49 Italian Recipes for When You Want Dinner to Feel Done Right

Anyone searching for fresh inspiration will appreciate having 49 Italian recipes to choose from for dinner. Pulling together a meal doesn’t have to mean starting from scratch each time, especially on busy nights. The variety in this collection makes it easy to find something you haven’t tried before.

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.

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.

Wild, earthy mushrooms take center stage in this Morel Mushroom Pasta, giving each forkful a rich, woodsy character. The creamy sauce wraps around every bite, offering comfort for any cool night. I stash extras in the fridge for special leftovers. Mushrooms truly shine when mixed with warm noodles.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Garden Veggie Pizza

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

Bright colors and a light crunch make this Garden Veggie Pizza a refreshing break from heavy dinners. Every slice bursts with the flavors of fresh produce and tangy sauce. I bake several at once since slices disappear fast around friends. Pizza night doesn’t always mean loaded cheese and meat.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Pizza

Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

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

Creamy risotto dotted with mushrooms feels downright relaxing at the end of a busy day. This Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto brings restaurant comfort right to your kitchen table. I find myself scooping out extra to enjoy those cozy, savory flavors again. Risotto is never as tricky as folks make it sound.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

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.

Pillowy dumplings with a hint of sweetness star in this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi. The dish feels hearty and special, perfect when a cold snap rolls in and you want to try something new. I portion out leftovers for quick future meals. Pasta night is just more fun with homemade gnocchi in the mix.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato 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.

A simmering pot of this Marinara Sauce smells like home and tastes even better than what you find at most restaurants. Pour it over pasta, use it for dipping, or layer it in casseroles. I freeze leftovers to keep lunch and dinner options wide open. Homemade sauce brings extra comfort to the table every time.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Sauce

Neapolitan Ice Cream

Old-school flavors play together in this Neapolitan Ice Cream, adding a playful finish to any Italian dinner. Scoops of chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry offer something for everyone. I always end up reaching for just one more spoonful. Simple, classic desserts are sometimes all you need.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

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.

Hearty eggplant and tangy sauce work together in this Pasta alla Norma for a meal that’s as warming as it is colorful. Each mouthful brings a balance of tomato and subtle heat. I love making this dish to break up a winter week with something Mediterranean. Unfussy pasta shines brighter with classic veggie toppings.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Tortilla Pizza

Thin, crisp crusts with bubbling cheese make this Tortilla Pizza perfect for a quick Italian-inspired dinner. You can switch up toppings for fresh flavors every time. I bake several at once so everyone can pick their favorites. Speedy pizzas are a lifesaver during busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Gnocchi

Each bite of this Gnocchi melts away thanks to the dumplings’ soft texture and comforting vibe. Tossed in your favorite sauce, gnocchi is a comfort food that doesn’t leave you heavy. I keep extra dough in the freezer for easy pasta nights. Handmade dumplings might just outshine anything in a box.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Whisper-thin crust, simple sauce, and a smattering of cheese turn this Neapolitan Pizza into pure Italian comfort. Every slice feels authentic enough to take you to Naples by dinnertime. I bake extra rounds for everyone to enjoy hot and fresh. Pizza night just gets better with this old-world recipe.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Hearty Tortellini Soup

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

Warm broth and stuffed pasta make this Hearty Tortellini Soup perfect for cold evenings. Every spoonful feels cozy while giving you something substantial to chew. I ladle out seconds since nobody wants their bowl empty. Italian soups like this bring a little sunshine to winter.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Tortellini Soup

Caprese Pizza

Juicy tomato slices and fresh basil set this Caprese Pizza apart from regular pizza. Melty cheese ties it all together in a way that looks as good as it tastes. I reach for this recipe when I want to share something light but full of flavor. Classic combos never grow old, especially on homemade dough.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pizza

Butternut Squash Ravioli

A plate of ravioli topped with creamy sauce, grated cheese, and fresh herbs, served with a fork. — Butternut Squash Ravioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy squash tucked inside tender pasta makes this Butternut Squash Ravioli stand out at the dinner table. Silky sauce finishes each forkful, giving just the right blend of sweet and savory. I freeze leftovers so there is always a treat for later in the week. Homemade ravioli has surprising winter charm.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Ravioli

Garlic Aioli

Rich, garlicky flavor spreads across anything you dip into this Garlic Aioli. It’s the finishing touch for sandwiches, fries, or roasted veggies. I keep a jar on hand for anything that could use a little boost. This sauce instantly turns staples into something special.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Penne Alla Vodka

Creamy vodka sauce finds its match with this Penne Alla Vodka recipe, giving pasta a luxury upgrade. That pink sauce brings out new excitement for winter dinners. I love serving it at gatherings since everyone finds something to rave about. Little effort, big restaurant-style results in this one-pot meal.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil

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

Sweet sauce, fragrant basil, and chewy dough all meet in this Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil. Each slice feels simple but delivers a real punch of flavor. I layer the toppings right before baking for even more freshness. Sometimes, less really is more on pizza night.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil

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.

