My Meal Plan Lives And Breathes These 29 Italian Recipes

No one meant to build a meal plan entirely around 29 Italian classics, but here we are, and no one’s mad about it. They’re the kind of go-to meals that somehow fix dinner and bad moods in one shot. It’s less about sticking to a plan and more about knowing these are the recipes that won’t cause any arguments.

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

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

You won’t believe how comforting Million Dollar Spaghetti is, with its perfect balance of textures and flavors. It brings together tender pasta, layers packed with flavor, and a rich sauce. This dish is hearty enough for a big crowd but works just as well for family dinners. It’s the kind of meal that makes moments at the dinner table truly memorable.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Artichoke Pizza

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

If you’re looking for something with a twist, Artichoke Pizza delivers something fresh to the usual pizza lineup. The unique flavor combination sets it apart and keeps things exciting. Perfect for when you want something different but still fulfilling. You’ll find it fits perfectly for sharing with friends or enjoying solo.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

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.

Adding bold flavors to pasta night, Italian Pasta with Salami changes up the routine with its unexpected combination. It’s a great way to mix things up for when you need a hearty meal without the same-old toppings. A mix that feels both comforting and fresh. You’ll enjoy how the flavors come together effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Simplicity shines in Neapolitan Pizza, offering a crisp base that highlights its fresh, basic ingredients. It proves that when quality is right, you don’t need a huge list. Perfect for sharing with friends or making a casual dinner feel special. Once you try it, you’ll see why it’s so iconic worldwide.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

A plate of spaghetti topped with grilled chicken strips and garnished with chopped parsley, bell peppers, and shredded cheese.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Recreating restaurant favorites at home is easy with Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta, which feels right out of a fancy menu. Loaded with flavor, it has everything you’d expect in a fulfilling pasta dish. Great for when you want something familiar but homemade. You won’t miss takeout once this is on your table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Tortellini Soup

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

Tortellini Soup is perfect for cozy dinners or feeding a group. Its combination of tender pasta and rich flavors makes it feel like comfort at its best. You’ll appreciate how simple yet complete each bowl feels. Whether a quick lunch or dinner, it’s always welcome.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

There’s something fulfilling about Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna, which layers flavors together so effortlessly. It’s perfect for when you want a meal with substance that still feels balanced. Ideal for vegetarians or anyone craving pasta with flair. Great for feeding a crowd or for meal prepping.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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.

Bringing variety to dessert time, Neapolitan Ice Cream delivers a trio of flavors in one simple package. You’ll love how effortless it is to switch things up with each bite. A go-to option for families or anyone craving something classic. It’s perfect for serving at casual get-togethers or just ending a meal on a sweet note.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Making lunches feel fresh and packed with flavor, Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap offers a new spin on salads. It’s quick, portable, and doesn’t compromise on taste. Great for workdays or a light dinner when you’re short on time. Easy to share or make ahead for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bold but comforting, Marry Me Chicken Soup brings together rich, fulfilling flavors into one meal. It feels like the perfect bowl to warm up after a long day. You’ll enjoy how everything comes together in this twist on traditional chicken soup. Great for family meals or trying something a little new.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Mushroom Risotto

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

Mushroom Risotto makes meals feel tasty even with simple ingredients. It offers richness without feeling overwhelming and is an easy crowd-pleaser. Use it as the main dish or as a side to complement something else. It’s a classic option for dinner parties or low-key nights at home.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

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.

Mixing flavors and textures, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is perfect for both quick meals and relaxed evenings. It combines comfort with just a hint of something more unique. Great for making your weeknight dinners feel different but still easy to prepare. You’ll enjoy how it balances hearty and light elements.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn 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.

Garlic Bread delivers bold flavors without over-complicating things. Perfect as a side or snack, it fits into so many meals effortlessly. You’ll love how simple yet essential it feels in rounding out a plate. Great for sharing with friends and family at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Switching up classic pizza, Pizza Casserole makes evenings at home feel special without extra fuss. It offers familiar flavors in a whole new form that’s easy to serve. Perfect for weekday dinners or making ahead for potlucks. You’ll love how customizable and family-friendly it always feels.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Caprese Appetizer

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

Caprese Appetizer makes it easy to build a crowd-pleaser in minutes. It’s a balanced mix of ingredients that feels perfect for starting off a meal without overdoing it. Ideal for gatherings or light snacking at home. You won’t need much effort to impress with this on the table.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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.

