31 Italian Meals That Make Your Kitchen The Happiest Place At Home

Imagine walking into the kitchen and smelling fresh pasta, warm bread, and tomato sauce. Each dish brings joy, flavor, and comfort to every corner of the home. With 31 Italian meals to try, cooking becomes fun, exciting, and full of surprises. The kitchen turns into the happiest place with every bite full of love, tradition, and simple goodness.

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A comforting bowl of pure joy can be yours with this Spicy Lasagna Soup. Warm, rich flavors blend beautifully to bring an Italian classic to life in every spoonful. You won’t believe how simple it is to prepare. Perfect for dinner after a long day. Enjoy the ease and comfort of a well-loved meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Feel refreshed with a bright and tasty mix of all your favorite Italian goodies. Antipasto Salad brings together a colorful medley of flavors. Full of crunch and variety, it’s perfect for lunch or as a side. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up. Let every bite fill you with happiness.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A skillet with creamy chicken pasta featuring spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated cheese, stirred with a wooden spoon.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Feel the love with this creamy and dreamy Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Tender chicken meets orzo pasta in the most delicious way. Each bite is a blend of comfort and taste. Ideal for a cozy dinner that feels special. Cooking this brings pure happiness to the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Caprese Appetizer

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

Fresh, easy, and delicious, that’s what a Caprese Appetizer brings to your table. The simplest of ingredients turn into something magical together. Perfect as a starter for any meal. Bright flavors make it a favorite any day of the week. Get ready for an effortless treat.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked pasta topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Indulge in a comforting Marry Me Chicken Casserole that promises full flavor and warmth. Juicy chicken in a creamy sauce makes for a hearty meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This dish is all about bringing smiles to the table. Each bite is sure to make you feel at home.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Easy Caprese Salad

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

Light and refreshing, this Easy Caprese Salad is a go-to favorite. A beautiful combination of simple ingredients. It’s the perfect side or even a light meal on its own. Making it at home is a breeze. Enjoy the flavors of Italy in every bite. Whether for family dinners or special occasions, salad is always a winner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Experience mouthwatering comfort with a hearty Ravioli Casserole. Layered with rich flavors, it’s the perfect dish for a family dinner. Simple to make and deeply tasty. Your kitchen will smell irresistible. Every serving is pure contentment.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

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.

Spice up your dishes with a flavorful spread reminiscent of Italian kitchens. Whip up some Garlic Aioli for an extra kick. It’s perfect for dipping, spreading, or adding that special touch to sandwiches. Making it is refreshingly simple. Transform everyday meals with ease.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

End any meal on a sweet note with a classic Tiramisu. Layers of creamy goodness and coffee-soaked flavors come together perfectly. It’s a dessert that impresses every time. Elegant yet easy to prepare. Bring a bit of Italy to your table.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Three cooked chicken breasts in a creamy sauce, topped with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, presented in a round dish.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easily impress guests with a delectable Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. The slow cooker does all the work for you. Deliciously tender and robust in flavor. Ideal for busy days or relaxed weekends. Set it, forget it, and enjoy substantial comfort.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Artichoke Pizza

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

Picture a warm, crispy crust topped with artichokes that bring an extra special touch. Cooking up Artichoke Pizza can make your kitchen smell amazing and feel cozier. It’s a perfect excuse to gather everyone and share slices loaded with deliciousness. You’ll find each bite both hearty and fun, creating new pizza memories.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something comforting about twirling noodles around a fork. Spaghetti Marinara offers a burst of flavor with every mouthful, bringing the essence of Italian cuisine right to your table. The rich, homemade sauce melds perfectly with al dente pasta, creating an inviting dish.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Best Lemon Pasta

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

Fresh and tangy, Best Lemon Pasta gives a twist to your usual pasta night. The simplicity of it lets the flavors shine brightly, making dinner something to look forward to. It’s light yet delicious and can quickly become a go-to meal. Pairing it with a simple salad turns your kitchen into a cozy bistro.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Simplicity meets perfection with Neapolitan Pizza. Focus on fresh ingredients and a beautifully thin crust for a pizza that stands out. The high heat baking brings out the best in this classic Italian favorite. You’ll enjoy every bite of the crispy yet soft base topped with flavorful goodness. It’s an ideal way to treat yourself and others to a little piece of Italy.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of gooey cheese and robust sauce make Homemade Lasagna an eternal favorite. It’s one of those dishes that brings a smile to everyone’s face, no matter their age. Baking it fills your home with a rich, tantalizing aroma that pulls everyone to the table. Creating lasagna together can be a fun, bonding experience in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Italian Sliders

Close-up of sesame seed-topped sliders filled with sliced meat and melted cheese.
Italian Sliders. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Small in size but big on flavor, Italian Sliders have a way of becoming the star of any meal. Perfect for a casual dinner or a gathering with friends, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and enjoy. Juicy fillings coupled with fresh buns make each slider a delight. They are great for getting the conversation flowing around the kitchen table.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

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.

