If you've been looking for some easy Italian dinner recipes, you're in the right place. We all love pizza and pasta, but there are so many other Italian dinner options that are easy to make and taste great!
I've curated a list of the 55 best Italian dinner recipes that you're going to fall in love with. Each recipe is handpicked and tastes incredible. Trust me, you'll want to bookmark this page to try all of them!
There's something just so comforting about a hearty Italian dinner. It's a universal favorite and everyone seems to love it!
The best part is that these recipes are super easy to make, too.
They've quickly become my go-to recipe to please all the picky eaters in my house! And trust me, they love it every single time.
You have got to try these easy Italian dinner recipes to know what I mean!
55 Easy Italian Dinner Recipes To Try
1. Instant Pot Pork Ragu
Looking for a tasty Italian dinner recipe? Then try this instant pot pork ragu!
It's quick, foolproof, and tastes absolutely incredible with melt-in-your-mouth pork. The hearty rich tomato sauce and warming herbs bring it all together.
Trust me, this is one of the best Italian dinner dishes!
2. Caprese Chicken (Five Ingredient!)
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this 5-ingredient caprese chicken is the perfect choice.
It's a wholesome, hearty Italian dish for dinner that's not only delicious but also gluten-free and made in a single pan.
With its simplicity and comfort food appeal, it's no wonder this Italian meal idea is a family favorite.
3. The BEST Italian Penne Rosa Pasta
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Consider penne rosa pasta, a simple yet delicious Italian dish that can be prepared in a single pot.
This quick Italian dish for dinner is perfect for those busy weeknights, featuring a creamy tomato sauce that adds a rich and comforting touch.
Not only is this an easy Italian dinner idea, but it also brings the authentic flavors of Italian food right to your dining table.
4. Italian Baked Ham Provolone Rosettes
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Try the Italian baked ham provolone rosettes.
These adorable pasta pinwheels, resembling mini lasagna roll-ups, are simple to prepare, making them a perfect Italian dish for dinner.
With a delicious combination of ham, provolone, and parmesan, these baked pasta roses will surely be a hit at your Italian meal idea.
5. Roasted Red Pepper Baked Ziti
If you want to try an easy Italian dinner recipe, this roasted red pepper baked ziti is the perfect choice.
With step-by-step photos and plenty of substitutions, this Italian dish for dinner is as comforting as it is versatile.
Plus, with make-ahead instructions, this Italian meal idea is perfect for busy weeknights.
6. Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
If you're looking for Italian dinner ideas, this one-pot Tuscan chicken pasta is a must-try.
This Italian dish for dinner is loaded with creamy, cheesy goodness, and packed with the robust flavors of garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and chicken.
It's not just a delicious Italian meal idea, but also a convenient one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a cinch.
7. Puttanesca - One Pot Baked Orzo
This puttanesca recipe is a perfect Italian dinner idea that adds a unique spin to a traditional dish.
With this easy Italian dish, you can prepare a one-pot puttanesca that will leave an unforgettable mark on your tastebuds.
It's an Italian meal idea that's not only simple to make, but also delivers an extraordinary Italian dinner recipe you'll want to make again and again.
8. The Best Homemade Cheese Ravioli
This four cheese ravioli recipe is an excellent choice for an Italian dinner recipe.
It's a classic Italian dish for dinner, featuring homemade pasta filled with creamy Italian cheeses.
Not only is this an easy Italian dish to prepare, but it also offers a truly authentic Italian meal idea.
9. Vegan Pasta al Limone (Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free) Italian Lemon Pasta
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Try this classic Italian pasta with a creamy lemon sauce twist!
This Italian dish for dinner is not only vegan, but also gluten-free, dairy-free, and allergy-free, making it a great Italian meal idea for everyone.
Best of all, this easy Italian dish can be whipped up in just 10 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
10. Italian Ratatouille Recipe
You need to try this Italian ratatouille, also known as ciambotta. It's a flavorful stew that's perfect for a hearty Italian meal idea.
