Dine Like You’re In Rome With 29 Authentic Italian Recipes

Want to dine like you’re in Rome? Here are 29 authentic Italian recipes to transport senses straight to the heart of Italy. Each dish is a timeless classic, crafted to weave tradition with taste. Perfect for any meal where style meets simplicity — Italy is just a recipe away!

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ravioli Casserole

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

When you can’t decide between ravioli and a hearty casserole, why not have both? Ravioli Casserole marries the two in a comforting, oven-baked delight. Cheesy, meaty, and utterly Italian. It’s like bringing the Italian countryside into your kitchen. For nights when comfort is on the menu, and Italy is in your heart.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

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.

Considered the treasure trove of pasta dishes, Million Dollar Spaghetti is as indulgent as it sounds. It’s like lasagna and spaghetti had a baby that’s rich in taste and comfort. Ideal for gatherings where you want to leave a lasting impression. Even the name sparks curiosity and excitement.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

There’s always room for Cheese Ravioli when you’re dining like you’re in Italy. Each piece is a glimpse into the heart of Italian kitchens. It goes beyond just dinner; it’s about sharing the love of good food. Everyone gathered around the table will be asking for seconds. Ideal for those nights when you crave comfort without compromise.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

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.

For those nights when you crave comfort in a bowl, Marry Me Chicken Soup comes to the rescue. It’s warm, it’s comforting, and it feels like a hug from the inside. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you’re simply in need of some soul food, it delivers.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

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.

Garlic Aioli is one of those essentials that brightens up any meal. Think of it as your secret ingredient for bringing Italian flair home. It’s creamy, it’s garlicky, and it’s utterly irresistible. Goes great on basically anything. Who knew such a simple sauce could be so transformative?
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

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.

For those who enjoy a bit of creaminess in their dish, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is a dream. It’s a blend that might not be traditional but tastes like it was meant to be. Who knew chicken and corn could take you right to Rome? Even the pickiest eaters can’t resist its charm.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Easy Caprese Salad

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

If you’re looking for simplicity that impresses, Easy Caprese Salad is your go-to. It’s proof that sometimes, less really is more. Each bite is like sitting in an Italian garden cafe. Plus, it’s as easy as it gets when it comes to preparation.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Best Lemon Pasta

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

When it comes to light and fresh meals, nothing beats Best Lemon Pasta. It’s like bringing Italian sunshine to your plate without having to leave home. Every forkful is a reminder of Rome’s vibrant eateries. You don’t have to be an expert to whip it up.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon 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.

Can you even say you had an Italian meal without Garlic Bread? It’s the highlight that complements every dish. Getting it just right—crispy on the outside, soft on the inside—is the goal. It’s often the first thing to vanish from the table, and for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

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.

If you’re keen on bringing some Italian flair to your kitchen, Italian Pasta with Salami is your ticket. Every bite transports you to a bustling Roman market. It’s equally perfect for a casual dinner or a cozy night in. Just add a side of garlic bread and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

For those times when regular bread just won’t do, Garlic Knots come to the rescue. They’re fun, they’re fluffy, and they’re full of flavor. Perfect for pulling apart and dipping in sauces. It’s like every knot is a little piece of Italy. Great for gatherings or just a casual dinner.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Marry Me Chicken Pasta

A plate of creamy penne pasta garnished with chopped parsley and grated cheese, featuring pieces of sun-dried tomatoes. A black fork is resting on the plate.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Rumor has it that Marry Me Chicken Pasta has the power to prompt spontaneous proposals. It’s creamy, it’s dreamy, and it’s utterly romantic. Perfect for a date night at home where you want to impress without stress.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Italian Sliders

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

When it’s time for a casual yet utterly delicious meal, Italian Sliders steal the show. These little sandwiches pack a punch of flavor that’s hard to resist. They’re the perfect pick for a laid-back meal with friends or family.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

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.

Dishing out from Sicily, it’s raining eggplants and ricotta salata. Pasta alla Norma brings you the essence of Italy with a tomatoey embrace. Each forkful is a tribute to the opera Norma. It’s about simplicity and depth of flavor intertwined. Perfect for evenings when Italy calls from your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who said pizza couldn’t be reinvented? Pizza Salad tosses the rulebook out, mixing crunch with your beloved pizza toppings. It’s crisp, it’s fresh, and yet, unmistakably Italian. It’s like Italy decided to get creative with your meal.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

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.

There’s something about Homemade Lasagna that feels like a big hug. It’s layered, it’s cheesy, and it’s everything you want in a dish. It takes a bit of time, but the results are worth every minute. Perfect for those special dinners with family and friends.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Caprese Appetizer

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

Before diving into the main course, Caprese Appetizer is what you need to get everyone talking. All it takes are a few quality ingredients to transport you to a Roman cafe. It’s truly Italian simplicity at its best. You won’t believe how quickly it disappears from the table. Perfect for when you want to impress without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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.

Indulge in the earthy flavors of Morel Mushroom Pasta and discover a side of Italian cuisine that’s rich and luxurious. Morels, with their unique taste, add a layer of depth to pasta that’s unparalleled. It’s a dish that speaks of special occasions or the need for a gourmet experience at home.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Italian Dressing

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

Looking for a quick way to add some Italian taste to your meals? Italian Dressing is the answer. With just a shake, salads transform into something restaurant-worthy. It’s light, it’s tangy, and it’s versatile. An essential in any kitchen for when meals need a little extra kick.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cozying up with a plate that whispers Italy with a vodka twist. Penne Alla Vodka is all about that smooth, creamy tomato sauce with a kick. Each bite is a little bit of Italian daring meets comfort. Perfect for those evenings when you want a touch of indulgence. It’s like Italy decided to throw a little party, just for you.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Mushroom Risotto

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

Crafting the perfect Mushroom Risotto is like performing a little kitchen magic. Stirring slowly, watching the rice absorb the broth, is part of the allure. The creamy texture combined with the rich mushroom flavor is a tribute to Italian comfort food. It requires a bit of patience, but the result is always worth it.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

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.

Italy’s answer to soul-warming food. Each spoonful of Minestrone Soup is a celebration of Italian produce and flavors. It’s versatile, making it a hit no matter what veggies you have on hand. Perfect for those days when you want a meal that’s both nourishing and comforting. Serve it steaming with a sprinkle of Parmesan and watch it disappear.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Neapolitan Pizza brings the pure essence of Naples right to your dining table. It’s all about the simplicity of fresh ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. Mastering the thin, blistered crust is a rite of passage for pizza lovers. Each slice is a testament to the art of Italian pizza making.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Ooni Pizza Dough

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

Preparing Ooni Pizza Dough is the first step towards achieving pizza perfection at home. The process is simple, but the results are incredibly rewarding. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or a beginner, this dough is your canvas. Gather your favorite toppings and get ready for a pizza night that’ll become a cherished ritual.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

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.

Imagine landing in Rome with just a fork. Pasta Carbonara comes to the rescue with its creamy and comforting embrace. Eggs, cheese, and pancetta join forces in a combination of Italian perfection. No cream needed, just the magic of Italian cooking techniques. It’s like a hug from an Italian Nonna, really.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce spread over a pizza crust.
Pizza Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Let’s talk about the heart of any great pizza. Pizza Sauce is that magical base that sets the stage for your toppings. Rich tomatoes blended with herbs take you straight to Italy. It’s simple, yet packed with flavor. Just the right start for any pizza night that dreams of Italy.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Spaghetti Marinara

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

Slipping into the heart of Italy with a dish as classic as it gets. Spaghetti Marinara is simplicity draped in tomato sauce, garnished with herbs. Each twirl on the fork feels like a tour through Italian tradition. It’s not just pasta; it’s an experience. Just right for those days when only classic Italian will do.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Celebrating Italy’s bounty with every bite, vegetables are the stars here. Pasta Primavera is like a garden party on your plate, with pasta joining in. Who said you need meat to experience the full Italian deal? Freshness leads the way, making each mouthful a refreshing journey. Ideal for days when you want Italy’s freshest on your table.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

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.

When you think it doesn’t get more Italian, along comes a dish with just cheese and pepper. Cacio e Pepe is the ultimate simplicity turned into a creamy pasta dream. It’s about those nights when less is more, and simplicity wins. Just three ingredients bringing Italy to your door. It’s tradition, comfort, and Italy all rolled into one.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

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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