35+ Classic Italian Recipes (2024)

These classic Italian recipes, from margarita pizza to lasagna, bring the unique taste of Italy onto your plate.

Most people have a couple of favorite Italian food recipes. Whether you love spaghetti and meatballs or cheesy lasagna, Italian cuisine has something for everyone. Something that often gets ignored in Italian food is the delicious Italian soups that grandmothers all over Italy have been making for hundreds of years.

Italian cuisine is well-known across the globe and consists of much more than simply pasta dishes.

Italy, the land of culture, history, and mouthwatering cuisine, has long been a favorite destination for food enthusiasts. Its recipes are characterized by simplicity and quality, often using only a few key ingredients that blend together harmoniously to create vibrant, flavorful dishes. For centuries, Italian food has been a staple of culinary arts worldwide, adding a touch of comfort and satisfaction to meals shared with family and friends.

Tracing its roots back to the Roman Empire, Italian cuisine offers a diverse range of dishes designed to cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. With each region characterized by its own culinary traditions and locally sourced ingredients, Italian cuisine is as diverse as its landscape. From homemade pasta and seafood dishes found in coastal towns, to hearty meat-based meals from the mountainous areas, there’s an Italian dish just waiting for you to discover.

Cooking these tasty Italian meals will make you feel as if your Italian mother is right there with you in the kitchen!

With these simple Italian dishes, you’re sure to find something everyone will like.

Source: crunchtimekitchen.com

Beef Braciole with Creamy Polenta

This is the perfect comfort food. The beef is sliced thin, stuffed, and then added to a roulade with tomato sauce.

You can make it with different cuts of beef, but a round roast seems to work best.

Definitely a must try.

Cheese Manicotti Skillet

This easy recipe is easily one of my new favorites. Reminds me of Italian night in my home as a child. Great taste and super quick to make. Stuffed shells, delicious tomato sauce. What’s not to love?

Make sure you take a look! You can even substitute other ingredients for a healthier option without sacrificing taste.

Source: cookieandkate.com

1. Caponata

This classic caponata will have you falling in love with the mix of salty, sweet, and sour flavors.

Brown the celery and onion before you add the capers and olives as this adds a lot of flavor.

The vinegar is what gives this meal its somewhat sour taste.

The key here is to let it rest for a few minutes to enable the flavors to blend. Serve with crunchy breadsticks.

Source: pinchofyum.com

2. Sun-Dried Tomato and Chicken Florentine Pasta

This creamy Florentine pasta dish with chicken is ideal for any meal, whether served hot as a supper or cold as a picnic lunch.

The Parmesan sauce forms the base of the recipe, with added mozzarella. Spinach and bell peppers make it fresh and colorful.

This whole dinner can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. Add a juicy steak instead of chicken for a twist!

Source: 3italiansisters.com

3. Pasta fa*gioli al Forno

With this dish, you can gather everyone around the dinner table. It translates as “beans with baked pasta” and is loaded with zesty tomato sauce and creamy cheese.

This delicious Italian pasta recipe has a variety of savory ingredients such as tomatoes, red pepper flakes, basil leaves, Italian sausage, and plenty of dried oregano.

It also contains two types of cheese!

Brown the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic before adding the rest of the ingredients. Add the additional cheese and bake in the oven. Serve with crusty bread.

Source: mygourmetconnection.com

4. Bellini

This easy and delicious bellini dish will elevate your next brunch.

When I say this drink is easy, I really mean it. Prosecco and peaches are the only ingredients. This results in a perfectly fresh and sparkling bellini.

Peel your peaches before removing the pit, and then puree them until smooth.

Chill the purée for 30 minutes in the refrigerator as you want them to be cold.

2 ounces purée in a champagne flute, topped with cold prosecco, and serve! So easy!

Source: taste.com.au

6. Pizzette with Prawns

Yes, your right pizzette sounds like a little pizza, and that’s what they are — little pizzas.

These little delights are perfect finger food or as an appetizer at a celebration or a get-together with your friends.

Try ready-made pizza dough to make this dish a breeze to prepare. Cheeses, tomatoes, and Parmesan could be sprinkled on top of the mini-dough circles.

Finish with basil and a sprinkle of olive oil after baking. Experiment with different toppings to discover your favorite combo. This recipe adds spice for a little kick and fresh prawns.

