dollops onto soup and eggs as a secret upgrade.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Basil Pesto

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper. — Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chewy dough forms the base for this Mushroom Pizza, loaded with savory mushrooms and bubbling cheese. Each slice brings together earthy flavors and a crisp bite, ideal for a night in. You’re free to add extra toppings or keep it classic. I enjoy a reheated slice for midnight cravings.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Hearty Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves. — Hearty Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Kitchens feel warmer with hearty bowls like this Hearty Tortellini Soup in the winter. Tender pasta puffs float in a rich broth with a mix of vegetables tucked in. It’s a meal that feeds more than hunger—it brings comfort. I always scoop out extra for easy lunches later in the week.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Tortellini Soup

Neapolitan Ice Cream

You’ll taste a little nostalgia with each colorful scoop of this Neapolitan Ice Cream after dinner. Three flavors—chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla—give everyone a favorite to pick. The dessert wins with kids and adults alike. I love putting a spoonful on brownies for special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights

Four slices of French bread pizza with tomatoes and cheese on a cutting board. — French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Solution for those evenings when time is tight: try this French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights. Thick bread slices bake up with a crispy shell and bubbly cheese on top. Each person can make their own combination of toppings. I like to serve it with a big bowl of greens for a balanced meal.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs. — Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a dish that stands out, check out this Morel Mushroom Pasta. Wild mushrooms lend a one-of-a-kind aroma and chewy bite, making each plate extra appealing on cold evenings. Pairing it with a light sauce shows the flavors off. I make this whenever I want a meal that feels a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Tiramisu Ice Cream

A close-up of a glass dish with tiramisu being scooped out, showing layers of cream, cake, and cocoa powder. — Tiramisu Ice Cream. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic coffee dessert meets frozen treat in this Tiramisu Ice Cream. Creamy and cool, every spoonful reminds you of that favorite layered dessert. It finishes off pizza nights or big pasta dinners perfectly. I add a drizzle of chocolate syrup when I want extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Ice Cream

Artichoke Pizza

A pizza with artichokes, tomatoes and spinach. — Artichoke Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheesy and unexpected, this Artichoke Pizza breaks up the routine when you want a new take on Italian night. Slightly tangy with a mellow bite, each slice feels both rich and bright. You get layers of flavor without a lot of extra prep. I pack leftovers for a fast lunch on chilly days.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up. — Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layer after layer, this Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna feels like pure comfort every time you cut a slice. The creamy cheese and spinach blend melts together, warming everyone at the table. It’s simple to reheat for second or even third meals. I look forward to the cozy aroma filling the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Tiramisu cookies

A soft cookie topped with cream and cocoa powder has a bite taken out of it. Other similar cookies are visible in the background. — Tiramisu cookies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Classic cake flavor meets the fun of cookies in these Tiramisu cookies. Soft, cake-like texture holds gentle coffee and chocolate notes, giving your dessert tray a fun twist. They taste great with a hot drink or on their own. I like sneaking a few into lunchboxes for a nice surprise.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu cookies

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese. — Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a dinner that tastes just like your favorite spot, try this Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto. Creamy rice and tender mushrooms fill the bowl, sending a rich aroma through your house. Serving it hot makes any evening a little more special. I find leftovers taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce. — Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few dishes hit the spot like creamy, gooey Mac and Cheese does for grown-ups and kids alike. Each spoonful brings together comforting warmth and familiar creaminess. The classic recipe fits every mood, fancy or casual. I double the batch to keep portions ready to go in the freezer.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern. — Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dessert goes colorful with this Fruit Pizza, which blends sweet dough, creamy topping, and bright, juicy fruit. Every bite brings smiles as naturally sweet toppings pair with a chilled, chewy base. Slices make dessert parties more fun. I design mine in a pattern to make it look extra special.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Caprese Appetizer Bites

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board. — Caprese Appetizer Bites. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Skewered and bite-sized, these Caprese Appetizer Bites offer all the flavors of an Italian salad in a single mouthful. Juicy tomatoes, soft mozzarella, and fresh herbs work together for a crisp finish. They go fast at family gatherings or dinner parties. I prep large trays for any event since leftovers fit right into lunchboxes.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer Bites

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

A white dish filled with cooked fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, with a silver fork resting inside. — Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you need a no-fuss new dinner idea, this Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta delivers bold flavor in barely any time. Cheese melts into a creamy sauce that hugs each noodle, with pops of herbs throughout. The end result always wins compliments. I return to this recipe whenever I want easy comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Tortilla Pizza