Creamy, cheesy noodles land front and center with this Mac and Cheese. Every bite brings a hug on cold nights, no matter your age or appetite. I cook a little extra for late-night snacks since it reheats perfectly. Comfort food favorites never need a fancy twist to win over a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Warm, golden slices of this Buttery Garlic Bread disappear the minute they hit the table. Crunch on the outside, soft in the middle, each piece soaks up all your extra sauce. I toast leftovers for breakfast the next day. Bread this fresh makes winter dinners worth looking forward to.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Garlic Bread

Margherita Pizza

Bright tomato and milky mozzarella create that “just right” balance in this Margherita Pizza. Clean flavors guarantee every slice goes quickly. I often make two at once to keep up with hungry hands. Pizza, the Italian way, really doesn’t get any better.
Get the Recipe: Margherita Pizza

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.

Savory, plant-forward sauce sets this Mushroom Bolognese apart from classic versions. Rich base offers layers of flavor that cling to noodles. I serve generous helpings so no one leaves the table with room to spare. Winter pastas are next-level with a recipe like this one.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese

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.

A crispy base and your favorite toppings combine in this French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights to create grab-and-go slices. Making dinner is a breeze with this shortcut recipe. I make it often on nights when the clock works against me. Pizza in a flash means nobody goes hungry.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights

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.

Tomato, basil, and silky pesto fill each bite in these Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts. Flaky pastry brings the contrast that makes appetizers so fun to eat. I enjoy baking these for small gatherings and serving while still warm. Savory treats brighten the spread at any Italian evening.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts

Mushroom Pasta

Close-up of fusilli pasta with mushrooms, garnished with rosemary and black pepper. — Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich mushroom flavor coats every piece of this Mushroom Pasta, giving each bite depth and hearty comfort. Creamy sauce completes the dish for a dinner that truly fills you up. I love packing leftovers for quick winter lunches. Sometimes mushrooms run the show and everybody wins.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

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.

Sweet cream and ripe fruit slices land atop soft dough for this Fruit Pizza. Every wedge is colorful and refreshing, perfect for finishing a cozy Italian meal. I cut small squares for easy sharing at gatherings. Dessert pizza always gets the conversation started.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Spaghetti Marinara

Tangy, slow-simmered sauce hugs every strand in this Spaghetti Marinara, turning a simple meal into a celebration. Familiar flavors feel especially good when it’s freezing outside. I ladle big helpings for hungry friends or fast lunches. A classic dish truly earns its spot on any Italian lineup.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Pizza Sauce

Bold, herby flavor stands out in this Pizza Sauce, the backbone of countless Italian favorites. Smooth and easy to spread, it makes homemade pizza impossible to resist. I mix up a large batch to freeze for later. Little touches like sauce from scratch make all the difference.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

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.

Golden rice with creamy, sweet squash brings comfort and color to your weeknight menu with this Butternut Squash Risotto. Stir it slowly for the best results and see how the flavors build. I save leftovers since they reheat better than expected. Risotto night always brightens winter evenings.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

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.

Garlic warms the oil just enough to coat noodles in this Aglio e Olio. Crisp and quick, dinner comes together before you know it. I serve it with a touch of fresh parsley for color. Satisfying pasta doesn’t require many ingredients when it tastes this good.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

Pizza Bagels

Crunchy edges and melty cheese turn these Pizza Bagels into snack-size masterpieces. They cook up super fast and keep lunch or dinner playful for kids and adults alike. I layer toppings so everyone builds their own. Weeknights stay interesting with easy pizza options like this.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

Fresh Basil Pesto

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

Vivid green pesto kicks regular pasta up a notch in this Fresh Basil Pesto. You can swirl it into sandwiches or drizzle it over roasted veggies. I freeze small containers for last-minute meal upgrades. Sauce this bold never sits long in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Basil Pesto

Cheese Ravioli

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

Pillows of pasta filled with creamy cheese bring a little luxury to dinner thanks to this Cheese Ravioli. Biting through a soft shell to smooth filling provides serious comfort. I double the batch for meal prep. Store-bought never quite matches the flavor of homemade ravioli.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

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.

Soft, chewy crust comes standard with this Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time. Each batch rises light and bubbles beautifully in a hot oven. I rely on this recipe for every homemade pizza night. Reliable dough becomes the starting point for endless classic Italian combinations.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time

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: .

