These 19 Italian Recipes Made Me Stop Relying on Takeout

Takeout used to be the fallback plan—until 19 Italian recipes made cooking at home way more appealing. They’re quick, low-effort, and somehow feel like an upgrade. Everyone ate without complaints, and the delivery apps haven’t been opened since. Even the usual “let’s just order” crowd got on board.

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

Caesar Salad

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

Crisp greens and a rich dressing make Caesar Salad a classic that never gets old. Each bite has this perfect balance of crunch and creamy. It’s a go-to option for a quick, fresh side. Even non-salad fans tend to love it!
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of creamy lasagna with browned cheese on top and visible layers of pasta, spinach, and sauce.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of pasta, creamy sauce, and hearty bites make Chicken Alfredo Lasagna a hearty meal everyone will love. It’s like combining your two favorite comfort dishes in one. Perfect for a weeknight craving or feeding a group. Delicious and filling without feeling too fancy.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

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.

When you’re in no mood to cook but want something fresh, Antipasto Salad delivers. It’s got a little bit of everything for a meal that feels special yet effortless. Each bite offers a mix of textures and bold flavors. You’ll want seconds before you’re even done with the first plate.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

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.

Getting restaurant-quality at home has never been easier with Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. It captures a perfect balance of richness and tanginess. Skip the reservations and recreate this fan-favorite any day of the week. Home has never tasted so good!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

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.

Dinner seems less stressful when you’ve got Marry Me Chicken Casserole in the oven. It’s hearty and feels like a warm hug in food form. A perfect mix of tender chicken and rich, baked flavors. Your household might just demand this on repeat.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

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.

Craving something indulgent? Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara delivers that creamy, hearty texture you always want. It’s one of those meals that makes you feel like an at-home pro. There’s no need to run to the restaurant for this.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

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.

You don’t need pizza night as a reason to enjoy Garlic Knots. Soft, warm, and full of garlicky flavor, they’re irresistible. Serve them as a snack or alongside your favorite meals. They’re easy to love and hard to stop eating!
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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.

Date nights feel easier with Marry Me Shrimp Pasta on the menu. It mixes seafood and pasta into something simple but bold. Perfect for anyone wanting to try something that feels restaurant-level at home. The dish pairs well with a quiet evening or shared laughter.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Pizza Salad

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

Love pizza flavors but looking for something lighter? Pizza Salad brings all those savory bites but in a fresher, crunchier form. It’s like enjoying pizza in a way that feels totally different. Changing up how you enjoy Italian food never tasted better.
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.

Nothing beats the classic layers of Homemade Lasagna. It’s rich, filling, and makes any dinner feel like a cozy affair. Whether for a big family night or meal prep, this one’s a win. Leftovers taste just as good, maybe even better.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Mushroom Risotto

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

Creamy and full of texture, Mushroom Risotto makes a simple ingredient shine. It’s rich enough to stand on its own as a meal or works as a side for something special. The flavor feels warm without being overwhelming. Takes a short time but feels rewardingly fancy!
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

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.

Ideal for those who like lighter meals, this dish brings balance without losing flavor. Pasta Primavera stays fresh and enjoyable while still delivering a true pasta night feel. It’s quick enough for busy evenings and works well for guests too. The texture mix adds something extra to every bite.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Dessert decisions get easy when Tiramisu is on the table. Layers of fluffy and creamy textures create something that feels indulgent without being overly sweet. It’s perfect after heavy meals or coffee breaks. Once you start eating, it’s hard to stop.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

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.

Comfort food just got better with Marry Me Tortellini. This dish combines rich sauce with stuffed pasta for something deeply satisfying. Make it for a lazy dinner or to impress guests without stressing. It might become your new weeknight secret weapon.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

Easy Caprese Salad

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

Grab a simple dish like Easy Caprese Salad when you’re craving something quick and fresh. It’s light but packed with a surprising punch of flavor. Perfect for picnics, sides, or even casual lunch. You’d be surprised how such simple ingredients can work magic together.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

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.

An earthy flavor takes center stage with Morel Mushroom Pasta. It’s an ideal choice when you want something unique yet simple. This dish can quickly turn into a favorite for anyone looking to switch up classic pasta meals. A great one for your recipe rotation.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

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.

Perfect for when snacks need something a little extra, these are easy to enjoy and quick to make. Caprese Pesto Tarts bring familiar flavors into a handheld form that works for any casual setting. Their small size makes them great for sharing or pairing with something light. A no-fuss option for both snacks and starters.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

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.

Dessert feels extra special when Pistachio Ice Cream is part of it. It’s creamy, cold, and filled with unique yet familiar flavor. A great treat in any weather as a post-meal craving breaker. You may not go back to basic flavors after trying this.
Get the Recipe: Pistachio Ice Cream

Penne Alla Vodka

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

When you’re looking for something sophisticated yet simple, Penne Alla Vodka checks both boxes. The touch of richness combined with pasta makes it a hit. Whether on a casual night or date, this works perfectly. Leftovers make for an exciting next-day lunch.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

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