15 Italian Recipes That Aren’t as Hard as Your Nonna Makes Them Look

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15 Italian Recipes That Aren’t as Hard as Your Nonna Makes Them Look

Ever wanted to recreate those mouthwatering Italian dishes you see in restaurants or your nonna’s kitchen but thought they were too complicated? Well, think again! We’ve put together a lineup of 15 easy-to-follow Italian recipes that will make you feel like a pro chef without all the fuss. Say goodbye to kitchen intimidation and hello to delicious Italian eats made simple!

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage Parmigiana

Sausage Parmigiana on a white plate with a red napkin and a glass of wine.
Sausage Parmigiana. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Take your love for Italian comfort food to the next level with this hearty and satisfying dish featuring seasoned sausage smothered in marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. With minimal prep and easy cleanup, it’s a weeknight dinner winner the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Parmigiana

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Pasta e Fagioli Soup in 2 bowls with spoons.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Warm up from the inside out with this hearty and flavorful soup that’s a staple in Italian kitchens. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal on a chilly evening or need a quick and easy dinner option, this one-pot wonder delivers big on taste with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese Sauce on pasta.
Authentic Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Treat your taste buds to the rich and savory flavors of this authentic Italian Bolognese sauce. It’s a versatile sauce that pairs perfectly with your favorite pasta or polenta. Simmered low and slow to perfection, it’s a taste of Italy that’s easier to make than you might think.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Polenta with Mascarpone

Polenta with mascarpone in a white bowl.
Polenta with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Upgrade your side dish game with this creamy and indulgent polenta topped with luscious mascarpone cheese. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up this Italian classic to impress even the most discerning palates.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

A bowl of oven-roasted tomato soup with two spoons.
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Cozy up with a bowl of this comforting tomato soup that’s bursting with flavor from oven-roasted tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or lazy weekends. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich for the ultimate comfort food experience that’s sure to warm you from the inside out.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

A bowl of pasta with cherry tomato sauce, cherry tomatoes, and garlic.
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Experience the vibrant flavors of summer with this light and refreshing pasta dish featuring a simple cherry tomato sauce. Tossed with your favorite pasta shape, it’s a quick and easy meal that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce

Chicken Scampi

A white plate with Chicken Scampi and green beans resting in the center.
Chicken Scampi. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of this classic Italian-American dish. With just a handful of ingredients and a simple cooking technique, you can recreate restaurant-quality chicken scampi right in your own kitchen. Serve it over pasta or with crusty bread to soak up every last drop of the delicious sauce.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Scampi

Keto Zuppa Toscana Soup

Low Carb Zuppa Toscana Soup in a white round bowl with small handles.
Keto Zuppa Toscana Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Stay on track with your keto lifestyle while still enjoying the flavors of Italy with this creamy and comforting Zuppa Toscana soup. Easy to make and perfect for meal prep, it’s a delicious way to stay warm and cozy on chilly days without sacrificing your dietary goals.
Get the Recipe: Keto Zuppa Toscana Soup

Classic Low-Carb Caprese Salad

A top-down shot of a classic caprese salad in a black dish.
Classic Keto Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Refresh your palate with this classic Italian salad. It’s a light and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer picnics, barbecues, or as a refreshing side to any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, it’s a low-carb-friendly option that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Classic Keto Caprese Salad

Baked Pesto Salmon

Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.
Baked Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Upgrade your seafood game with this flavorful and easy-to-make baked pesto salmon. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to impress with its simplicity and taste.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Dive into a plate of comfort with these generously sized pasta shells stuffed to the brim with creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheese. It’s a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Surprisingly easy to make, it’s a go-to recipe for satisfying cravings with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sink your teeth into this delicious grilled chicken Caprese sandwich. It’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner and can be made in just minutes on the grill. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, it’s a sandwich worth savoring.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce in a black skillet.
Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Indulge in the creamy and decadent flavors of this homemade Alfredo sauce that tastes just like the one from your favorite Italian restaurant. It’s a rich and satisfying sauce that pairs perfectly with fettuccine or your favorite pasta shape. Best of all, it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with just a handful of pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Alfredo Sauce

Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner By Heather.

Treat yourself to a restaurant-worthy meal at home with this indulgent shrimp Alfredo pasta. It’s a dish that’s sure to impress with its rich flavors and elegant presentation. Surprisingly easy to make, it’s the perfect choice for a special occasion dinner or whenever you’re craving a taste of Italian comfort food without the restaurant price tag.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Tomato Bruschetta Board

Tomato bruschetta board on a table.
Tomato Bruschetta Board. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge in the simplicity and freshness of this classic Italian appetizer. Think of ripe tomatoes tossed with fragrant basil and garlic, all piled atop slices of crusty bread. It’s a burst of flavor in every bite, perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a light meal on a sunny afternoon.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

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