Source: littlesugarsnaps.com

7. Italian Hot Chocolate

As we said earlier, Italian food recipes are much more than pizzas and pasta.

This thick and creamy Italian hot chocolate will transport you to Italy in no time.

Get the idea of sipping instant hot chocolate out of your head.

This hot chocolate recipe is delicious and has no resemblance to the powdered mix.

This drink gets its rich taste from real dark chocolate and by adding whole milk and sugar you can turn it into a sweet, rich, and thick delight.

Source: garlicmatters.com

8. Italian Tomato Sauce

The foundation of Italian cuisine is a thick and delicious Italian tomato sauce. This is a recipe that will be passed down through the family.

A delicious Italian tomato sauce is straightforward. Although there aren’t many ingredients, simmering this sauce slowly and on a low heat enables all the tastes to blend together.

The oregano, mint leaves, and basil provide a light and fresh flavor to the sauce, while the onion, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil balance the acidity within the tomatoes.

Source: creationsbykara.com

9. Strawberry Nutella Pizza

You’ll never have to pick between pizza and dessert with this strawberry Nutella pizza!

The Nutella’s creamy and nutty taste complements the sweet and luscious strawberries wonderfully. Add some chopped almonds for crunch.

To create a dessert pizza, cook your dough fully and allow it to cool slightly before adding your toppings.

If Nutella and strawberries aren’t your thing, experiment with other toppings. Just a few examples are bananas, peanut butter, dark chocolate chips, and blueberries.

Source:spaceshipsandlaserbeams.com

10. Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

After preparing this imitation Olive Garden Alfredo sauce, you’ll never need to go back to Olive Garden.

This sauce isn’t difficult to make and takes just a few minutes to prepare.

Heavy cream, garlic, butter, and Parmesan cheese are the sole ingredients. With a traditional Alfredo sauce, little is better than lots.

Make sure your butter and cream mixture is boiling before adding the cheese in tiny portions for the smoothest sauce. It will melt faster and not lump together.

Source: krollskorner.com

11. Mushroom Risotto with Rosemary

Risotto is regarded as a challenging meal to prepare. Try this delectable rosemary and mushroom risotto to see how easy it can be.

The secret to preparing risotto is to only use warm broth, which allows the rice to cook uniformly. You don’t want to hurry through this dinner, believe me!

This risotto is seasoned with mustard, which adds delicious zing.

The star of the show, though, has to be the fragrant rosemary. Prepare to wow your visitors!

Source: cookstr.com

12. Florentine Steak

“Bistecca alla Fiorentina” is another name for Florentine steak. It’s steak, sliced thickly that’s been lightly seasoned and is meant to be shared with friends.

This dish calls for a hefty porterhouse steak. Because the only seasoning is olive oil, pepper, and salt, you’ll want to choose a high-quality cut of beef.

Serve the finished steak with roast potatoes or try a lovely Italian salad.

Source: easilycook.com

13. Italian Meatballs

Everyone should have a tried-and-true recipe for Italian meatballs to hand. These meatballs are delicious and juicy. They’re an excellent complement to a variety of dishes!

The secret to achieving that rich, nuanced taste is to use three distinct kinds of meat. For best results use beef, some ground pork, and finally sausage, Italian style.

I have one more technique for you, which is known as a panada.

A panada is a thick paste made by getting some milk and adding bread crumbs to it. This is essential for preventing your meatballs from being too dry.

Source: gozney.com

14. Neapolitan Pizza

Neapolitan pizza was born in Naples and is the only location where you get to eat the genuine thing. Since we won’t be able to travel on a last-minute vacation, this dish is just as good!

Handmade dough is essential for achieving that genuine crust. Don’t worry, it’s very simple.

The essence of Neapolitan pizza is simplicity. The sauce is made with canned tomatoes and is topped with fresh mozzarella and plenty of basil leaves. That’s it, simple and yet your pizza night has just improved!

Source: pauladeen.com

15. Sausage Arugula Pizza

This crispy and delectable sausage arugula pizza is going to become a favorite of the family.

Arugula on pizza may seem strange, but it balances the fat of the sausage wonderfully. The crisp and nutty arugula produces an ideal combo.

You’ll never look at basic pepperoni pizza the same once you finish this pizza off with mozzarella and tomato sauce.

Use homemade dough if possible, or you can always buy it from a store for ease. With each delicious slice, you’ll love it more.

