How I Learned to Love Cooking Again with 15 Italian Recipes

Not gonna lie, I was over cooking—burnt out and running on snacks. Then I tried these 15 Italian recipes and remembered food can be fun again. Nothing complicated, no drama, just food that makes sense. If I can survive a weeknight with these, anyone can.

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

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.

When you’re craving comfort food that hits the spot, Marry Me Chicken Casserole is always a winner. This one-dish meal is a go-to for a quick fix, without the hassle of multiple pots. Whether it’s for a weeknight or a gathering, you can count on this dish to deliver.
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.

A classic like Caesar Salad never gets old. It’s the perfect side to any meal, with a good crunch and a creamy, tangy bite. You can’t go wrong with this one if you need something quick yet fulfilling. Plus, it’s easy to whip up without spending too much time in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Caesar 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.

Homemade Lasagna brings all the feels of a classic Italian meal, perfect for when you want something filling. Layers of pasta, sauce, and cheese come together in a dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser. While it might take a bit of time, the payoff is totally worth it. Serve it for any occasion, and it’s sure to impress.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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.

Who doesn’t love a good bread side? Garlic Knots are simple to make and pack a punch with their garlicky goodness. These little bites are the perfect way to start any meal or snack between courses. It’s a recipe that’s easy to love, with just the right amount of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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 is the perfect mix of textures and tastes. It’s got everything you need for a hearty side or light meal, with enough variety to keep things interesting. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main, it’s sure to disappear fast. It’s one of those dishes that’s super simple but full of character.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Best Lemon Pasta

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

For a quick meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor, Best Lemon Pasta is your go-to. This bright, tangy dish adds a fresh twist to your dinner routine without a lot of fuss. It’s a great way to use basic pantry staples in a way that feels special. Plus, it’s easy to make in under 30 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Ooni Pizza Dough

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

If you’ve got the craving for pizza, Ooni Pizza Dough has you covered. This dough is the foundation for any pizza, giving you a crispy crust with the right chew. It’s easy to stretch, and you can top it however you like. Whether you’re a pizza pro or a first-timer, this dough delivers every time.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

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.

Cacio e Pepe is the kind of dish that’s both simple and elegant. With just a few ingredients, this pasta turns into something truly special. It’s a no-fuss recipe that never fails to hit the mark. When you want a meal that’s fast, comforting, and satisfying, this is it.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

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.

This is a dessert that always brings the right amount of sweetness and creaminess. With its layers of coffee-soaked goodness, it’s the perfect finish to any meal. Tiramisu is both easy to assemble and indulgent to eat. It’s always a hit when you need a dessert that impresses.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

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.

If you’re looking for a hearty pasta dish, Three Cheese Manicotti is your answer. The creamy cheese filling inside tender pasta tubes makes it a comforting meal everyone loves. It’s the kind of dish that’s always a crowd favorite, whether you’re serving it for family or friends. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to put together.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Artichoke Pizza

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

For a twist on the usual, Artichoke Pizza is a great choice. The artichokes give it a unique flavor that’s unexpected but delicious. It’s the perfect pizza for when you want something different yet still fulfilling. Pair it with a simple salad, and you’ve got a great meal in no time.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you need something warm and comforting, Tortellini Soup hits the spot. It’s a hearty bowl of pasta and broth that feels like a hug in a bowl. The simplicity of the ingredients makes it an easy dish to throw together, even on busy days. It’s always fulfilling and never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Italian Dressing

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

Italian Dressing isn’t just for salads – it’s the perfect tangy addition to any dish. This versatile dressing can be used as a marinade or even as a dipping sauce. It’s easy to make and can be adjusted to your liking. Whether on a salad or a sandwich, it always adds a burst of flavor.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

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.

This pizza is a fun, fresh take on a classic dessert. It’s a sweet treat with a light, crispy crust and topped with colorful fruit. Fruit Pizza is the perfect way to end any meal, offering a bit of sweetness without going overboard. It’s simple, and yet everyone always asks for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza

Easy Caprese Salad

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

Easy Caprese Salad is one of those dishes that’s fresh and simple, but always hits the mark. With its mix of creamy cheese, fresh tomatoes, and basil, it’s a salad that feels special. Whether you serve it as a side or a light lunch, it’s quick and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish you can put together in no time and still impress.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

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