I Tested A Lot—These Are The 29 Italian Recipes Worth Keeping

Tried a ridiculous number of Italian meals so you don’t have to, and only 29 passed the “worth repeating” test. They work on chaotic weeknights, lazy Sundays, and everything in between. Basically, they’ve survived picky eaters, fridge raids, and people asking for seconds with suspiciously specific enthusiasm.

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

This casserole combines tender chicken layered with creamy textures that hold everything together nicely. It’s great for a quick meal that feels more special than most. Marry Me Chicken Casserole is popular for its simple preparation and comforting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Garlic Knots

Soft and chewy bread pulls apart effortlessly, making it a great addition to any meal. Garlic Knots are perfect for serving alongside sauces or soups. They work just as well as a stand-alone snack when you’re craving something warm and savory. You’ll love how easy it is to make this staple that lots of people enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Best Lemon Pasta

Light pasta that balances fresh flavors with creamy undertones is what makes this dish stand out. Best Lemon Pasta is perfect for when you want something different but quick. It pairs simplicity with bold flavors that aren’t overwhelming. Great for a lunch or dinner that feels light and filling simultaneously.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Caesar Salad

A well-loved classic that combines crunchy textures with rich flavors in every bite. Caesar Salad is excellent for meals or even as the main dish when dressed up slightly. The standout here is how all the elements come together effortlessly. It’s ideal for offering something fresh but still filling and true to its origin.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Marry Me Tortellini

Filling pasta brings together a mix of creamy richness and subtle warmth that keeps you coming back for more. Marry Me Tortellini can be served as a comforting main course or a side. It’s great for those days you want a hearty meal without much hassle. Perfect to share or enjoy solo after a busy day.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Mushroom Risotto

This smooth and rich rice dish mixes savory elements that feel well-rounded and homey. Mushroom Risotto is a crowd-pleaser that works both as a side or centerpiece. The soft texture and deep, earthy flavors give it a distinctive edge.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Homemade Lasagna

Layers of pasta stacked with flavors that blend together seamlessly for a filling dish. Homemade Lasagna brings comfort and tradition to the table without much complication. It’s a classic that’s easy to love, whether served fresh or reheated later. You’ll appreciate how consistent and reliable this recipe feels every time.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Antipasto Salad

This cold salad is filled with bold flavors that complement each other well. Antipasto Salad is perfect as an appetizer or light meal, mixing crunchy and soft textures. It’s quick to organize and feels fresh without being boring. You’ll enjoy how versatile this is for gatherings or solo lunches alike.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Garlic Aioli

Smooth and rich dipping sauce adds depth to whatever you pair it with. Garlic Aioli works as an excellent addition to sandwiches, burgers, or fried snacks. It’s simple yet highly adaptable, making it a kitchen staple. Keep some on hand whenever you want that extra hit of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Baked spaghetti with layers of creamy filling that makes each bite comforting and filling. Million Dollar Spaghetti earns its name through its unique combo of pasta and cheesy goodness. It’s easy to throw together and works for family dinners or meal prep. Great for feeding groups or simply enjoying leftovers the next day.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Italian Dressing

A well-balanced dressing that complements both salads and marinades. Italian Dressing adds flavor without being overpowering, making it highly versatile. It works great beyond just greens and can add extra depth to your other dishes. It’s simple yet useful for everyday meals.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Pizza Casserole

Baked layers that mix everything people love about pizza, but in casserole form. Pizza Casserole is great for group meals or easy dinners that make everyone happy. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for later. You’ll find it’s a quick way to enjoy those classic pizza flavors.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Tiramisu

Sweet layered dessert with creamy textures and subtle richness. Tiramisu is ideal for ending a good meal on a high note and works at casual or formal occasions. It requires minimal assembly and delivers consistent, pleasing flavors that everyone loves. Great as a beautiful treat or centerpiece for dessert.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Artichoke Pizza

Unique topping brings a different angle to the usual pizza flavors. Artichoke Pizza offers an earthy tone that layers perfectly with creamy and crisp textures. It’s a straightforward recipe that suits those looking to change up their pizza routine. Easy to enjoy as a main but works well in slices for sharing too.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Tuscan Pasta