This Italian dish for dinner is made with vibrant summer vegetables like tomatoes, zucchini, and eggplant, along with added potatoes for extra heartiness.
To top it off, this easy Italian dish is garnished with fresh herb pesto, making it a delicious and wholesome Italian dinner idea for the whole family.
11. Calamarata Pasta (Calamari and Tomato Sauce)
Calamarata is an easy Italian dinner recipe that brings the authentic flavors of Naples to your table in just 20 minutes.
This Italian dish for dinner features tender calamari in a delicate tomato sauce, making it a perfect Italian dinner idea for seafood lovers.
12. Mafaldine Pasta with Creamy Tomato Sauce
If you're looking for a simple Italian dinner recipe, look no further than this malfadine pasta with creamy tomato sauce.
Not only is this Italian dish for dinner delicious, but it's also ready in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights.
With its simplicity and authentic Italian flavors, this meal idea is sure to become a family favorite.
13. Mushroom Pappardelle Pasta in Creamy Garlic Sauce
This mushroom pappardelle pasta is a perfect Italian dinner recipe for vegetarians and pasta lovers alike.
With its cozy, delicious, and lightly creamy texture, it's an easy Italian dish that brings the authentic Italian food flavor to your dinner table.
Best of all, this Italian meal idea is quick and easy, ensuring a satisfying and easy Italian dinner in just under 30 minutes.
14. Baked Italian Meatballs
This Italian dinner recipe is a real crowd-pleaser, perfect for a family meal or a dinner party. It's so simple to prepare, just bake the meatballs, smother them in sauce, and melt cheese over the top.
One recipe yields 25 bite-sized meatballs, making it an excellent Italian dinner idea when you're feeding a crowd. Plus, they're the perfect size for kids to enjoy too.
Best of all, these delicious meatballs freeze beautifully, making them an easy Italian dish to prepare in advance. Just heat them up when you're ready for a tasty Italian meal.
15. Creamy Tuscan Chicken Orzo Recipe
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? This one-pan creamy Tuscan chicken orzo is a perfect choice.
With sundried tomatoes and spinach, this Italian dish for dinner comes together in just 30 minutes.
It's a simple, delicious, and family-friendly Italian meal idea that will make your weeknights stress-free.
16. Baked Burrata and Tomato Pasta
If you're looking for the best Italian dinner recipes, look no further than this creamy, baked burrata and tomato pasta.
This Italian dish for dinner is not only delicious but also simple to prepare - just toss everything in a dish, bake, and mix with cooked pasta.
It's the perfect Italian meal idea when you want something oozy, creamy, and utterly satisfying.
17. Spicy Tomato Pasta With Italian Sausage
This spicy tomato pasta with Italian sausage is so delicious, you're going to love it!
With a dash of red wine and crushed tomatoes, this Italian dish for dinner can be whipped up in under an hour using just a few kitchen staples.
Try this Italian meal idea for a quick, delicious, and satisfying rigatoni dish that the whole family will love.
18. Spaghetti Arrabiata
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner idea, this spaghetti arrabbiata recipe is a great choice.
This Italian dish for dinner is not only quick and satisfying but also perfectly balances deliciously spicy flavors.
Ready in just 25 minutes, it's an easy Italian dish that's perfect for a family meal.
19. Italian Sausage and White Bean Stew
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this Italian sausage white bean stew is a perfect choice.
With its robust flavors reminiscent of an Italian style chili, this Italian dish for dinner is sure to impress.
Plus, it's a meal that keeps on giving, providing delicious leftovers for your next Italian meal idea.
20. Italian Lentil Soup - Zuppa Di Lenticchie
Italian lentil soup, also known as zuppa di lenticchie, is a superb choice for an Italian dinner recipe.
This easy Italian dish is packed with fresh vegetables, making every bite a delicious treat.
It's an Italian meal idea that offers a hearty and satisfying dinner for the whole family.
21. Eggplant Involtini with Ricotta Filling
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Try eggplant involtini, a classic Italian dish perfect for dinner.