Tangy tomatoes and a spicy kick make this Fiery Arrabiata Sauce taste way bolder than your usual red sauce. Pasta never stays boring with this topping in your toolkit. I ladle it over penne or use it to simmer veggies. A little heat brings out even more flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Fiery Arrabiata 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.

Earthy matcha replaces coffee in this Matcha Tiramisu for an unexpected Italian-Japanese fusion dessert. Creamy layers taste unique and blend old with new. I serve square slices with an extra sprinkle on top. Bringing new ideas to dessert keeps things fresh and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Caprese Appetizer Bites

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

Tiny skewers loaded with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil give these Caprese Appetizer Bites plenty of flavor in every bite. They’re quick to assemble and always one of the first things cleared from the tray. I usually make a big batch since they go fast. Classic Italian-style snacks like this prove simple ingredients can still feel special.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer Bites

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.

Savory mushrooms and bubbling cheese come together in this Mushroom Pizza for a cozy take on homemade pizza night. The smell out of the oven basically calls everyone to dinner. I slice the pizza thick for extra heartiness on cold evenings. Anyone who likes mushrooms will want a second piece.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

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.

Creamy filling meets crunchy shells in these Cannoli Cookies, putting all the best parts of a cannoli in a bite-sized treat. Powdered sugar on top gives them a festive look fit for any Italian night. I include them in cookie boxes for something different. Classics get new life with this fun twist.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

Layers of silky cheese and leafy greens make this Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna stand out for winter dinners. There’s something extra cozy about noodles snuggled under a bubbling crust. I portion out squares for quick, comforting lunches. Lasagna always brings people back for another bite.
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.

Coffee and cocoa swirl through soft cookies in this Tiramisu Cookies recipe, offering a twist on the iconic dessert. The flavors melt together for a perfect after-dinner treat. I keep extra in a tin for coffee breaks or sharing. Tiramisu gets portable in cookie form for on-the-go snacking.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu cookies

Lemon Pasta

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

Lively citrus brightens every bite in this Lemon Pasta. The creamy sauce manages to taste both refreshing and comforting in a way that works for any season. I reach for this dish when winter needs a bit of zing. Weeknight dinners get happier when lemons show up.
Get the Recipe: Lemon 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.

Creamy scoops of this Tiramisu Ice Cream layer coffee and mascarpone for a frozen spin on a famous dessert. Swirls of chocolate and crunchy bits give it extra dimension. I serve it straight from the freezer for easy dessert wins. Italian sweets don’t always have to be traditional.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Ice Cream

Garlic Knots

Each piece of this Garlic Knots recipe comes out golden and soft, perfect for swiping up leftover sauce. They barely last a minute on the dinner table once everyone grabs one. I sprinkle a little parsley or cheese for an easy upgrade. Warm bread with garlic never fails to comfort.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Tuscan Pasta

Creamy sauce packed with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach surrounds every noodle in this Tuscan Pasta. No one has to feel bored with dinner when the recipe is this lively and colorful. I double the amounts to pack lunches for later. Pasta dinners never get old with hints of Italy in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Artichoke Pizza

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

Nutty, tender artichokes and melted cheese shine in this Artichoke Pizza. The toppings get golden and bubbling in the oven for a picture-worthy pie. I serve it with a side salad to cut through the richness. Unusual toppings mean pizza gets a fresh spin every time you bake.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Cacio e Pepe

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

Simple, peppery cheese sauce brings comfort to every twirl in this Cacio e Pepe. It’s proof that classic Italian cooking doesn’t need many ingredients to taste excellent. I whip up this dish for quick yet crave-worthy dinners. Pasta is so good, folks always want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

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.

Juicy slices and bright basil come together in this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes. It’s a time-saving option for those days you need something light, quick, and healthy. I drizzle a little olive oil over everything for extra flavor. Fresh salads pair perfectly with any Italian meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

Fresh Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl. — Fresh Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bright veggies and tender noodles set this Fresh Pasta Primavera apart as a refreshing option during winter. Pops of color and crunch fill every bowl. I like saving extra portions and using them for a cold pasta salad the next day. A mix of seasonal produce keeps meals interesting and satisfying without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pasta Primavera

Italian Dressing

Tangy, herby flavors turn regular greens into something special with this Italian Dressing. Every salad feels fresher and brighter after a quick toss. I keep some in the fridge for easy lunches and speedy dinners. Homemade dressing is the secret to better salads.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Creamy Boursin melts straight into this Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta for a viral hit. Bursting tomatoes and swirly noodles finish off dinner in a way that’s both rich and filling. I try new cheeses for fun spins on the recipe. Online trends meet classic comfort in this pasta.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta