51 Italian Recipes for When You Want Food That Feels Settled

Dinner plans get simpler once you bring 51 Italian recipes into the mix. Most folks appreciate meals that taste familiar and make the house feel a little more grounded. Picking from time-tested recipes helps everyone relax, especially after a long day. Even busy schedules seem softer with a comforting meal like this on the table.

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.

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.

Every spoonful of this Chunky Minestrone Soup brings bright vegetables and cozy beans to your bowl. A simmering pot on a cold night welcomes friends with familiar comfort. I use it to fill the kitchen with warmth and conversation. Guests always ask how vegetables can turn into something so heartening.
Get the Recipe: Chunky Minestrone Soup

Garlic Aioli

Smooth, bold flavors shine in every scoop of this Garlic Aioli, making meals feel richer than ever. Spread it on sandwiches or use it for dipping, and simple dinners get a tasty upgrade. I offer it for snacks or big gatherings alike. Comments circle back to that irresistible garlic aroma.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Tortilla Pizza

Crispy rounds hold cheese and sauce with this Tortilla Pizza, turning snack time into an easy treat. The crust bakes up fast and keeps things mess-free. I pop these in the oven for quick lunches. Kids and adults both reach for more before the tray is gone.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla 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, cheesy noodles bring this Cacio e Pepe a classic charm, perfect for busy nights. Peppery goodness clings to every bite, making a plain plate something exciting. I pick this recipe when nothing else seems to fit. Plates empty quickly, and leftovers are rare.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

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.

Sweet layers in these Tiramisu cookies capture all the flavor of a coffee-house dessert in handheld form. Each bite gives a gentle pick-me-up with a creamy finish. I pack these up for sharing during festive occasions. Most people ask for seconds before dessert is finished.
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.

Creamy rice and earthy mushrooms make this Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto taste restaurant-worthy at home. The gentle aroma fills the air as you stir. I cook it on special nights when comfort is needed. Reviews always focus on the rich, filling texture.
Get the Recipe: Restaurant-Style Mushroom Risotto

Hearty Tortellini Soup

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

Filling dumplings swim in every bowl of this Hearty Tortellini Soup, bringing both warmth and smiles around the table. The color alone invites everyone for a first taste. I bring out this soup for parties that need something more comforting. It tends to become the talk of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Tortellini Soup

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.

Rich, simmered tomatoes help this Marinara Sauce make even plain pasta feel special. Pour over noodles or use as a dip for breadsticks, bringing classic flavor home. I keep a jar handy for last-minute dinners. People often ask for the secret to its homemade taste.
Get the Recipe: Marinara Sauce

Caprese Pizza

Fresh tomatoes and basil pop on this Caprese Pizza, making every slice lively and cool. Gooey cheese glues the flavor together for easy sharing. I make it when summer cravings arrive early. Everyone raves about the light crunch and bright finish.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pizza

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.

Earthy mushrooms transform this Morel Mushroom Pasta into something memorable with every forkful. The sauce hugs noodles gently, drawing in those eager for new flavors. I serve it during harvest season for something unique. Compliments always touch on the woodland scent.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Fresh Basil Pesto

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

Green and zippy, this Fresh Basil Pesto wakes up plain noodles or sandwiches. Each batch starts cheerful conversation as the bowl empties quickly. I blend extra to store for future snacks. People always mention how homemade pesto stands apart from the store version.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Basil Pesto

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.

Crunchy and sweet, these Cannoli Cookies put a new spin on the classic pastry. The filling surprises with each bite, making kids as happy as adults. I share them for holiday platters or friendly exchanges. Requests for the recipe come in fast.
Get the Recipe: Cannoli Cookies

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.

Colorful veggies spill across this Fresh Pasta Primavera, bringing garden flavor to your dinner table. Light noodles pair well with the cheerful mix. I use it to wake up winter meals. Everyone loves how bright and quick this dish turns out.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Pasta Primavera

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.

Rapid preparation meets big flavor in this Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes, keeping appetizers lively at every gathering. Juicy tomatoes and creamy cheese fill plates fast. I rely on this salad during busy evenings. Guests always say its freshness boosts their meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad in Minutes

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.

Green layers and sweet cream highlight every bite of this Matcha Tiramisu, making dessert tables stand out. Soft texture paired with a touch of tea flavor surprises first-timers. I keep it ready for special celebrations. People linger over their forks, asking what makes it taste unique.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

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.