This Italian meal idea involves rolling eggplant with ricotta and letting it simmer in a rich tomato sauce.
It's a must-try Italian dish for dinner, especially during eggplant season.
22. Aglio e Olio (Pasta without Sauce)
Using simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, and cheese, this Italian dish for dinner is not only quick but incredibly delicious.
With the pasta water adding an extra layer of flavor, this easy Italian dish truly embodies the essence of Italian food.
23. Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta e Fagioli, translating to "pasta and beans", is an authentic Italian dish that serves as a perfect Italian dinner recipe.
Composed of simple ingredients like pasta, beans, and tomatoes, it's an easy Italian dish that can be enhanced with a touch of meat or vegetables.
This Italian meal idea not only offers a delicious Italian dinner but also a quick and easy Italian dinner solution for your family.
24. Chicken Mozzarella Skillet
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this chicken mozzarella skillet is a must-try.
It's a family favorite Italian dish for dinner, featuring tender chicken seared and simmeringly bathes in a rich, creamy tomato basil sauce.
This Italian meal idea is not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it the perfect Italian dinner idea for any night of the week.
25. Easy Balsamic Chicken
This balsamic chicken is an easy Italian dinner recipe that you can prepare in just 20 minutes.
The combination of tomatoes and balsamic vinegar brings a unique savory touch to this Italian dish for dinner, making it a great Italian dinner idea.
Being gluten-free, this Italian meal idea is not only delicious but also caters to dietary needs, making it a perfect and easy Italian dish for any night.
26. Grilled Branzino with Lemon Slices, Fresh Herbs and Citrus Olive Oil
You need to try this simply grilled branzino, also known as sea bass, stuffed with lemon slices and fresh herbs.
This Italian dish for dinner is not only delicious but also light and healthy, making it a perfect Italian meal idea for any night of the week.
Served alongside a bright and lemony citrus oil, this easy Italian dish brings the authentic flavors of Italian food right to your dinner table.
27. Steak Pizzaiola
Steak pizzaiola is an easy Italian dinner recipe that brings the authentic flavors of Naples to your table.
This Italian dish for dinner features juicy steak bathes in a tomato sauce that's seasoned to perfection.
It's an Italian meal idea that's not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great Italian dinner idea for any night of the week.
28. Chicken Piccata Cheesecake Factory Copycat
If you're hunting for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this chicken piccata cheesecake factory copycat is a perfect choice.
This Italian dish for dinner tastes just like the restaurant's lemon caper chicken, offering a delicious Italian meal idea.
Best of all, this easy Italian dish only takes 25 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and tasty Italian dinner idea.
29. The Best Slow-Braised Lamb Ragu Recipe
If you're searching for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this slow-cooked lamb ragu is a perfect choice.
It boasts tender pieces of lamb, simmeringly slowly in a savory tomato sauce, making it an ideal Italian dish for dinner.
30. Crock-Pot Italian Zucchini Meatloaf
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Try this crock-pot meatlof with an Italian twist, perfect for a family meal.
This Italian dish for dinner is not only delicious but also healthy, thanks to the shredded zucchini that lightens it up.
What's more, it's a slow-cooker recipe, gluten-free and low carb, making it a great Italian meal idea for those watching their diet.
31. Italian Sausage Tortellini Soup
If you're in search of an easy Italian dinner recipe, sausage tortellini soup is a perfect choice.
This Italian dish for dinner is versatile, allowing you to use either spicy or sweet Italian sausage to suit your preference.
Not only is it a delicious Italian meal idea, but it's also simple to prepare, making it an ideal Italian dinner idea for any night of the week.
32. Chicken Cacciatore
This easy stove top chicken cacciatore recipe is a perfect Italian dinner idea for those who love flavorful, tender chicken.
With its fall-off-the-bone result every single time, it's an easy Italian dish that will impress your family and friends.
Try this Italian dish for dinner and bring a slice of Italy to your mealtime with this easy Italian dinner.