Sometimes, the simplest dishes are the most memorable, like Cacio e Pepe. With only a few ingredients, it’s surprising how much flavor you can get from this classic pasta dish. Picture the creamy, cheesy goodness coating each strand, making it a no-fuss favorite. It’s an excellent choice for a quick, tasty dinner after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rich and creamy, Pasta Carbonara brings a taste of Italy right to your dinner table. Whipping up this dish means indulging in a mix of flavors that work perfectly together. It’s quick to cook and always feels like a special meal. Inviting the classic comfort into your home will surely make your kitchen a happy spot.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Ooni Pizza Dough

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

Crafting your own pizza can be magical, especially with Ooni Pizza Dough. The dough offers the perfect foundation for your favorite toppings, making every pizza night fun and custom. The process of kneading and watching the dough rise brings excitement to the kitchen. Realizing that you’ve made something so foundational by hand is incredibly rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Close-up of a pasta dish with corn, bacon, and herbs, seasoned with a creamy yellow sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Imagine cooking up a comforting bowl of Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. The blend of tender chicken, sweet corn, and rich sauce makes it a completely delicious meal. It’s a great way to add some variety to your weeknight dinner lineup. Each bite provides a little creaminess and a bit of sweetness, creating a unique flavor profile.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Italian Dressing

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

Sometimes, you need a quick and easy way to bring life to your salad. Italian Dressing can do just that with its blend of herbs and spices. Just drizzle it over your greens and mix it in. Pair it with some crusty bread for a full experience. Enjoy a salad that’s refreshing and full of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

There’s something about combining pasta and salami that just works. Italian Pasta with Salami brings these two favorites together in a hearty dish. The salami adds a delicious depth to the pasta. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a casual night in. Simple ingredients, big flavors.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Tortellini Soup

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

Warm up with a bowl that packs both flavor and comfort. Tortellini Soup brings together tender pasta and a rich broth. It’s a fantastic option for those chilly nights. Just add your favorite veggies and maybe some grated cheese. Perfect for a cozy meal at home.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

How about a dish that feels like a trip to Italy, Tuscan Pasta does just that, with its creamy sauce and fresh ingredients. It’s a delicious option for a weeknight dinner. Add your favorite veggies or proteins to make it more hearty. Feels like dining in a Tuscan villa.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

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.

Few things can make your kitchen smell better than baking bread. Garlic Knots offer that and more with their soft, garlicky goodness. Perfect as a side or just on their own. Dipped in marinara sauce, they’re irresistible. You’ll want to make a double batch.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Crave that Olive Garden taste at home, Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara is where it’s at. Rich, creamy and loaded with flavor. Serve it with a fresh salad or some garlic bread. It’s like bringing the restaurant to your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

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.

Looking to try something classic yet different, Pasta alla Norma combines eggplant and pasta in a simple yet delicious way. The flavors meld together beautifully. It’s an excellent choice for a vegetarian meal. Ideal for those who love authentic Italian cuisine.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

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.

Everyone loves a good side of bread with their meal. Garlic Bread is quick to make and pairs well with almost anything. Crunchy, garlicky, and all-around delicious. Perfect for soaking up that extra sauce on your plate. Make sure to have plenty on hand because it goes fast.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

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.

Sometimes you just need a hearty bowl of soup. Minestrone Soup is packed with veggies and beans. It’s nutritious and very delicious. Serve it with a side of crusty bread. Great for a comforting meal at any time of the year. Whether for family dinners or special occasions, carbonara is always a winner.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Craving some classic Italian flavors, Spaghetti Marinara offers a delicious and simple answer. It’s all about that perfect tomato sauce. Top it with some fresh herbs and grated cheese. Always a good idea for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Make dinnertime special with a cheesy pasta dish. Three Cheese Manicotti is filled with creamy, cheesy goodness. It’s great for any cheese lover. Pair it with a simple green salad. Dinner has never tasted so comforting. Bringing hearty, Italian-inspired flavors to your kitchen has never been easier.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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