Looking to try some Italian cooking? Here are 18 great recipes straight from Italy. They include everything from smooth pastas to tasty pizzas. These dishes will help you enjoy Italy’s finest flavors right in your kitchen. They're perfect for anyone who loves food and wants to bring a little bit of Italy home.
An Italian classic that never goes out of style: Spaghetti and Meatballs! Twirl your fork around perfectly cooked spaghetti topped with juicy, homemade meatballs, and marinara sauce. This iconic dish is the epitome of Italian comfort food.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta marries the fiery kick of buffalo sauce with succulent chicken and tender pasta. Topped with blue cheese or ranch, it's a spicy treat for those who love a good burn. This dish turns an appetizer favorite into a satisfying main course.
This trendy dish involves baking feta cheese and cherry tomatoes to create a creamy, tangy sauce. It's then tossed with your choice of pasta, creating a simple yet utterly delicious meal. Fresh basil and a sprinkle of chili flakes complete this culinary masterpiece.
Get ready to be stuffed with happiness! Stuffed Shells are jumbo pasta shells filled with a heavenly mixture of ricotta cheese, herbs, and spices. Topped with marinara sauce and baked to perfection, these little pockets of joy are an Italian dinner party must-have.
Chicken Alfredo is a luxurious pasta dish, with tender pieces of chicken swathed in a rich and creamy Alfredo sauce. Often served over fettuccine, it's a timeless Italian-American classic that's perfect for a romantic dinner or a comforting family meal.
Rattlesnake Pasta offers a zesty twist to your typical pasta dish. Infused with peppers and creamy sauce, it's a spicy yet savory meal that'll tantalize your taste buds. Named for its bite, not its ingredients, this dish is a must-try for those seeking a culinary adventure.
A true Mediterranean delight, eggplant pasta features sautéed eggplant, tossed with your favorite pasta, and bathed in a flavorful tomato sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a touch of fresh basil or parsley lend an additional layer of flavor to this nutritious, vegetarian dish.
Creamy, comforting, and nutritious, Chicken and Broccoli Alfredo combines tender chicken, fresh broccoli, and a silky Alfredo sauce. This dish strikes a perfect balance between indulgence and health, offering a wholesome option that doesn't sacrifice flavor.
Satisfy your cravings with this Buffalo Chicken Pizza. The spicy buffalo sauce brings a lively kick to juicy chicken, all atop a golden crust. Balanced with smooth mozzarella and sprinkled with a touch of blue cheese, this pizza delivers a harmonious blend of heat and creaminess that will keep you coming back for more.
Ah, the classic comfort food! Mac and Cheese isn't just for kids anymore; this gooey, cheesy delight is perfect for everyone. This Italian-American fusion is pasta smothered in a creamy cheese sauce that'll make you feel like you're getting a warm hug from Nonna. Trust us, you'll be saying "Mamma Mia!" with every bite.
Pasta Fagioli is the ultimate Italian comfort food. This hearty, flavorful soup is loaded with pasta, beans, veggies, and Italian sausage. It's like a big, warm hug in a bowl, perfect for those chilly nights or when you need a little pick-me-up. One taste, and you'll be transported straight to the Italian countryside!
This vibrant pasta dish combines rich marinara sauce with a hint of cream, giving it a delightful pink hue. With a touch of garlic, and garnished with fresh basil, Pink Pasta delivers a symphony of flavors that is both comforting and exciting for any pasta lover.
A perfect fusion of your favorite wing night with pizza night, Buffalo Chicken Pizza features spicy, tangy buffalo chicken, cool creamy ranch or blue cheese, and mozzarella. Finished with a scattering of green onions, it's a tantalizing dish that's packed with flavor and a favorite among spice lovers.
This dish is the epitome of comfort food. Al dente rigatoni pasta is mixed with a robust meat sauce, smothered in creamy béchamel, then sprinkled with cheese and baked until bubbly and golden. Each bite of Baked Rigatoni is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, promising a satisfying meal.
Pizza Bagels are the adorable lovechild of two of our favorite things: pizza and bagels! These mini-sized treats are perfect for when you can't decide between Italian and New York cuisine. Top these versatile little bagels with marinara sauce, mozzarella, and your favorite toppings, and you've got yourself a tasty snack.
What happens when pizza and pasta have a baby? You get Pizza Pasta, of course! This scrumptious dish is everything you love about pizza, but in pasta form. Cooked pasta is mixed with marinara sauce, cheese, and your favorite pizza toppings before being baked to gooey perfection. It's like a pizza party in your mouth!
When Italy meets Mexico, you get the irresistible Taco Pasta! This zesty dish combines the best of both worlds: pasta and taco seasoning. With ground beef, tomatoes, and a sprinkle of cheese, you'll be dancing the salsa with every flavorful forkful. Olé!
Baked Ziti is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. This comforting dish is made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, and a glorious mix of cheeses. Baked to bubbly perfection, it's the go-to choice for family dinners, potlucks, and any occasion that calls for a hearty meal.
Take your lasagna game to the next level with Smoked Lasagna! This smoky twist on the classic Italian dish is cooked in a smoker for a unique, mouth-watering flavor. Layers of pasta, meat sauce, and cheese never tasted so good. Prepare to be amazed!
Embark on a culinary journey to Tuscany with Tuscan Chicken Pasta! This creamy, dreamy dish is loaded with tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and spinach, all tossed with pasta in a velvety garlic cream sauce. It's a true taste of the Italian countryside.
Sink your teeth into the mouth-watering Italian Beef! This slow-cooked, tender beef is seasoned with Italian herbs and spices before being served in a crusty roll, dripping with delicious juices. It's a sandwich that'll transport you straight to the streets of Italy.