33. Italian Sausage and Peppers
If you're searching for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this sausage and peppers dish is a perfect choice.
Featuring juicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and onions in a simmer-tomato sauce, it's a delicious Italian dish for dinner.
Best of all, it's a one-pot meal that can be served over pasta or mashed potatoes, making it a convenient Italian meal idea for any weeknight.
34. Classic Baked Gluten-Free + Vegan Manicotti (Soy-Free)
Don't miss out on this Italian dinner recipe, a classic and comforting baked manicotti that's both gluten-free and vegan.
It features a homemade tomato sauce and a creamy, dairy-free and soy-free cheese filling, making it a perfect easy Italian dish for dinner.
Topped with a homemade 2-ingredient "parmesan", this Italian meal idea is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
35. Rigatoni Boscaiola with Mushrooms and Sausage
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe, rigatoni boscaiola is a top choice.
This Italian dish for dinner combines fresh and dried mushrooms, sausage, herbs, wine, and parmesan cheese in a rich tomato sauce, making it an earthy and hearty meal.
As an Italian meal idea, it's not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it a great Italian dinner idea for any night of the week.
36. Rapini Pasta
This classic Italian dish is made with a few bold ingredients and is ready in just 30 minutes.
It's a perfect Italian dinner idea for a quick, delicious meal any night of the week.
37. Spinach Ricotta Stuffed Shells
If you're searching for an easy Italian dinner recipe, look no further than these spinach ricotta stuffed shells.
They're incredibly simple to prepare and are filled with a delicious combination of creamy ricotta and spinach, making them a perfect Italian dish for dinner.
Smother them in tomato sauce and you've got an Italian meal idea that's sure to impress your family and friends.
38. The Ultimate Homemade Lasagna Recipe
Here's a lasagna recipe you need to try!
This Italian dish for dinner features layers of noodles, hearty bolognese sauce, creamy bechamel, ricotta, and a mix of cheeses.
Baked until gooey and delicious, this Italian meal idea is perfect for a family-friendly and satisfying dinner.
39. Minestrone Soup (Olive Garden Copycat)
This minestrone soup recipe is a top-notch Italian dinner idea, surpasses even Olive Garden's version.
It's an easy Italian dish, made with readily available pantry staples, making it both nutritious and budget-friendly.
Not only is it an affordable Italian meal idea, but it's also incredibly tasty, perfect for a cozy, easy Italian dinner at home.
40. Chicken Contadina (Italian Chicken Skillet Recipe)
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Say yes to chicken contadina, a low and slow stew that's packed with flavor.
This Italian dish for dinner is not only delicious but also affordable, making it a perfect choice for family meals.
With its simple preparation and yummy outcome, this Italian meal idea is a must-try for all food lovers.
41. Easy Italian Stromboli Recipe
This Italian dish for dinner is packed with flavors from various Italian meats, herbs, and seasonings, making it a perfect Italian meal idea for your family.
Not only is this an easy Italian dish to prepare, but it also brings the authentic Italian food dining right to your home, making it a great Italian dinner idea.
42. Zuppa Di Pesce
This Italian seafood soup is an easy Italian dinner recipe that your family will love.
With its layers of exquisite flavors, it's a perfect Italian dish for dinner on special occasions.
Try this Italian meal idea and bring the authentic Italian food right to your dining table.
43. Pasta Alla Foriana
If you're searching for an easy Italian dinner idea, look no further than pasta alla foriana.
This Italian dish for dinner is not only packed with flavor, but it's also a healthy choice for your family.
Best of all, this Italian meal idea can be whipped up in less than 20 minutes, making it a perfect choice for a quick and delicious Italian dinner recipe.
44. Risotto con Funghi (Risotto with Mushrooms)
Looking for an easy Italian dinner idea? Risotto con funghi is a traditional Italian dish for dinner that is both simple and delicious.
This Italian meal idea combines short-grain rice, mushrooms, onions, broth, white wine, butter, and parmigiano-reggiano cheese for a flavorful Italian dinner recipe.
