Nothing Fancy— Just The 29 Italian Recipes That Keep Me Sane
Some days call for comfort without the extra fuss. Nothing fancy—just the 29 Italian recipes that keep things feeling right. Each dish is warm, simple, and full of flavor. From pasta to baked meals, every bite brings a little peace. These recipes make the day feel easier and the table feel full.

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

When you’re in the mood for a comforting, home-cooked meal, Marry Me Chicken Casserole hits the spot. It’s layered with juicy chicken, rich sauce, and gooey cheese. This dish can become a family favorite in no time. What more could you ask for in a meal?
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole
Antipasto Salad

Sometimes, you just crave something light and refreshing. Antipasto Salad is a mix of vibrant veggies, hearty meats, and cheese, all tossed in a tangy dressing. It’s great for a quick lunch or as a starter for your Italian dinner. A lovely balance that keeps things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Spicy Lasagna Soup

Warm up with a hearty bowl of goodness that’s both comforting and flavorful. Spicy Lasagna Soup combines all the beloved lasagna ingredients in a tasty, brothy mix. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you need something rich and delicious. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup
Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Combining juicy chicken with tender orzo pasta creates a deliciously comforting dish. Marry Me Chicken Orzo is perfect for any night when you crave something cozy. The flavors blend beautifully, making it something special. Easy to whip up but feels extra special.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo
Artichoke Pizza

Creamy artichokes paired with a golden crust bring out a balance of bite and softness that’s so delicious. Artichoke Pizza doesn’t overcomplicate things but still feels special. Perfect for days when you need something comforting without going overboard. A straightforward yet flavorful option to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza
Homemade Lasagna

When it’s time to indulge, nothing beats layers of pasta, cheese, and rich sauce. Homemade Lasagna brings that classic, comforting taste everyone loves. Preparing it can be a labor of love, but the results are so worth it. Perfect for a family meal that’s both hearty and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna
Tiramisu

Soft layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers, rich mascarpone, and a hint of cocoa make Tiramisu a dessert to remember. It’s creamy and decadent, offering a perfect end to any meal. This classic Italian treat brings a smile with every bite. A perfect way to finish your Italian feast.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu
Best Lemon Pasta

Bright and tangy, Best Lemon Pasta combines lemon with perfectly cooked pasta. It’s light enough for a weeknight dinner but still packed with flavor. Just a few ingredients and you’re set. Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most delicious!
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Neapolitan Ice Cream

A trio of flavors in one dish, Neapolitan Ice Cream gives you chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry goodness. It’s simple yet offers variety, pleasing everyone at the table. Perfect for dessert or as a treat anytime. A timeless choice that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream
Ravioli Casserole

Hearty and comforting, Ravioli Casserole takes cheesy ravioli and bakes it to perfection. With gooey cheese and tasty sauce, it’s hard to resist. Perfect for a family dinner. A dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole
Caesar Salad

Crisp lettuce mixed with a tangy dressing, topped with crunchy croutons and parmesan cheese Caesar Salad is a classic dish that never disappoints. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side with your favorite Italian meal. Simple and fresh, it’s a must-try!
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad
Cacio e Pepe

Simple yet flavorful, Cacio e Pepe is a pasta dish made with just cheese and pepper. It’s quick to make and perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The creamy cheese sauce clings to the pasta, making every bite delicious. Easy, tasty, and authentic Italian.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe
Ooni Pizza Dough

Making pizza at home is so much fun, especially with Ooni Pizza Dough. It gives you that perfect, crispy base every time. Just roll it out, top with your favorite ingredients, and bake. Pizza night has never been easier or more delicious!
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough
Three Cheese Manicotti

Filled with a rich blend of cheeses, Three Cheese Manicotti is pure comfort on a plate. Each bite provides a perfect mix of flavors. Ideal for a weekend dinner when you want something special. A cheesy delight that’s hard to beat.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti
Easy Caprese Salad

