My Favorite Way To Simplify Dinner? These 29 Italian Recipes

If dinner keeps starting with “what do we even make,” this solves that in one scroll. These 29 Italian recipes don’t ask much and still get the job done every time. You’ll be out of the kitchen before anyone starts asking for snacks they already had. Even picky eaters stop complaining halfway through and ask for seconds.

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

Neapolitan Ice Cream

Two scoops of Neapolitan ice cream in a glass dish, featuring chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors, served with two rolled wafer cookies.
Neapolitan Ice Cream. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Looking for a sweet treat? Neapolitan Ice Cream is the perfect option. It’s simple but fulfilling, offering three classic flavors in every scoop. This dessert always hits the mark when you want something quick and delicious, with the right balance of sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

Best Lemon Pasta

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

There’s no beating the simplicity of Best Lemon Pasta when you need a quick dinner. The combination of creamy and tangy makes it an easy favorite. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel good without a ton of effort, and you’ll find yourself craving it again. Simple, quick, and totally fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

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.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing beats Garlic Bread when you want a side that complements almost anything. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. This dish is perfect for adding some flavor to any meal, without taking much time. Whether with pasta or a salad, it’s always a great choice.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Caprese Appetizer

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

Caprese Appetizer brings freshness to the table in a simple, satisfying way. It’s a light yet delicious starter that you can whip up in no time. Perfect for when you want something refreshing without all the fuss. It’s got everything you need in one bite, making it a hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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.

When comfort food is a must, Mac and Cheese is the way to go. This dish is rich, creamy, and always a crowd-pleaser. It’s easy to make and even easier to love, no matter the occasion. Whether for dinner or a quick snack, it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Artichoke Pizza

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

Artichoke Pizza is a unique twist on your regular pizza. It’s a great option when you’re looking for something a bit different but still fulfilling. Quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal. You won’t regret adding this one to your dinner list; it’s a fun change of pace.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Caprese Pesto Tarts

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

When you’re craving something bite-sized but full of flavor, Caprese Pesto Tarts are a great choice. These little treats are packed with fresh ingredients. Perfect for snacking or as an appetizer for guests, they’re easy to make and look impressive. Tasty and fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

For a simple yet fulfilling meal, Cacio e Pepe is hard to beat. The creamy cheese and pepper combine in a way that’s both comforting and delicious. You don’t need a lot of ingredients for this dish, but the result is always impressive. It’s a go-to when you want something quick and filling.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Easy Caprese Salad

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

Want something light but full of freshness? Easy Caprese Salad brings together simple ingredients in a refreshing way. It’s perfect as a side dish or even a light meal when you’re short on time. Quick and easy to prepare, this salad always delivers a burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Minestrone Soup

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

Minestrone Soup is the kind of dish that’s easy to make and always fulfilling. Packed with veggies and broth, it’s filling without being heavy. It’s the kind of meal that’s both comforting and light, perfect for any day of the week. Great for those days when you need something wholesome and quick.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

French Bread Pizza

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

If you’re looking for a simple, fast meal, French Bread Pizza is a winner. It’s easy to prepare, and everyone can customize their toppings. This pizza offers a crispy base with all the fun of a traditional pizza. It’s casual but always tasty, and it’s ready in no time.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a fulfillingyet simple dish, Gnocchi is the perfect choice. These little dumplings are soft, light, and incredibly comforting. With a variety of ways to serve it, you can make it your own. Whether with a simple sauce or something more complex, it’s a meal that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

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.

Want to satisfy your sweet tooth without making a complicated dessert? Fruit Pizza hits the spot. It’s a fun, fresh option that looks as good as it tastes. Great for any occasion when you want something quick and easy to put together, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Fruit 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.