Crisp, thin-crust lovers should check out this Tortilla Pizza recipe for instant pizza cravings. You can personalize each round and have dinner ready in just minutes. Overlapping cheese and sauce ooze over crispy bases for a snack everyone enjoys. I find it’s a smart way to finish up leftovers from the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Garlic Knots

Little bites of Garlic Knots offer both soft chew and a punch of flavor at the dinner table. Dipped in sauce or served plain, they pair with almost any meal. The aroma alone draws people to the kitchen. I bake extra and keep a stash in the freezer for sudden cravings.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Aglio e Olio

Close-up of fettuccine pasta tossed with grated cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes being lifted with a fork. — Aglio e Olio. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple ingredients and quick cooking make this Aglio e Olio a household favorite in my recipe box. Glossy pasta gets a gentle coating of garlic oil, with just a hint of heat in every forkful. You get dinner on the table with almost no effort. I toss in more herbs for extra color and brightness.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil

Someone slicing a pizza with a pizza cutter. — Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheese, tomatoes, and herbs blend perfectly on this Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil for a fresh twist on a classic. Every slice bursts with juiciness and brightness, making it hard to stop at just one. The crispy crust holds everything together until the last bite. I serve wedges as dinner or appetizers, depending on the mood.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil

Italian Dressing

Leafy salads wake up when tossed in this Italian Dressing, with a blend of spices and a little zing in every drop. Poured over greens, pasta, or even roasted veggies, it keeps food tasting light. The dressing also works as a marinade. I usually prep a double batch to have on hand all week.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork. — Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Dinner feels a bit more special with the gentle sweetness of this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Fluffy inside and golden outside, the bites play well with both creamy and tangy sauces. They’re quick to cook and easy to enjoy. I freeze what’s left for rainy day dinners.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Pizza Sauce

Homemade pizza starts with this Pizza Sauce, which packs each pie with bold tomato flavor. You can use it as a dip, a sandwich spread, or a base for creative meals. The recipe makes enough to cover several pizza nights. I keep extra in jars in my fridge for when a craving hits.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Matcha Tiramisu

A close-up of a slice of tiramisu topped with green matcha powder, served on a ceramic plate. — Matcha Tiramisu. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Classic dessert tries on something new with this Matcha Tiramisu, offering layers of creamy and green. The flavor is bold but not overpowering, with a gentle sweetness that lingers after each bite. Friends are surprised by how much they like it. I make it ahead for parties since it sets perfectly in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Tuscan Pasta

Creamy sauce and hearty noodles combine in this Tuscan Pasta, which fits perfectly with a chilly night. Packed with bold flavors, the dish keeps you full without weighing you down. You can change the veggies each time so it always feels new. I reach for this recipe when life gets busy and dinner needs to come together fast.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Buttery Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic. — Buttery Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

All meals improve with a side of Buttery Garlic Bread, fresh from the oven. The soft crumb inside and golden, crisp crust soak up sauces well. Families and guests scoop up the slices in seconds. I wrap leftovers in foil so they stay warm and ready for later.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Garlic Bread

Margherita Pizza

Inspired by the classics, this Margherita Pizza keeps things simple with bubbling cheese and basil on a thin, chewy base. Each bite feels light yet brings a full hit of comfort. This pizza fits dinner, snacks, or even a special lunch. I often drizzle olive oil on top for flavor.
Get the Recipe: Margherita Pizza

Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese. — Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Need something refreshing for dinner? This Lemon Pasta brightens up the table with tangy sauce and smooth noodles that slip right onto your fork. The aroma is cheerful and uplifting. I sprinkle on fresh herbs for even more color.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pasta

Garden Veggie Pizza

Someone taking a slice of veggie pizza. — Garden Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chopped vegetables shine under golden cheese on this Garden Veggie Pizza, filling each slice with both crunch and warmth. It’s perfect when you need a lighter meal but still want comfort. The crust stays crisp and holds up to all the toppings. I let everyone pick their favorites, so every pizza feels unique.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Pizza

Cacio e Pepe

Pasta, black pepper, and a shower of cheese create the magic in this Cacio e Pepe. Ready in minutes and bursting with pure flavor, it fits all sorts of occasions, chilled nights or busy schedules alike. Its simplicity hides a deep, satisfying bite. I whip up an extra portion since it vanishes quickly every time.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe