20 Delicious Italian Recipes You Can Make at Home

Craving the flavors of Italy? This collection of 20 Italian recipes brings together comforting classics, festive dishes, and creative twists that are perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. From hearty pastas and savory soups to sweet treats and traditional breads, each recipe is approachable and full of authentic Italian flavor. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy meal at home, these dishes will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.

Italian Steak

This steak is seasoned with Italian herbs and sometimes marinated for extra flavor. It is seared or grilled to create a flavorful crust. The meat stays tender and juicy when cooked to the right temperature. It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or pasta.
Get the Recipe: Italian Steak

Stracotto – Italian Pot Roast

Stracotto is a slow braised beef roast in aromatic vegetables, wine, and herbs. The long cooking time creates tender, pull-apart meat. The sauce thickens naturally into a rich, flavorful gravy. It is ideal served with mashed potatoes or polenta.
Get the Recipe: Stracotto – Italian Pot Roast

Italian Fig Christmas Cookies – Cucidati

These cookies are filled with a sweet fig and nut mixture. Dough is rolled around the filling and baked until golden. Spices like cinnamon and cloves add warmth. A drizzle of icing or sprinkle of powdered sugar finishes the festive treat.
Get the Recipe: Italian Fig Christmas Cookies – Cucidati

Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

This classic soup features tiny meatballs, tender pasta, and greens in a flavorful broth. It is hearty but light enough as a starter. Fresh herbs enhance the aroma and flavor. It’s a comforting dish perfect for family meals.
Get the Recipe: Easy Italian Wedding Soup Recipe

Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake

Soft cake layers are infused with lemon zest and folded with ricotta cheese. The crumb is tender and moist. A light glaze or dusting of powdered sugar adds sweetness. Each slice is fragrant and slightly tangy.
Get the Recipe: Italian Lemon Ricotta Cake

Italian Drunken Noodles

This stir-fried noodle dish combines wide rice noodles with vegetables, protein, and a savory sauce. Garlic, chili, and soy add depth of flavor. The noodles are tender with a slight chew. It’s quick to prepare for a satisfying weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Italian Drunken Noodles

Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

These doughnuts are soft, pillowy, and filled with pastry cream or jam. They are fried until golden and coated in sugar. Each bite is sweet and indulgent. Perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Get the Recipe: Bomboloni – Italian Doughnuts

Italian Sausage Pasta

Sliced Italian sausage is cooked with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs. Tossed with pasta, it creates a comforting one-pot meal. The sauce clings to every noodle for full flavor. A sprinkle of Parmesan completes the dish.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Pasta

Fried Zucchini Sticks (Carrabba’s Italian Grill Copycat!)

Zucchini sticks are coated in a seasoned breadcrumb mixture and fried until crisp. They are golden brown with a tender inside. A dipping sauce like marinara or aioli complements the flavor. A simple snack or appetizer with Italian flair.
Get the Recipe: Fried Zucchini Sticks (Carrabba’s Italian Grill Copycat!)

Simple Ribollita Italian Bean Soup

Ribollita is a thick vegetable and bean soup often made with leftover bread. Kale, cabbage, and beans create a hearty base. Olive oil adds richness and depth. The soup is warming, flavorful, and rustic.
Get the Recipe: Simple Ribollita Italian Bean Soup

Hot Italian Sliders

Mini sandwiches are filled with Italian cold cuts, cheese, and spicy peppers. They are baked with butter and seasonings for a gooey, savory treat. Perfect for parties or game day snacks. Each slider is packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Hot Italian Sliders

Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Italian sausage is cooked and simmered with vegetables in a creamy broth. Pasta or rice can be added for extra heartiness. Fresh herbs and seasoning enhance the flavor. The soup is rich, comforting, and easy to serve.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Italian Sausage Soup

Italian Black Bean Meatballs

These vegetarian meatballs combine black beans with Italian herbs and breadcrumbs. They bake or pan fry until firm on the outside. Tomato sauce or marinara adds flavor and moisture. Great as an appetizer, pasta topping, or sandwich filling.
Get the Recipe: Italian Black Bean Meatballs

Italian Grinder

A classic sandwich filled with Italian cold cuts, cheeses, lettuce, and tomatoes. Dressing or olive oil adds moisture and flavor. The bread is often soft yet slightly chewy. Perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.
Get the Recipe: Italian Grinder

Italian Eggplant Parmigiana

Layers of breaded fried eggplant are baked with marinara sauce and cheese. The cheese melts into a bubbly golden topping. Each slice is rich, hearty, and flavorful. It’s a comforting vegetarian main dish.
Get the Recipe: Italian Eggplant Parmigiana

Smoked Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoncini Dressing

Cooked pasta is tossed with smoked vegetables, cheese, and a tangy pepperoncini dressing. The salad is flavorful with a balance of smoky, tangy, and savory notes. It can be served cold or at room temperature. Ideal for potlucks or picnics.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Italian Pasta Salad with Pepperoncini Dressing

Italian Penne Rosa Pasta

Penne pasta is cooked in a creamy tomato-based sauce with garlic, herbs, and sometimes protein. The sauce clings to the pasta for full flavor. Parmesan cheese adds richness and depth. It’s a simple yet elegant pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Italian Penne Rosa Pasta

The Best Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs

Tiny chicken meatballs float in a light, flavorful broth with pasta and greens. Fresh herbs bring aroma and brightness. The soup is hearty but delicate. Each spoonful combines tender meatballs, tender pasta, and greens.
Get the Recipe: The Best Italian Wedding Soup with Chicken Meatballs

Chopped Italian Sandwich

Layers of Italian meats, cheeses, and vegetables are chopped together and served on a hearty roll. Dressing or oil adds flavor and moisture. It’s easy to customize with favorite ingredients. Perfect for lunches or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chopped Italian Sandwich

Panettone Recipe – Italian Christmas Bread

This traditional Italian bread is sweet, airy, and studded with dried fruit. It has a tender, light crumb and a slightly crisp exterior. Often enjoyed toasted with butter or alongside coffee. A festive centerpiece for holiday celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Panettone Recipe – Italian Christmas Bread