Golden filling spills out from this Butternut Squash Ravioli, giving pasta night a touch of fall sweetness. Creamy bites satisfy both kids and grown-ups. I roll extra batches for later dinners. Plates clear quickly—requests for repeats are common.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash 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.

Pillowy crust and a crisp bite guarantee that this Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time sets the stage for amazing homemade pizza. Results appear reliable in every batch. I use this for large pizza parties indoors. Compliments always highlight how easy dough can lift a meal.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough That Works Every Time

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.

Creamy rice and golden squash melt together in this Butternut Squash Risotto, giving dinner a rich, warm glow. Gentle sweetness fits chilly evenings. I serve bowls for comfort during cozy gatherings. It usually leads to requests for extra helpings.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

Tuscan Pasta

Rustic charm shines in bowls of this Tuscan Pasta, where old-world flavors feel new at the table. Each serving brings a balance of fresh and hearty. I reach for this recipe to feed my hungriest guests. Smiles grow as the aroma spreads.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

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.

Woodsy aromas fill the kitchen through this Mushroom Pizza, making each bite robust and savory. Melty cheese binds the toppings firmly. I rely on it as a veggie dinner favorite. Plates rarely have leftovers after everyone tries a slice.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

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.

Cool scoops of this Tiramisu Ice Cream keep dessert time interesting, blending creamy layers with coffee and cocoa. The texture is soft and rich, just like classic tiramisu. I pair it with holiday cakes for extra cheer. Conversations often begin over a single spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Ice Cream

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.

Soft, orange bites of this Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi bring novelty to pasta night. Plates fill up quickly with dumplings that feel both familiar and unexpected. I cook this for friends who want plant-forward comfort. Requests for the recipe always follow soon after dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Pizza Bagels

Portable and fun, these Pizza Bagels load up hot cheese and sauce onto your favorite snack-sized bread. Baking them makes the whole home smell inviting. I serve them as an after-school treat. Crowds disappear them in no time.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

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.

Steaming trays of this Buttery Garlic Bread spread a savory aroma across the kitchen and warm up any meal. Crunchy slices disappear eagerly as hands reach out. I bake it to go with pasta and soups. Compliments land on every slice.
Get the Recipe: Buttery Garlic Bread

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

Creamy filling and gentle greens give this Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna its place in the comfort food hall of fame. Each piece feels silky and rich. I find the leftovers work for days after the party. There’s never an argument about what’s for lunch.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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.

Lively colors and sweet glaze set this Fruit Pizza apart as a dessert centerpiece. Bites deliver juicy fruits and creamy frosting that lift spirits. I design creative rounds for party tables. No one ever skips dessert when this is served.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Italian Dressing

Tangy flavor and fresh herbs make this Italian Dressing a staple for salads or marinating vegetables. Bright vinaigrette wakes up even the plainest greens. I whip up batches for busy days. Guests come in asking what makes the salads so tasty.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

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 and oil swirl across noodles in this Aglio e Olio, keeping every plate simple yet memorable. Quick cook times suit rushed meals. I grab it for lazy evenings. People can’t resist seconds, no matter how tired they are.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Thin crust and three kinds of flavor turn this Neapolitan Pizza into a slice of Italy right at home. Bright sauce, soft cheese, and crisp edges get attention first. I lean on this recipe for special family dinners. Comments land on the amazing crust every time.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Caprese Appetizer Bites

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

Mini skewers in these Caprese Appetizer Bites keep finger food festive with tomatoes, cheese, and basil. The bites vanish from platters at gatherings. I pull these together for quick snacks at any party. Kids and adults both search the table for more.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer Bites

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.

Colorful chunks tumble across noodles in this Vegetable Pasta, making dinner healthy yet fun. Each bite delivers snap and crunch. I combine favorite veggies for a new mix every week. Empty bowls appear fast when hungry guests arrive.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Pasta

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.

Quick, crisp crust and gooey cheese help this French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights make dinnertime effortless. No one wants to fuss with complicated steps on a busy evening. I reach for it when time runs short. Comments always mention how fun “pizza night” can be.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza for Busy Nights

Neapolitan Ice Cream

Three classic flavors scoop up memories in this Neapolitan Ice Cream, where old-fashioned desserts win over every table. Strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla blend smoothly together for easy smiles. I keep cartons handy for surprise guests. Frozen treats spark curiosity.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

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.

