I Just Wanted Carbs, But These 19 Italian Recipes Gave Me Joy

ByMandy

Wanting carbs usually means throwing something together and hoping for the best. But these Italian recipes brought more than just something to chew on. They made the whole thing feel less like a quick fix and more like a small win. There’s no mystery to why people keep going back to these kinds of meals.

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Spicy Lasagna Soup is a fun option if you love the layers of a lasagna but want something a little different. It transforms the rich, comforting flavor of lasagna into a bold, warming soup. This recipe brings a punch to traditional dishes without being too complicated.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

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 into chicken recipes with a twist, Marry Me Chicken Orzo is worth a try. It’s a dish where tender chicken meets orzo pasta, blending flavors in a way that’s simple yet fulfilling. Great for a dinner where you want something hearty but easy to prepare. This dish can easily become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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.

Packed with pizza-inspired goodness, Pizza Casserole is an easy upgrade to your weeknight rotation. It’s got the flavors you’d expect from a pizza, but in a layered, cheesy bake. Quick to put together, this dish doesn’t cut corners on flavor. A great one to try if you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Three cooked chicken breasts in a creamy sauce, topped with herbs and sun-dried tomatoes, presented in a round dish.
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Putting a slow-cooker spin on an already-popular dish, Crockpot Marry Me Chicken takes convenience to new levels. It’s a set-it-and-forget-it recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor. The slow cooking really lets the dish come together with rich depth. A must-have for those nights when you need both comfort and convenience.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Artichoke Pizza

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

For a change from classic pizza toppings, Artichoke Pizza brings something unique to the table. It offers a combination of familiar pizza elements with a slightly different twist. Whether for dinner or a casual get-together, this is an easy way to introduce something unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

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.

Marry Me Chicken Casserole combines everything you love about it into a one-pan wonder. It’s great for crowd-pleasing meals that don’t require hours in the kitchen. With easy assembly and satisfying results, it works for both weeknight dinners and small gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Neapolitan Pizza

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

If you’re after a classic pizza experience, Neapolitan Pizza is hard to beat. It’s simple, straightforward, and focuses on just a few key elements for a balanced taste. This is one of those timeless dishes that only needs a little effort to shine. Whether for a light dinner or a gathering, it keeps things authentic and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

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.

Pasta lovers should get to know Marry Me Chicken Pasta, where creamy sauce meets tender chicken over pasta. It’s hearty yet easy to whip up, making it a good choice for both everyday meals and special occasions. The simplicity works well when time is short but expectations are high.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Italian Dressing

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

If you need a solid salad topper, Italian Dressing is a good pick. It’s simple, versatile, and pairs with more than just salads. A homemade version lets you cut out extra fluff and focus on flavors that work. Once you try making it from scratch, you might not go back to store-bought bottles.
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.

Creamy and rich with a touch of flair, Penne Alla Vodka is a dish that balances simplicity and boldness. It’s about elevating pasta into something a bit more exciting without making things complicated. The minimal ingredients make it practical but impressive.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

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.

Whether for dipping, spreading, or drizzling, Garlic Aioli is a small addition that delivers big flavor. It’s easy to make at home and goes well with a variety of dishes. Keep it simple or get creative depending on your needs. This versatile sauce belongs in your kitchen if you’re looking for a dependable pairing item.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish.
Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pasta enthusiasts will appreciate what Marry Me Tortellini brings to the table. It’s a creamy, comforting dish that never tries too hard but delivers every time. Easy to prep and even easier to enjoy, this recipe is one you’ll likely return to. Whether feeding others or just yourself, it’s versatile enough to fit any casual meal plan.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

As a twist on the usual pizza delivery, Pizza Pinwheels delivers flavor in a fun and snack-worthy package. They’re great for finger food at parties or quick snacks when you need something satisfying. A handy option when you’re looking to keep things casual but avoid plain old frozen pizza.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Chicken Alfredo

A plate of bowtie pasta with creamy sauce topped with cooked chicken pieces and garnished with parsley, with a black fork on the side.
Chicken Alfredo. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, Chicken Alfredo fits those cravings perfectly. This dish combines a rich sauce with tender chicken for a meal that’s easy to make. It’s hearty enough to feed the whole family but simple enough for a self-indulgent treat. A reliable dish that feels just as right on busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo

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.

Few side dishes are as universally loved as Garlic Bread, and for good reason. Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it perfectly complements so many meals. It’s quick to make, and even easier to devour. Whether as a side or stand-alone snack, there’s nothing complicated about why this classic works.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Caesar Salad

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

Crisp and bold, Caesar Salad turns simple ingredients into something really flavorful. While it’s a great side dish, it can also stand alone as a quick meal. Its balance of crunch and creaminess works without extra fuss. A tried-and-true recipe that holds its place in any kitchen repertoire.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Pistachio Ice Cream

A glass bowl holds two scoops of pistachio ice cream topped with crushed pistachios, with a waffle cone placed upside down in the bowl.
Pistachio Ice Cream. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When it comes to dessert, Pistachio Ice Cream hits the spot. It steps away from the usual chocolate or vanilla with a flavor that is unique but approachable. This is one of those desserts you’ll reach for when you want something cool and reliable. Perfect as a sweet ending to any meal or for a midday pick-me-up.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Close-up of sliced chicken wraps with lettuce, cheese, and a creamy sauce, next to an open jar of mustard on a wooden surface.
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you want a lunch option that’s quick and easy, Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is ideal. It takes the classic salad and packages it up into something more portable. Quick to throw together without much effort, it’s filling and useful for on-the-go moments. Great for when you need lunch without compromising on taste.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Cheese lovers will find Three Cheese Manicotti to be a rich, filling dish worth trying. Rolled pasta stuffed with cheesy goodness is always a win. It’s perfect when you want something hearty but not overly complicated to prepare. This is comfort food that can adapt for both casual dinners and more special mealtime occasions.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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