Source: thecozyapron.com

16. Calzones

I know it’s a controversial viewpoint, but I always prefer a calzone that’s dripping with cheese to a pizza slice.

After tasting this dish for yourself, I think you will agree with me!

These compact calzone are excellent for taking with you for lunch and much superior to anything you can get from a fast-food place. Make a large quantity and freeze it for later use.

You may save time by using store-bought pizza dough, but you can also create your own.

Fill with your favorite pizza toppings, such as sauce, basil, mozzarella, and peppers.

Source: hungryhappyhealty.com

17.Caprese Chicken

This Caprese Chicken is bursting with flavor thanks to the melted cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and a subtly sweet balsamic sauce.

While this meal seems to be elegant, you won’t believe how simple it is to prepare.

First, cook the chicken until it’s beautifully browned but juicy.

Pile on the cheese slices and sun-dried tomatoes. Place in your oven for approximately 10 minutes.

Remember, finish with a generous amount of your balsamic reduction.

Source: dinneratthezoo.com

18. Stuffed Pasta Shells

Filled pasta shells are a fun and tasty dinner that will please even the fussiest eater.

Shell-shaped pasta is a foolproof method to encourage the kids to eat. But it’s also full of rich sauce and creamy cheese, enough for the grownups as well!

After cooking the shells, fill with a ricotta cheese and Parmesan combination, then top with delicious meat sauce.

Before placing them in the oven, sprinkle Mozzarella cheese on top. Prepare yourself for a peaceful supper!

Source: olivemagazine.com

19. Tuscan Seafood Stew

Cacciucco is another name for Tuscan fish stew. There are usually five kinds of seafood in it, one for each of the c’s in the name.

But, it’s entirely up to you whatever seafood you add!

With ingredients like chopped parsley, crushed garlic, sage leaves, and red wine vinegar, this meal is well-seasoned.

The addition of red pepper flakes to this delicious stew adds just the right amount of spice.

To soak up the delicious liquid, serve your stew over crusty bread or croutons.

Source: cravingsbychrissyteigan.com

20. Pasta Alla Norma

Pasta Alla Norma is a traditional Sicilian meal that combines eggplant, delicious marinara, and lots of fresh basil.

Traditionally, fried eggplant is used, but here, roasted eggplant is used in its place.

This not only makes the meal seem lighter, but it also makes it simpler to prepare. That’s a win-win situation if you ask me!

Because there aren’t many ingredients required to create this easy meal, you can have it on the table very quickly.

Source: thefoodcharlatan.com

21.Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Your whole family will fall in love with a traditional Italian dish like chicken Parmesan.

Use a meat tenderizer to flatten down your chicken breasts until they are extremely thin. Make sure they’re all the same size for classic chicken Parmesan.

Get yourself three trays at the breading station: the first has flour, the second cream and eggs, and finally your breadcrumbs.

Fry the chicken breast and then begin layering it in the pan.

Begin with marinara sauce, then add chicken and additional marinara sauce before topping with a generous quantity of mozzarella cheese.

22. Italian Salad

This Italian salad goes well with your favorite pasta meal. Make it on its own for a fast and healthy lunch.

The secret to this salad’s success is the homemade dressing. And it’s so simple!

Combine fresh basil, oregano, chopped parsley, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, red wine vinegar, and honey in a food processor. That’s all there is to it!

Romaine lettuce, tomato, carrot, black and green olives, and bell peppers are some delicious veggie choices. Add feta cheese for a change, and you’ve got a tasty lunch.

Source: kristinekitchenblog.com

23. Lasagna

The greatest comfort meal in the world is a simple yet delicious lasagna. This recipe turns classic lasagna into a quick dinner that you can prepare even on a hectic night.

Lightly cook the lasagna noodles but use a shop-bought marinara sauce. This lasagna is all about keeping things simple but still retaining those wonderful tastes.

Lasagna noodles, meat sauce, mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan will be your layers, then repeat the layers again. Bake in the oven and sit down and enjoy with a glass of Italian red!

Source: giadzy.com

24. Muffuletta

Muffuletta may become your new favorite if you’ve never had it before. This sandwich is stacked high with layers of delicious meat and vegetables.

The fresh olive salad is the secret to a traditional muffuletta sandwich.