When you need something with a bit more depth, Morel Mushroom Pasta is a great pick. This dish combines rich flavors in a simple format. Perfect for a night when you want to feel like you’ve made something special without a lot of work. It’s an elegant option that doesn’t take forever to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a flavorful dip or spread, Garlic Aioli is an easy go-to. This creamy, garlicky sauce adds the perfect touch to so many meals. Whether for dipping or as a topping, it’s a great way to enhance any dish. Quick to make and always a hit when added to your favorite meals.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Veggie Pizza

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

If you’re craving something simple but tasty, Veggie Pizza is the answer. This dish covers all the bases with fresh ingredients and a quick prep time. It’s an easy way to feed a crowd. Everyone can enjoy this classic, no matter their taste.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Mushroom Pasta

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

A comforting choice for any pasta lover, Mushroom Pasta offers a hearty meal in minutes. It’s perfect when you want something filling without a lot of fuss. The combination of textures makes it a go-to on busy nights. If you need something that comes together quickly, this one’s a winner.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Ooni Pizza Dough

Someone sprinkling flour over pizza dough.
Ooni Pizza Dough. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ready to make pizza at home? Ooni Pizza Dough simplifies the process with an easy-to-handle dough that bakes beautifully. It’s perfect for creating a crispy base without hours of prep. Whether you’re a pro or a beginner, this dough makes pizza night effortless.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Mushroom Risotto

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

For a rich, creamy dinner, Mushroom Risotto is the way to go. It’s a fulfilling dish that doesn’t require complex techniques. The creamy texture pairs well with the earthy mushrooms. This risotto is a meal on its own or a great side to a main.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving pizza but looking for something lighter? Pizza Salad hits the spot. It’s a fun way to enjoy the flavors of pizza without the crust. This dish can be thrown together fast and still taste amazing. Perfect for when you want pizza but in a salad form.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Italian Dressing

A jar with Italian dressing with it and a teaspoon resting in it.
Italian Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

No meal is complete without a good dressing, and Italian Dressing is a classic for a reason. It’s quick to make and adds the right amount of tang to any salad. This dressing is versatile and brings an extra kick to your greens. Add it to your salad, and you’ll be hooked.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Looking for a classic pizza with a twist? Neapolitan Pizza brings a bit of Italy to your kitchen. It’s simple yet elegant, with a thin, crispy crust and tasty toppings. The balance of texture and flavor makes it feel like a treat any night of the week. This pizza is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need a straightforward dinner, Spaghetti Marinara fits the bill. It’s simple to prepare and always comforting. The sauce brings all the right flavors together in a way that feels homemade. This pasta is perfect for busy nights when you just want something easy and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Pizza Bagels

Pizza bagels on parchment paper, one with a bite out of it and a jar of BBQ sauce nearby.
Pizza Bagels. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pizza Bagels are the perfect snack or meal when you’re in a hurry. They’re easy to make and perfect for anyone craving pizza but short on time. The combination of bagels and pizza toppings is a fun twist on a classic. These little bites are always a hit, whether you’re feeding kids or adults.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

Craving a hearty, comforting meal? Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is a great choice. Layers of cheese and spinach make this dish rich and filling, without the meat. It’s simple to prepare and makes enough to feed a crowd or save for later.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Tortilla Pizza

Four tortilla pizzas on a wooden cutting board.
Tortilla Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re looking for something quick, Tortilla Pizza is your go-to. It’s a fast way to enjoy pizza without needing dough or hours of prep. Simply top a tortilla, and you’ve got a crispy, fulfilling meal in no time. Perfect for a speedy dinner after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Garlic Knots are a simple side dish that takes your meal to the next level. They’re fluffy, garlicky, and perfect for dipping. They don’t take long to make, and they pair well with any Italian meal. These knots are easy to make but will leave everyone asking for more.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Tortellini Soup

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

This soup is a cozy meal that’s both filling and flavorful. The broth is light yet rich, and the tortellini add the perfect bite. It’s quick to make and ideal for any day of the week. Tortellini Soup can be a meal on its own or a great starter for a larger dinner.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

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.

A twist on the traditional, Mushroom Pizza brings a rich, earthy taste to the table. The mushrooms add depth without overwhelming the rest of the pizza. This is a great option if you want something familiar yet different. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

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