29 Italian Recipes That Made Me Pour A Glass Of Wine And Stay Awhile

This lineup of 29 Italian recipes makes it feel like everything can slow down for once. It’s the kind of group that makes standing in the kitchen feel less of a chore and more like a decent excuse to delay anything else. There’s something about putting these together that makes people stay a little longer, refill their glass, and ignore their to-do list just a bit.

Neapolitan Pizza

Few things compare to the simple joy of a great pizza straight out of the oven. Neapolitan Pizza stands out with its thin crust, light layers, and just the right touch of toppings. It’s all about the balance that highlights how less can often be more. You might want to slow down and take your time, especially with a glass of wine nearby.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Spicy Lasagna Soup

A warm bowl has never been more inviting. Spicy Lasagna Soup takes the classic lasagna flavors and packs them into a bowl with just the right kick. It’s hearty without feeling too much and has a way of making each spoonful just right. Certainly worth sitting back with some wine after the first sip.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Pizza Salad

If you can’t decide between a green dish or something cheesy, then you’re in luck. Pizza Salad pairs the best parts of pizza with crunchy fresh parts for variety. It gives a lighter twist to the usual pizza experience while keeping it perfect for a casual sit-down. Taking your time and enjoying every bite feels almost automatic.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Marry Me Chicken Soup

Bold in name and even better in taste, this recipe might just win hearts. Marry Me Chicken Soup brings a creamy and rich twist to your typical chicken soup. Bite after bite, it’s easy to see how comforting it can be, especially paired with a good drink. Call it cozy or just plain good, either way, it’s worth the time.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Mushroom Pizza

For those who love something earthy and full of simple depth, this might be it. Mushroom Pizza offers a rich yet balanced flavor that feels just right for taking it slow. Each bite layers the flavors just enough to make it stand out from your usual pie. Pairing this with wine feels less like a choice and more like the only option.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

A wrap that makes lunch feel just a little bit different in the best way. Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap takes a classic salad and folds it neatly into a portable burst of flavor. It’s perfect for those moments when you want a mix of greens with the satisfaction of handheld comfort. Taking it slow and enjoying it right makes all the difference.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Artichoke Pizza

If you’re looking for a pizza with a bit of intrigue, this is one to try. Artichoke Pizza combines creamy elements with that unique artichoke flavor that stands out. It brings something different to the table that feels approachable yet special. Sitting with this and a glass of wine just makes sense.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Best Lemon Pasta

For pasta fans who want something fresh and vibrant, this might hit the mark. Best Lemon Pasta keeps the flavors light but interesting enough to hold your attention. It’s a dish that feels perfect when you want something simple yet satisfying. The slower you eat it, the more you appreciate every bite, especially with good wine.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Neapolitan Ice Cream

Sometimes simplicity is all you need, and this delivers. Neapolitan Ice Cream brings together classic flavors, perfect for choosing one or mixing them all. It’s a dessert that’s made for slow enjoyment, whether it’s by itself or after a big meal. Wine is optional here, but it doesn’t hurt to pair with some sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

Penne Alla Vodka

Pasta lovers know, there’s always a favorite with a kick. Penne Alla Vodka mixes creamy texture with a bit of bold edge, perfect for lingering at the table. It’s indulgent enough to feel like you’re treating yourself but balanced enough to keep eating. Add a good wine, and staying awhile feels inevitable.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Bite-sized and full of charm, they’re perfect for making a relaxed moment feel complete. Caprese Pesto Tarts mix the freshness of basil with other classic tastes that keep it familiar. They’re small but pack enough flavor to become a great pick for casual gatherings. Pairing them with a quiet sit-down and a drink is an easy win.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Layers that bring comforting moments to the forefront, this has it all. Chicken Alfredo Lasagna blends creamy richness with just enough hearty layers. Each bite offers something to linger on, making it great for slowing down the pace of a busy day. All it takes is a plate, a drink, and some extra time to enjoy it fully.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Caprese Appetizer

Sometimes all you need is something small but flavorful before the main event. Caprese Appetizer brings the unbeatable pairing of classic ingredients to start things off right. It’s quick to grab but lingers on your palate long enough to make an impression. Sharing this with a glass nearby feels like the right way to begin a meal.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Cacio e Pepe