This hearty meal blends soft pasta textures with warm flavors in each forkful. Tuscan Pasta is good for a quick dinner that feels fulfilling without too much complexity. Its combination of simple elements makes it both comforting and flavorful. You’ll appreciate how it fits into most dinner plans and meal ideas.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Easy Caprese Salad

A fresh mix of tender and crisp components brought together with ease. Easy Caprese Salad offers a quick solution for balancing flavors during meals. It’s light yet holds its own as a side dish or appetizer. Perfect for when you want something that feels polished but keeps prep time short.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Gnocchi

Soft and chewy pasta pieces that hold together perfectly in any sauce you pick. Gnocchi is a versatile dish that’s filling without being complex or time-consuming. You’ll love how adaptable these little bites are for different meals. Great to have on hand for experimenting or simple dinners.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Neapolitan Ice Cream

Three flavors side by side make for both variety and fun in every scoop. Neapolitan Ice Cream is simple to enjoy and works with dessert toppings or solo. It’s a dessert many people love for each layer’s unique taste. Easy to serve at parties or hold in the freezer for whatever pops up.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Ice Cream

Minestrone Soup

A warm and hearty soup that combines a variety of flavors and textures in one bowl. Minestrone Soup works well for lunches or dinners where you want a lighter option. It’s simple to prepare while still giving you something filling and balanced. Great as a starter but works fine as a standalone meal too.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Italian Sliders

Small sandwiches packed with flavor, making them great for casual meals or snacks. Italian Sliders are easy to assemble and perfect for gatherings or quick bites. They combine soft bites and bold elements that mesh well together. You’ll keep reaching for more without overthinking the prep time.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders

Tortellini Soup

Warm soup filled with soft bites that turn simple ingredients into something hearty. Tortellini Soup is a great choice for cold nights or as a filling starter. Its flavors and textures are comforting without being heavy. You’ll see why this is often a go-to recipe for crowds or weekly meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Pizza Sauce

Versatile red sauce that’s perfect for topping your favorite crust or creating unique dishes. Pizza Sauce can be used in casseroles, pasta, or even as a dip. It’s quick to make and works as a helpful base for experimenting in the kitchen. Great for those who enjoy a homemade touch without needing extra prep.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Ravioli Casserole

A baked dish that brings out bold flavors in each ravioli without much hassle. Ravioli Casserole works as a filling dinner idea or for feeding a group easily. The baked touch adds a layer of richness to the pasta that’s hard to beat. You’ll love how practical and tasty this meal option can be.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Veggie Pizza

A lighter take that combines fresh toppings with crispy bases for a new kind of pizza option. Veggie Pizza is quick to prep and offers something different from traditional recipes. Ideal for casual dinners or lunches when you want something simple and fresh. Great for customizing to fit what you have on hand.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A warm dish that blends tender chicken with soft pasta grains in one meal. Marry Me Chicken Orzo is perfect for dinner plans that feel complete without extra effort. It combines softness with subtle flavors in a way that’s comforting. Works well for family meals or solo dinners when you want something filling.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Garlic Bread

Crisp and soft bread with a strong flavor profile that fits any meal type. Garlic Bread works as an easy-to-serve side dish that pairs quickly with soups or pasta. You’ll love the simplicity of its assembly and its universal appeal. Perfect for serving at gatherings or just adding variety to daily meals.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Italian Pasta with Salami

Pasta packed with bold flavors coming from slices of salami mixed throughout. Italian Pasta with Salami is great for dinner ideas where you don’t want something boring. The balance between warm and savory elements is what makes this one stand out. Ideal for quick meals or adding variety to your weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Fruit Pizza

A dessert version that combines sweetness and freshness in each serving. Fruit Pizza is fun and quick to arrange, perfect for parties or casual get-togethers. You’ll love how refreshing it feels compared to heavier dessert options. It’s a great choice for when you want to mix something classic with new ideas.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Cacio e Pepe

A pasta dish that sticks to simplicity while letting strong flavors shine in every bite. Cacio e Pepe has minimal ingredients but packs a punch with its texture and taste. Perfect for relaxed dinner ideas without sacrificing fullness. You’ll love how straightforward yet enjoyable this recipe can be.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe