Didn’t Think You Could Master Italian Cooking? These 17 Easy Recipes Will Prove You Wrong

If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the idea of cooking Italian at home, you might be surprised by how manageable it can be. With 17 easy recipes, each step is broken down into straightforward instructions. This approach makes it simple for anyone to start cooking authentic Italian meals right in their own kitchen.

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.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Two Chicken Gnocchi Soup copycat soup recipes on a table.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Many shy away from Italian cooking due to its perceived complexity. However, mastering a cozy Chicken Gnocchi Soup is simpler than you might think. This dish is perfect for those chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. Its heartwarming blend brings a homemade touch without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Birria Pizza

Birria Pizza on a pizza stone.
Birria Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Merging traditional tastes with bold experiments can lead to surprising outcomes, just like with Birria Pizza. It combines well-loved elements into a dish that stands out at any gathering. Quick to make, it brings a fusion that might just become your new favorite. Why not surprise your guests next time with something they’ve likely never tried?
Get the Recipe: Birria Pizza

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re looking to add a quick yet impressive dish to your dinner repertoire, Garlic Shrimp Scampi has you covered. It’s light yet packed with punchy flavors, ideal for a last-minute gathering or a quiet dinner at home. Plus, it’s quicker to whip up than you might anticipate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Italian Chicken proves that sometimes, simplicity wins the day. It’s a no-frills, straightforward dish that appeals to a wide audience, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Its preparation and cooking process promise a hearty meal without a day spent in the kitchen. This dish shows that you don’t need a ton of ingredients for a meal to be thoroughly enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those warmer days when a light yet fulfilling meal is on the agenda, Pesto Orzo Salad answers the call. It’s as vibrant in taste as it is in color, offering a fresh take on salad that even those usually indifferent to salads might enjoy. Easy to assemble with minimal fuss, it’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a simple side dish at home.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

A white plate of creamy balsamic vinaigrette salad dressing resting next to a plate of salad.
Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Transforming your salads or grilled vegetables is easy with the right dressing, such as a homemade Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette. Far surpassing anything store-bought, it’s a testament to the power of homemade condiments. Quick to mix up, it stores well and enhances meals with a rich, creamy texture that you’ll want to use on more than just salads.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ham & Asparagus Pizza

A pizza with ham and asparagus on a pizza stone.
Ham & Asparagus Pizza. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Breaking away from the typical pizza toppings, Ham & Asparagus Pizza brings freshness and creativity to your pizza night. It’s a reminder that experimenting with ingredients often results in delicious surprises. This recipe is straightforward, making homemade pizza an achievable feat on any day of the week.
Get the Recipe: Ham & Asparagus Pizza

Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Kale and tortellini soup in a bowl on a wooden table.
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

On those days when only a warm, soul-soothing bowl will do, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken is the answer. It packs in nutrients and flavors without requiring professional skills. Comforting and rich, this soup manages to feel both indulgent and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to introduce more greens into your meal in a way that even picky eaters can appreciate.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken

Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

A plate of asparagus with mascarpone and lemon.
Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sometimes, the simplest dishes yield the most memorable experiences, much like Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone. It upgrades an everyday side into something you might find in a high-end restaurant, all from the comfort of your kitchen. The creamy mascarpone adds a luxurious twist, proving that with minimal effort, you can create dishes that feel gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Asparagus with Mascarpone

Baked Pesto Salmon

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

For a heart-healthy and visually appealing dinner option, Baked Pesto Salmon fits the bill perfectly. Not only does it cook in no time, but it also leaves you with a dish that looks like it took much more effort than it actually did. It’s proof that nutritious meals can also be full of character.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Pizza Sauce

Homemade tomato sauce in a mason jar with a spoon.
Pizza Sauce. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Upgrading your pizza game starts with the basics, such as mastering your own Pizza Sauce. It’s easier than many assume and allows for personal tweaks to nail that perfect flavor profile. Making it from scratch ensures your pizza has a solid foundation, turning a good homemade pizza into a great one. It’s a small step that can transform your pizza nights.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

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

For a lunchtime revolution, Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich offers a delectable solution. It’s light, refreshing, and perfectly suited for those looking for a meal that packs in flavor without the heaviness. The combination of ingredients feels like a nod to summer, making it an ideal choice for outdoor dining or a special midday treat.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Tomato Bruschetta Board

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

Tomato Bruschetta Board is not just food; it’s an experience meant to be shared. It encourages a communal dining atmosphere, perfect for gatherings or a family meal. With minimal preparation, it invites everyone to customize their perfect bite. This dish is a celebration of fresh ingredients and simple pleasures.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Bruschetta Board

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Taking the “intimidation” out of Italian cooking, Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is hearty, fulfilling, and surprisingly straightforward to make. Suitable for busy weeknights, it demonstrates that you don’t need hours or exotic ingredients to produce a meal that’s rich in taste and texture.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken is a testament to how grilling can transform simple ingredients into a meal that feels celebratory. Ideal for summer BBQs or an uplifting meal any day, it’s a dish that consistently pleases without the stress of complex preparations.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

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.

Craving something indulgently creamy yet simple to make? Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo brings the restaurant experience home without the fuss. It’s a dish that comforts and impresses, proving you don’t need to go out to enjoy a meal that feels special. It’s all about bringing joy through food, served up in no time.
Get the Recipe: Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

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

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells stand as a beacon for all cheese lovers seeking solace in a plate of pasta. It’s not only visually fulfilling but also fills the room with an aroma that promises an imminent feast. Despite being a dish that seems intricate, it’s quite straightforward, inviting even novice cooks to try their hand at something a bit more adventurous.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

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