Soft noodles smothered in creamy sauce make this Mac and Cheese easy comfort whenever you crave a simple dinner. The golden top adds a gentle crunch. I prep big portions for cold days. Bowls always empty with big grins around the table.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Pizza Sauce

Bright red and rich, this Pizza Sauce helps crusts come alive as a base for every homemade pizza party. Spread generously for more flavor in every bite. I jar extra for later use. Homemade sauce can shift a meal from bland to special.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

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: .

Bold heat from this Fiery Arrabiata Sauce kicks plain noodles into high gear with every spoonful. Tomatoes blend with spicy goodness for drama at dinner. I serve it to guests looking for something new. Requests for water often mean you’ve hit the right level of spice.
Get the Recipe: Fiery Arrabiata Sauce

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.

Roasted eggplant gives this Pasta alla Norma a smoky flavor, setting it apart as a weeknight hero. Tomato sauce clings tight and brightens each bite. I prep it ahead of time for stress-free meals. Empty plates prove its popularity.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil

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

Sliced tomatoes and aromatic greens lighten up this Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil, giving slices a garden-fresh crunch. Baked cheese melds every layer. I cook it for late-summer evenings. People say it reminds them of outdoor feasts.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Pizza With Fresh Basil

Garlic Knots

Rope-like rolls glisten with flavor in these Garlic Knots, perfect for parties or simple dinners. Soft centers balance the garlicky bite. I serve them with dips or soup. Grins grow big with every tray.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Mushroom Pasta

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

Earthy mushrooms and silky noodles star in this Mushroom Pasta, bringing extra comfort to cool nights. The sauce is creamy enough to feel special. I dish it up quickly on busy evenings. Most finish their plates before asking what’s inside.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Pizza Salad

Crisp greens and pizza toppings blend in this Pizza Salad, giving dinners an unexpected twist. Each forkful mixes flavors just right. I spotlight this when pizza is popular, but greens are needed. Plates show off the playful mix and spark smiles all around.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Spaghetti Marinara

Twirls of noodles draped in rich sauce make this Spaghetti Marinara a go-to for quick, cozy dinners. Every plate shines with tomato flavor. I offer it with plenty of bread. No pasta dish is more classic or comforting.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Gnocchi

Soft dumplings formed in this Gnocchi keep winter meals memorable and filling every time. The chew feels just right with creamy or herbal sauces. I add them for heartier nights. More than a few guests ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Margherita Pizza

Red, white, and green fill out this Margherita Pizza for a slice that tastes as cheerful as it looks. Simple toppings keep flavors bold and fresh. I enjoy baking this for casual gatherings. Each slice commands attention until the plate is clean.
Get the Recipe: Margherita Pizza

Lemon Pasta

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

Bright bowls of this Lemon Pasta chase away heavy dinner blues with zippy flavors. The citrus finish lifts every forkful. I use it to freshen up usual pasta routines. Conversations start about how lively it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Pasta

Garden Veggie Pizza

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

Rainbow vegetables scatter across this Garden Veggie Pizza, making dinner feel light without sacrificing comfort. Each bite brings a little crunch. I serve it with a simple salad for balance. Every tray empties before the night’s end.
Get the Recipe: Garden Veggie Pizza

Cheese Ravioli

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

Pillows stuffed with creamy cheese give this Cheese Ravioli standout flavor, especially with tangy sauces. Each plate brings smiles across the table. I freeze extras for future nights. Friends tend to ask first if I made “those ravioli again.”
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

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.

Flaky crusts cradle bright layers in these Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts, turning appetizers into conversation starters. Cheese melts into the tomatoes for a finishing touch. I prep them for low-key gatherings. They’re guaranteed to vanish before dinner starts.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

Creamy cheese melts through noodles in this Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta, turning basic dinners into a trending treat. Batches finish quickly with minimal effort. I set it out for hungry crowds. Most plates are scraped clean by the end.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

Artichoke Pizza

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

Tangy artichokes star on this Artichoke Pizza, giving slices a unique flavor that stands up to any meal. Hot cheese holds every topping firm. I make it for plant-forward meals and parties. It’s always one of the first pizzas to go.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Mushroom Bolognese

Savory sauce covers noodles in this Mushroom Bolognese, turning weeknight dinners into memorable events. Strong flavor and hearty texture fill up guests. I use it for meatless nights when comfort is key. Empty bowls echo approval.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Bolognese