A dessert that stands out, Tiramisu offers a balanced sweetness, perfect for casual or formal occasions. Simple yet classic, it’s loved for how its flavors always satisfy. Great for ending any dinner with something memorable. Its texture and taste come together effortlessly in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Italian Dressing

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

Adding flavor to your meal, Italian Dressing works perfectly for salads or adding a little twist to dishes. Quick and versatile, it’s an easy way to enhance everyday meals. Perfect for busy lunch breaks or dressing up simple ingredients. It’s always good to have on hand to mix things up.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

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.

Something unique and flavorful, Morel Mushroom Pasta brings special ingredients into a familiar dish. Perfect for showing off something a little different without over-complicating things. Great for hosting or just making dinner feel special. It’s easy to appreciate each bite for its earthy richness.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

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.

With fresh layers of flavor, Caprese Pesto Tarts make snacking or appetizers fun and shareable. Great for gatherings or weekday meals that need a little something extra. They’re just the right size for light bites or casual sharing. You’ll love how well they balance simplicity and bold flavors.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

Pasta Carbonara keeps things simple while delivering bold flavor. Perfect for quick dinners or days when you want something low-effort but no less tasty. It’s versatile enough for any occasion and works well as a base to add your favorite extras. Once you’ve tried it, it’s hard to forget how enjoyable it is.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

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.

Soft, warm, and flavorful, Garlic Knots are always welcome at the table as snacks or sides. They add a fun touch to meals without feeling out of place. Great for sharing or complementing pasta dishes. You’ll appreciate how easily they blend with tons of recipes.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Ravioli Casserole

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

Bringing ravioli into a new form, Ravioli Casserole is a hearty option everyone can enjoy. It works wonders for feeding groups or switching up dinner routines. Simple to put together, yet it feels like a fully thought-out meal. Perfect for making ahead and serving whenever needed.
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.

Adding boldness to dips or spreads, Garlic Aioli gives everyday meals something extra. It’s versatile and pairs well with all kinds of dishes. Whether as a side sauce or part of something bigger, it delivers flavor in every bite. Great for quick lunches or dressing up dinner creations.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish.
Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creating something full of comforting flavors, Marry Me Tortellini brings boldness with its twist on pasta. Great for casual meals or trying something different for dinner nights at home. Perfect for sharing or keeping all to yourself. It’s hard not to love its hearty and wholesome feel.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, grated cheese, and dressing.
Caesar Salad. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Perfect for light lunches or pairings, Caesar Salad delivers well-loved flavors with minimum effort. Its balance of textures works well for casual dining or formal occasions. You don’t need extra effort to enjoy how fulfilling it can be. Versatile and dependable, it complements tons of meals easily.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

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.

Mixing bold flavors with the comfort of soup, Spicy Lasagna Soup feels like a whole meal in one bowl. Ideal for chilly nights or feeding groups with something distinct. It features everything you love about lasagna but in a completely different form. Once you try it, you’ll want it again for quick, hearty dinners.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Gnocchi

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

Gnocchi makes dinner nights relaxing with its cozy texture. It pairs easily with a range of flavors, making it versatile for all kinds of meals. Great for family dinners or something simpler when you want an easy go-to. You’ll love how easy it is to include in your regular lineup.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Ooni Pizza Dough

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

Getting pizza night just right starts with Ooni Pizza Dough, offering a reliable base for your pies. Whether making pizzas for gatherings or just yourself, this dough sets the stage for great homemade meals. It’s perfect for dinner nights where creativity takes the lead. Once you try it, making pizza at home feels even easier.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Easy Caprese Salad

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

Bringing freshness to the table, Easy Caprese Salad makes light meals feel special without extra effort. Its simplicity is perfect for quick lunches or pairing with larger dishes. You’ll love how easily it fits into any occasion. Whether at gatherings or sitting down alone, it’s a dependable choice.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

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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