In a food processor, combine peppers, capers, olives, garlic, giardiniera, and chopped parsley.

Spread the resulting mix on both sides of the bread.

The capicola, mortadella, provolone, and soppressata will then be piled on top. The layers are then repeated.

Source: saltandlavender.com

25. Tuscan Chicken

This one-pan Tuscan chicken is ideal for hectic weeknights. It’s creamy, tasty, and it’s done in less than 30 minutes.

While the components are straightforward, the taste is anything but simple!

Topped with an Alfredo sauce made from, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic cloves, Italian spices, and of course, cheese.

Coat the browned chicken with the thick sauce and leave to simmer. The chicken will absorb all the strong flavors.

It’s delicious as a stand-alone recipe, but it’s also delicious with spaghetti.

Source: sallysbakingaddiction.com

25. Stromboli

If you have some leftover pizza dough, have a go at making your own stromboli. Fill it with meats like ham, pepperoni, salami, and add plenty of mozzarella cheese.

Roll it up and bake it and then slice it up for that classic stromboli look.

Source: hh-hm.com

26. Cappuccino

Every spectacular dinner party concludes with an excellent discussion and a nice, frothy coffee.

It is not difficult to create a creamy cappuccino. You just need a mill, water, and coffee. A cappuccino maker is also useful for completing all the tedious tasks!

The secret to a perfect cappuccino is foamy milk. It’s a great way to kick off the morning or finish off the evening.

Source: inspiredtaste.net

27. Easy Rosemary Garlic Focaccia Bread

Focaccia bread has a delicious crispy outside, and the inside is soft, warm, and chewy. It’s seasoned with fresh garlic, rosemary, olive oil, sugar, salt, and pepper. And making it from scratch is super easy and takes next to no time.

Source: jessicagavin.com

28. Italian Pasta Salad

This recipe for Italian pasta salad is the perfect appetizer or side dish that’s loaded with mozzarella cheese, salami, fresh veggies and tossed in a flavorfully tangy herb vinaigrette. You create a large batch for your next large event or save some to have as a healthy lunch throughout the week.

Source: finecooking.com

29. Osso Buco

Here’s a classic Northern Italian recipe for braised veal is a fantastic make-ahead dish that still tastes incredible the next day. This dish has a savory tomato sauce that’s perfectly seasoned with delicious veggies and spices. It also pairs well with savory saffron Risotto alla Milanese and roasted asparagus.

Source: cookingclassy.com

30. Creamy Garlic Salmon

This flavorful, elegant dish may look fancy, but it’s actually one of the easiest Italian meals you can make. It comes together so fast, yet it looks like something prepared by a world-class chef when plated! Plus, cooking in a skillet gives you those crispy brown edges that take this meal to the next level.

Source: lemontreedwelling.com

31. Whipped Ricotta Dip

Whipped ricotta is a fantastic appetizer that’s made using four simple ingredients. This savory, creamy dip is wonderful with your favorite veggies, crackers, or bread. Plus, you can whip up a batch of this incredible dip in only five minutes! It’s also a great spread to add to sandwiches.

Source: dinneratthezoo.com

32. Tomato and Mozzarella Caprese Salad

Caprese Salad is a light, simple, and very flavorful Italian salad you can make in minutes. This fun take uses juicy, sweet halved cherry tomatoes and halved mozzarella balls, diced red onion, herbs, and a light herb and garlic dressing to create a truly crave-worthy salad your guests will devour.

Source: thefeedfeed.com

33. Creamy Chicken Roulade with Spinach and Mushrooms

Upgrade your plain boring chicken breasts by stuffing them with a delicious blend of crisp spinach and savory sautéed mushrooms. This is all rolled into a cylinder shape and located in a brown, crispy breaded layer, and finally topped with a creamy Alfredo sauce.

Source: simplyrecipes.com

34. Turkey Tetrazzini with Spinach

If you’re looking for a good way to use up those turkey leftovers, try this recipe for Turkey Tetrazzini. It’s a hearty casserole that uses a creamy, flavorful white sauce with egg noodles and many veggies such as peas and mushrooms.

Source: aheadofthyme.com

35. Classic Roman Herbed Potato Pizza

Another delicious Italian dish that’s super easy to make is this Roman herbed potato pizza made with a thin and crispy crust, layered thin slices of potatoes seasoned with herbs and olive oil, and baked to golden perfection.