Fresh and simple, Easy Caprese Salad mixes tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a delicious dish. It’s great as a starter or a light lunch. Drizzled with balsamic and olive oil, it’s refreshing and tasty. A classic Italian recipe that’s always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad
Pasta Carbonara

Creamy and rich, Pasta Carbonara combines eggs, cheese, and pancetta in a delectable sauce. It’s a quick dish that’s incredibly comforting and flavorful. Perfect for any pasta lover. Just a few ingredients create an unforgettable meal.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara
Garlic Aioli

Rich and garlicky, this simple spread transforms even the simplest sandwiches or sides. Garlic Aioli is creamy and versatile, whether you’re dipping or spreading. It’s an upgrade that doesn’t feel like work in the kitchen and always delivers on taste. No overthinking required to enjoy something flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Slow-cooked magic brings out rich and comforting flavors while keeping it simple and hearty. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken is a no-fuss dish packed with creamy goodness to enjoy any time. Every bite feels like a warm hug of care. Perfect for those dinner moments where you need something wholesome to lean on.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Pasta Primavera

A medley of colorful vegetables meets perfectly cooked pasta to create something fresh and fulfilling. Pasta Primavera strikes the balance between simplicity and flavor. It’s hearty and light all at once, making it a reliable pick when you aren’t feeling complicated recipes. Great for clean and easy eating.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera
Italian Dressing

Vibrant yet simple, this adds a robust touch to salads or even roasted veggies. Italian Dressing is just enough without stealing the show, keeping food tasty and balanced. Homemade feels good when the flavors are this pure. A staple addition to keep things steady in your kitchen meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing
Spaghetti Marinara

Simple pasta meets a rich tomato base for a straightforward yet full-flavored plate. Spaghetti Marinara gets straight to the point—comfort food that’s easy to put together. Nothing fancy, just reliable flavors you can count on. Definitely one to keep in rotation for a relaxed meal feel.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara
Neapolitan Pizza

Thin crust meets simple toppings that pack the right punch every time. Neapolitan Pizza proves good food doesn’t need fussing over, just solid ingredients. A straightforward dish you’ll turn to regularly, whether for lunch breaks or a quiet dinner. Enjoy the simple satisfaction of classic Italian flavors.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza
Pasta alla Norma

Eggplant meets pasta in a way that’s bold yet dependable for any occasion. Pasta alla Norma carries layers of flavors without feeling overcomplicated to make. It’s warm and filling—perfect for those days when you need something easy yet flavorful. A dish you’ll keep coming back to without second thoughts.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma
Italian Sliders

Bite-sized and easy, these pack a punch with layers of simple yet tasty fillings. Italian Sliders are perfect for those moments when sandwiches won’t do but you want something similar. They’re straightforward without losing their charm. Great for any time of day with no extra effort needed.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Layers of fresh spinach mix with creamy ricotta to create something rich yet not heavy. Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna keeps flavors bold without being overwhelming. It feels like dinner perfected—easy, warm, and delicious. Perfect for those evenings where cooking needs to be relaxing, not rushed.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Garlic Bread

Golden toast layered with a simple touch of garlic makes for snack or side perfection. Garlic Bread fits into any meal without stealing attention, though its taste stands on its own. It’s something you’ll whip together quickly but always appreciate once it’s served. A go-to when you want a little comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Italian Pasta with Salami

A mix of bold salami with tender pasta gives this an effortless yet robust feel. Italian Pasta with Salami doesn’t try too hard, making it a straightforward option. Every bite feels grounded yet enjoyable, perfect when you want something with character. No stress, just hearty flavors that come together easily.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami
Fruit Pizza

Sweet and fresh, this dessert brings together layers that keep things naturally light. Fruit Pizza never feels complicated but gets the job done for a final bite. Perfect for when you want something a little sweet but still simple and handmade. A great break from heavy desserts in no time at all.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Whole chicken pieces meet a creamy corn base to offer richness without going over the top. Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta makes for an easy yet dependable dinner option. It’s the kind of dish you’ll turn to time and time again on busy evenings. Perfect for fulfilling those moments where simplicity is key.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta
About the Author

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.
