12 Easy-to-Make Italian Dinner Recipes

These 12 easy-to-make recipes bring the rich, bold flavors of Italy straight to your table. From creamy pasta dishes to fresh salads, there’s a dish for every craving.

These recipes are quick to prepare and packed with flavor, making them ideal for all your mealtime needs.

One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta

A pan of spaghetti mixed with mushrooms, spinach, and garnished with chopped parsley. — Image Credit: Babaganosh.

Would you like to save this?

We'll email this post to you, so you can come back to it later!

This creamy mushroom pasta combines earthy mushrooms, tender pasta, and a luscious sauce—all in just one pot! It’s a comforting meal that’s simple to prepare and perfect for any time of the week.

To learn more: One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta.

Antipasto Chopped Salad

A bowl of salad with romaine lettuce, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke, salami, cheese, and diced peppers. — Image Credit: Mamas on a Budget.

Packed with crisp veggies, tangy olives, savory meats, and creamy cheese, this antipasto salad is a vibrant dish that embraces Mediterranean flavors. Toss it all in a zesty vinaigrette for a quick and refreshing option.

To learn more: Antipasto Chopped Salad.

Easy Tabouli Pasta Salad

A bowl of pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, greens, and herbs. Spoon on the side. — Image Credit: Flavour and Savour

This light and refreshing Tabouli Pasta Salad blends fresh herbs, juicy tomatoes, and tender pasta with a zesty dressing. It’s a healthy, flavorful dish you can whip up in minutes!

To learn more: Easy Tabouli Pasta Salad.

Baked Penne With Pumpkin Cream Sauce

A plate of creamy pasta with peas and a garnish, accompanied by mixed greens, and a gold fork on the side. — Image Credit: Cupcakes & Kale Chips.

This baked penne transforms creamy pumpkin into the heart of a flavorful sauce, paired perfectly with al dente pasta. Warm, hearty, and satisfying—this recipe is an autumn-inspired classic!

To learn more: Baked Penne With Pumpkin Cream Sauce.

Calamarata Pasta

Bowl of pasta with thick sauce, garnished with herbs, on a wooden table with a checkered napkin. — Image Credit: Marcellina In Cucina.

Named after its unique ring-shaped pasta resembling calamari, this Calamarata dish shines when paired with rich tomato sauces or fresh seafood. A traditional Southern Italian favorite you’ll savor.

To learn more: Calamarata Pasta.

Caprese Pasta

A bowl of rigatoni pasta topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil. Surrounded by fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and a small dish of herbs on a white background. — Image Credit: Cup of Flour.

Caprese Pasta brings together sweet, ripe tomatoes, fragrant basil, and creamy mozzarella. This easy recipe delivers the flavors of a classic Caprese salad in comforting pasta form.

To learn more: Caprese Pasta.

Cavolo Nero Pasta

Bowl of spaghetti with kale, olives, and nuts on a white table. Fork in bowl, grated cheese on side, and scattered ingredients nearby. — Image Credit: Happy Veggie Kitchen.

Cavolo Nero, also known as Tuscan kale, is the star of this simple dish. Tossed with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan, this recipe is a perfect balance of healthy and delicious.

To learn more: Cavolo Nero Pasta.

Orzo Pesto Salad

A plate of orzo pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, avocado, and basil. — Image Credit: Kelly Neil.

This Orzo Pesto Salad mixes tender orzo with fresh veggies and a vibrant basil pesto. It’s a versatile dish that works as a light lunch or a flavorful side for larger meals.

To learn more: Orzo Pesto Salad.

Lemon Basil Pasta

A plate of spaghetti with grilled chicken, spinach, and grated parmesan cheese. Bowls of lemon wedges and additional parmesan are nearby, with basil leaves on the side. — Image Credit: In the Kitch.

Lemon Basil Pasta combines tangy lemon, fresh basil, and a creamy sauce to create a bright and delightful meal. It’s quick to make and best enjoyed with a side of crispy garlic bread.

To learn more: Lemon Basil Pasta.

One Pot Gnocchi Caprese

Baked gnocchi in a round dish with melted cheese, tomatoes, and basil on a gray towel. Herbs scattered around. — Image Credit: Happy Veggie Kitchen.

Soft gnocchi, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and melty mozzarella come together in this one-pot wonder. It’s a hassle-free meal with all the makings of classic Italian comfort food.

To learn more: One Pot Gnocchi Caprese.

Cavatappi Pasta

A bowl of pasta with pesto, mushrooms, and tomatoes topped with grated cheese. Nearby are bowls of uncooked pasta, grated cheese, and salt. A green napkin is beside the bowl. — Image Credit: I Heart Vegetables.

With its corkscrew shape and ridges, cavatappi is ideal for rich, hearty sauces or creamy casseroles. Whether baked or tossed in a simple pesto, it’s a pasta that always delivers bold flavor.

To learn more: Cavatappi Pasta.

Eggplant Rollatini

Baked eggplant parmesan in a white casserole dish, topped with melted cheese and sprinkled with chopped herbs. — Image Credit: No Sugar No Flour Recipes.

This classic Italian dish features tender eggplant slices filled with creamy ricotta, baked with marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese. A hearty vegetarian option that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.

To learn more: Eggplant Rollatini.

Connect With Me