Pasta at its simplest and best is what this dish offers. Cacio e Pepe strips everything back to focus on just a handful of things done perfectly. It’s a reminder that simple food can be the most rewarding when given time to enjoy. Taking a bite, sipping some wine, and pausing between each feels like the only way to approach it.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Garlic Knots

Few things match the smell of these coming out of the oven. Garlic Knots are not just a side but a reason in themselves to sit back and enjoy. Each bite is perfectly soft and brings enough garlicky goodness to keep reaching for more. Sharing them with friends or keeping them all to yourself both feel like great choices.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Pasta alla Norma

For those who enjoy pasta with a touch of tradition, this delivers. Pasta alla Norma uses rich elements that have made it a favorite for many without feeling overdone. It’s a plate worth taking your time over, from its first bite to its last. Pairing this with something to drink just makes every bite feel better.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Garlic Bread

A simple bread that’s anything but forgettable makes this a table staple. Garlic Bread is all about that balance between crisp edges and soft, buttery insides. It’s great on its own, even better when paired with everything else on your table. Slowing down with a plate and conversation around this makes for a relaxed moment.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Something about chicken and corn together feels like the start of a good thing. Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta only builds on that idea with its rich and smooth texture in each bite. It’s one of those quick meals that feels just as good as something prepared all day. Throw in the right drink, and you’ve got reasons to stick around.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Pistachio Ice Cream

Ice cream flavors come and go, but this one sticks for all the right reasons. Pistachio Ice Cream offers that nutty flavor with just enough creaminess to make it stand out. It’s a dessert that feels intentional, making you pause to enjoy every spoonful. On warm days or after a hearty meal, it just fits perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

For anyone who’s wished for a restaurant dish at home, this checks that box. Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta gives you that same creamy, flavorful pasta without needing to leave the house. It makes any mealtime feel a bit more special while staying as cozy as a homemade dish. Adding wine takes the experience up a notch.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Italian Sub Pinwheels

When it’s time for something quick but packed with flavor, these are the answer. Italian Sub Pinwheels offer a bit of everything rolled into one easy-to-eat bite. Perfect for sharing or saving for yourself, they bring a casual, fun element to any table. Pairing them with a drink makes hanging out even better.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sub Pinwheels

Fruit Pizza

A dessert that balances fun and flavor, this one keeps things fresh. Fruit Pizza gives you sweetness with a light and crisp crust to keep the textures interesting. It’s a playful twist on dessert, but doesn’t skimp on making it worth a try. Pairing it with some downtime and a drink keeps it that much better.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Baked Ziti

A baked dish that always feels like it’s made for sharing or keeping all to yourself. Baked Ziti layers in rich and hearty textures that never lose their crowd-pleasing charm. It’s familiar, filling, and worth taking your time enjoying. With a drink in hand, you might find it hard to stop.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

Italian Dressing

Italian Dressing is perfect for giving your greens just the right amount of flavor without feeling too much. Great for salads or even lighter dips, it helps transform the next mealtime. With this on hand, every salad automatically gets a bit better. A light drizzle can make all the difference when done well.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A recipe name like this speaks for itself once you try it. Marry Me Chicken Orzo combines rich and creamy flavors with hearty orzo for a balanced dish. It’s hard not to linger over this one, especially when every bite seems better than the last. Taking your time and pairing it with a drink feels almost necessary.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Pizza Casserole

Pasta mixed with pizza in one dish makes for instant comfort food. Pizza Casserole combines the best parts of two favorites into something easy to enjoy. Whether it’s for a laid-back evening or shared with a group, it fits all occasions. Grabbing seconds is almost guaranteed once the first plate is gone.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Cheese Ravioli

Pasta stuffed with gooey goodness like this doesn’t need much else. Cheese Ravioli delivers comforting simplicity right in every bite. Whether served on its own or with a small side, it holds up as a mealtime standout. Add a glass to the mix, and there’s no rush to finish.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Tiramisu

For desserts that feel like an experience, this is the answer. Tiramisu layers flavors so well that each bite invites another. It’s indulgent without overwhelming, making it a perfect pairing for a relaxed moment with coffee or wine. Save room, but don’t wait too long to dig in.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Lasagna filled with these two favorites makes a great variation on the classic. Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna balances the creamy cheese with greens in a way that feels just right. Every bite feels rich without being heavy, perfect for slowing down at dinner. Lingering at the table feels like an easy choice with this.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna