How To Make 29 Italian Dishes That Rival Your Favorite Restaurant

Mastering 29 Italian dishes at home sounds bold, but it’s a lot easier than pretending to enjoy a cold takeout pizza. With these recipes, the only thing missing will be the bill at the end of the meal. Friends and family might start showing up suspiciously close to dinnertime. Don’t say you weren’t warned.

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

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.

With Marry Me Chicken Casserole, you won’t need a special occasion to whip up this dish. It’s easy enough for a weeknight but feels fancy enough for a special dinner. Everyone will be asking for seconds, wondering how you made it. It’s a solid choice when you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Caesar Salad

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

Caesar Salad isn’t just another side dish; it holds its own at the dinner table. Perfectly dressed and ready to pair with just about anything, it hits the spot every time. It’s the kind of salad that makes you understand why salads became popular. It’s simple, but don’t let that fool you – it packs a flavor punch.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

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.

If you’re in the mood for something cozy, Million Dollar Spaghetti is your go-to. It combines all the comforts of your favorite pasta dish with a few luxurious twists. This is the pasta dish that makes everyone at the table silent, except for the sounds of forks twirling. And trust me, leftovers are even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

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.

Antipasto Salad brings a burst of excitement to the table with its bold tastes and textures. It’s perfect for when you need something refreshing but still packed with flavor. Every bite offers something different, ensuring you never get bored. This dish is a surefire way to start any meal on a high note.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Sometimes, all you need is Marry Me Shrimp Pasta to turn a regular evening into something special. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it’s got that ‘wow’ factor you’re after. This dish makes a convincing case for the power of a good pasta to make any day feel like a celebration. It’s not just good; it’s “make it every week” good.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Artichoke Pizza

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

With Artichoke Pizza, you get an out-of-the-ordinary pizza experience that’s as enjoyable as it is unique. This pizza throws a fun curveball into your usual pizza night lineup. It’s for those times you want to shake things up a bit without going too wild. There’s just something about it that keeps you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

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.

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings the restaurant experience right to your kitchen. It proves you don’t have to go out to enjoy restaurant-quality meals. This dish has a comforting familiarity to it, with just enough twist to feel exciting. It’s the perfect meal for when you want to treat yourself at home.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

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.

For a fun spin on a classic, Pizza Casserole combines all the pizza goodness with the heartiness of a casserole. It’s like getting the best of both worlds in one dish. Perfect for feeding a crowd or just satisfying a serious pizza craving. It’s one of those dishes that everyone can agree on.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

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.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta is all about bringing that special dine-out feeling home. It reminds you of your favorite restaurant dish, but with the pride of making it yourself. This pasta dish is a hit for its creamy sauce and tender chicken. It’s not just a meal, it’s an accomplishment.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi 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.

This salad is the epitome of simple elegance. Easy Caprese Salad is fresh, quick, and it dances on the line between simple and sophisticated. A dish that’s as perfect for entertaining as it is for a simple, healthy snack. It embodies the idea that sometimes, less really is more.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

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.

If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta is the answer. This dish is all about comfort, from the creamy sauce to the tender chicken and sweet corn. It’s hearty and satisfying without being overly complicated. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Caprese Appetizer

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

Caprese Appetizer is the perfect kick-off for any gathering, or just to start your meal on a light note. It’s bite-sized goodness that’s both refreshing and rich. Easy to make and even easier to love, it’s a classic for a reason. Everyone will be reaching for more.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

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 nothing like Homemade Lasagna to make a meal feel special. Layer upon layer, it’s a work of art and patience, resulting in a dish that’s always worth the wait. It’s the ultimate comfort food that makes you feel like home, no matter where you are. Everyone has a lasagna story, and making this will add another great one.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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.

Caprese Pesto Tarts are a creative twist on classic flavors, combining the freshness of a caprese salad with the coziness of a tart. They’re small in size but big in flavor, perfect for those days when you want something different. These tarts are as pretty to look at as they are delicious to eat.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

If you’re looking to impress, Marry Me Chicken Orzo is your go-to dish. It’s rich and comforting, perfect for a cozy dinner at home. No need to go out to a fancy restaurant when you can whip this up. Trust us, it might just seal the deal on a special night.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Fruit Pizza

A close-up of a vibrant fruit tart topped with slices of kiwi, strawberries, mango, grapes, and blueberries arranged in a decorative pattern.
Fruit Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fruit Pizza is a game-changer for dessert lovers who enjoy a hint of fruit in every bite. The crust holds up like a champ, giving you that perfect foundation. Each slice is a mix of sweetness and a bit of crunch. Perfect for a casual get-together or a solo treat.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Best Lemon Pasta

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

Who knew simplicity could taste this good? Every forkful is a little nudge of bright, tangy goodness. It’s a dish that gets it right without trying too hard. Twist your fork into Best Lemon Pasta when you’re craving something that pops.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

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.

Forget about the store-bought stuff; this takes your sandwich or veggie platter to the next level. Garlic Aioli is rich, creamy, and yes, it packs a garlicky punch. Don’t even think about double-dipping. Use it as a go-to spread or dip.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

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.

It’s the comfort food star you’ll want to cozy up with. Cacio e Pepe is all about threading simplicity with elegance. Each mouthful is a silent nod to Italian tradition. It’s one of those dishes that proves less can be more.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

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.

Imagine sinking your teeth into a piece, and let’s just say it’s the perfect sidekick to any meal. Crispy edges, soft middle, and a buttery garlic taste – it hits all the right notes. Simple yet irresistible, that’s Garlic Bread for you.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Gnocchi

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

Little pillows of joy, that’s one way to sum up the experience. A good bowl will make you want to ditch regular pasta nights. It’s about time you give Gnocchi the spotlight. They’re ready to mingle with a sauce of your choice.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

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.

Talk about a twist on bread that’ll make you forget all about plain rolls. Garlic Knots are the side dish that steals the show. They’re small, but their presence is mighty. Just try stopping at one, I dare you. Once you start pulling them apart, it’s basically game over for your self-control.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Mushroom Risotto

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

Stirring up a pot of this is like a promise of good things to come. Each spoonful is rich and comforting, without being too heavy. It’s all about balance and earthy tones. Mushroom Risotto speaks the language of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Neapolitan Pizza

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

Crafting one of these is like a nod to the old-school pizza artisans. The crust, thin and ever so slightly charred, is the foundation for something beautiful. Simple toppings, done right, make all the difference here. That’s the essence of Neapolitan Pizza.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Italian Dressing

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

This is what you whip up when your salad needs a quick pep talk. Tangy and herby, it clings to every leaf and vegetable. Italian Dressing is the hidden gem of the salad bowl. No frills, just good dressing doing its job.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Ooni Pizza Dough

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

Ready to up your pizza game with a sensational base? Lay the groundwork for your toppings with this canvas. Ooni Pizza Dough brings the heat and the crunch. It’s all about that perfect bake that holds strong without losing that soft, chewy bite. You’ll want to make extra because one pie is never enough.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Italian Sliders

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

When big flavors come in small packages, you know it’s Italian Sliders time. They’re the ultimate mingling munch. Whether it’s game night or a casual hangout, they fit in just fine. Pop one, pop two – they’re bite-sized after all.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Pizza Sauce

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

The secret’s in the sauce, and this one’s no exception. Slather it on thick or thin, however you like. Making Pizza Sauce from scratch? Totally worth it. It’s the base that brings your toppings to life. One good batch, and you’ll wonder why you ever bought the jarred stuff.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

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.

Whisking up this classic is like bringing home a bit of Italy. Every strand of pasta is coated with just the right amount of richness. It’s a nod towards the old ways of cooking. Pasta Carbonara doesn’t mess around when it comes to flavor.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

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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