With its rich flavors and easy preparation, risotto con funghi is an Italian dish that will surely impress your family and friends.
45. Pasta e Piselli (Italian Pasta and Peas Recipe)
This Italian dish is not only simple but also a delicious choice for those busy weeknight dinners.
So, if you're in need of a quick Italian dinner idea, this meal is the perfect solution.
46. Wild Mushroom Risotto
This wild mushroom risotto recipe is a classic Northern Italian dish that's both simple and incredibly tasty.
This Italian dinner recipe can be whipped up in less than an hour, making it a perfect choice for a quick and satisfying Italian meal idea.
So, if you're craving an authentic Italian dish for dinner, this wild mushroom risotto is a delicious and easy Italian dish to try.
47. Pasta alla Norcina
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe, pasta alla norcina is a great choice.
This Italian dish, famous in the Umbria region of Italy, is a comforting sausage pasta that's sure to please.
It's a simple yet delicious Italian dinner idea that brings the authentic flavors of Italian food right to your table.
48. Italian Eggplant Parmigiana with Vodka Sauce
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner idea, this Italian eggplant parmigiana, also known as parmigiana di melanzane, is a top choice.
This authentic Italian dish for dinner features a baked eggplant casserole smothered in a savory tomato and vodka sauce.
Not only is this Italian dinner recipe a great vegetarian option, but it's also bursting with delicious flavors that the whole family will love.
49. Penne al Salmone
This easy Italian dinner recipe for penne al salmone is a great Italian dish for dinner, using only simple ingredients.
It's a perfect Italian dinner idea for a date night, as it only takes 30 minutes to prepare and cook.
Try this Italian dish and enjoy a quick, delicious Italian meal idea that will impress your date.
50. Pasta Carbonara with Guanciale
If you're searching for an easy Italian dinner recipe, this pasta carbonara with guanciale is a great choice.
This Italian dish for dinner combines crispy guanciale and pasta, then tosses them in a creamy sauce made of egg and parmegiano reggiano.
It's a simple yet delicious Italian meal idea that will surely impress your family and friends.
51. Pasta Alla Norma (Sicilian Eggplant Pasta)
This Italian dish from Sicily is a meat-free, flavor-packed option that's perfect for any weeknight.
This Italian dinner recipe combines creamy cooked eggplant and spaghetti in a rich tomato sauce. It's a light, healthy, and utterly delicious Italian dish for dinner that the whole family will love.
So, if you're in need of an Italian meal idea that's simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, give this Pasta Alla Norma a try. It's a surefire way to bring a touch of Italy to your dinner table.
52. Italian Lentil Soup (Zuppa di Lenticchie)
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? This Italian lentil soup (zuppa di lenticchie) is a perfect choice.
This Italian dish for dinner is packed with protein-rich lentils, traditional Italian herbs, and vegetables, making it both hearty and nourishing.
It's an easy Italian dish that brings a touch of Italy to your dinner table, making it a great Italian meal idea for any night of the week.
53. Slow Cooker Risotto with Italian Sausage
If you're looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe, look no further than this slow cooker Italian sausage risotto.
With just 30 minutes of prep time, this Italian dish for dinner is not only simple but also packed with nutritious spinach and white beans.
So, why not try this Italian meal idea tonight and enjoy a delicious and effortless Italian dinner at home?
54. Gnocchi di Ricotta (Ricotta Gnocchi)
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Try ricotta gnocchi (gnocchi di ricotta), a beloved Italian dish for dinner.
This Italian meal idea is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly comforting and delicious.
It's the perfect Italian dinner idea for a family-friendly meal that everyone will enjoy.
55. Bucatini Cacio E Pepe
Looking for an easy Italian dinner recipe? Try this quick and delicious 20-minute vegetarian dish, the classic Italian dish - the bucatini cacio e pepe.
This Italian dinner idea is perfect for any night of the week, saving you time without compromising on the authentic Italian food flavor.
Make your Italian meal idea a reality with this easy Italian dish that will surely impress your family and friends.
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