Tired of the usual healthy options? It’s time to shake things up and embrace these 19 decadent Italian recipes. Perfect for a weekend feast or a special occasion, these dishes will remind you why food is one of life’s greatest pleasures. They’re all about indulging in the flavors and textures that make Italian cuisine so beloved. Enjoy the simplicity and elegance of these recipes, and let yourself be swept away by the taste of Italy.
![Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken inside cast iron.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tomato-Chicken-14.jpg)
Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza
![Two flatbread pizzas on a tray.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/Flatbread-Pizza.jpg)
Who said making
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Flatbread Pizza
Minestrone Soup with Sausage
![Minestrone Soup with Sausage in white bowl with spoonful.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/minestrone-LBR.jpg)
Looking for something warm and filling? Minestrone Soup with Sausage is here to save your dinner plans. It’s a heartier take on the classic minestrone, packed with flavor and perfect for any season. Plus, it’s a great way to get a whole bunch of veggies in without even noticing.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup with Sausage
Rosemary Sourdough Bread
![Rosemary sourdough bread on cutting board.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Rosemary-Sourdough-Bread.jpg)
Ever wanted to make your own bread? Rosemary Sourdough Bread makes it not just possible, but also incredibly rewarding. With its aromatic hint of rosemary, it’s a bread that’s as good to smell as it is to eat. And it’s way easier than you might think.
Get the Recipe: Rosemary Sourdough Bread
Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu
![a plate of slow cooker lamb ragu over pappardelle pasta surrounded by a block of parmesan, a white linen, and torn baguette.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/86.jpg)
Just set it and forget it, and Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu will be ready to wow you by dinner time. This dish is all about those slow-cooked flavors melding together to create something truly special. It’s rich, it’s comforting, and it’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Lamb Ragu
Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
![Italian ratatouille in a glass casserole dish.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Italian-ratatouille-in-a-glass-casserole-dish.jpg)
Bring a bit of Italy to your vegetable game with Ratatouille with an Italian Flair. This dish is a colorful, vibrant side that goes well with just about anything. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it’s also a great way to use up whatever veggies you have lying around. Plus, it looks pretty fancy without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Ratatouille with an Italian Flair
Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese
![Baked tomatoes with Parmesan and mozzarella cheese garnished with parsley.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Baked-Tomatoes-With-Parmesan-And-Mozzarella-Cheese.jpg)
Want a side dish that’s as easy as it is delicious? Try Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese. It’s simple to make and adds a cheesy, gooey goodness to any meal. It’s like bringing a little piece of Italy to your dinner table, no passport required.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tomatoes with Parmesan and Mozzarella Cheese
Baked Pesto Salmon
![Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/finished-salmon-pesto-bake-2HA.jpg)
Sometimes you just need a dish that feels a bit fancy without being a ton of work. With Baked Pesto Salmon, you get that restaurant vibe right at home. It cooks up quickly for a weeknight but feels special enough for guests. Plus, no one has to know it was a breeze to make.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon
Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale
![](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/MSN-Tuscan-White-Bean-Skillet-with-Kale.jpg)
When you’re in the mood for something hearty but healthy, Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale has got you covered. This dish combines wholesome ingredients in a way that’s both simple and incredibly filling. It’s a little taste of Tuscany right in your kitchen. And the best part? It’s super easy to whip up on any given weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
![A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Olive-Garden-Shrimp-Alfredo-Horizontal.webp)
Craving that Olive Garden goodness without having to leave your house? Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo is here to make your dreams come true. It’s creamy, it’s savory, and it’s got all the comfort food vibes you’re looking for. Make it at home for a fraction of the price and double the satisfaction.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette
![A green salad tossed with balsamic dressing in a white bowl with a jar of salad dressing beside it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Lemon-Balsamic-Vinaigrette.jpg)
Salad dressing can make or break your greens, and Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette is here to make sure they shine. It’s zippy, it’s fresh, and it brings your salad to life with just a few simple ingredients. Forget about those store-bought dressings. This homemade version is way better and surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Balsamic Vinaigrette
Cod Piccata
![Cod piccata on a plate with asparagus and rice.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/cod-piccata-1.jpg)
Seafood lovers, rejoice! Cod Piccata brings a light, tangy twist to your dinner rotation. It’s light yet flavorful, and it’s a great way to make a weeknight feel a little bit special. It comes together in no time, saving you precious minutes in the kitchen while delivering a dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
Get the Recipe: Cod Piccata
Caprese Pesto Tarts
![Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/MSN-Cheesy-Caprese-Pesto-Tarts.jpg)
Looking for an appetizer that’s sure to impress? Caprese Pesto Tarts are your new go-to. These little bites are packed with the flavors of Italy and come together in a snap. They’re perfect for parties or just jazzing up your midweek meals.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts
Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich
![Air fryer chicken pesto sandwich on a white plate.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Air-fryer-chicken-pesto-sandwich.jpg)
Sandwiches are good, but Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich is on a whole other level. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it’s got all the flavors of your favorite Italian dish packed into one convenient package. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or anytime you need a quick Italian fix.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Pesto Chicken Sandwich
Easy Meat Sauce
![A pot of tomato sauce with a spoon in it.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/meat-sauce-in-a-pan-AdobeStock-1600-X.jpeg)
Forget about simmering sauce all day. Easy Meat Sauce is here to get you that rich, hearty flavor without all the waiting. It’s perfect for pasta night and makes your kitchen smell amazing. Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve with any of your favorite Italian dishes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meat Sauce
Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup
![Two bowls of Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup in front of an instant pot.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Olive-Garden-Copycat-Pasta-e-Fagioli-Soup14-14.jpg)
Need something warm and comforting? Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup is like a hug in a bowl. It’s packed with flavor, easy to make, and rivals your favorite restaurant version. Perfect for those chilly nights when you want something cozy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Italian Ricotta Cookies
![Ricotta Cookies decorated with Christmas sprinkles.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/msn-christmas-ricotta-1.jpg)
Who can say no to cookies? Italian Ricotta Cookies are soft, light, and just the right amount of sweet. They’re the perfect finish (or start) to any meal and a fun way to bring a bit of Italy into your baking. Plus, they’re way easier to make than they look.
Get the Recipe: Italian Ricotta Cookies
Chicken Piccata
![Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Chicken-piccata-horizontal.jpg)
For a dinner that feels fancy without all the work, Chicken Piccata is a winner. It’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough for guests. The flavors are bright and tangy, and it pairs wonderfully with your favorite sides. It’s a dish that always impresses.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata
Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks
![A wooden cutting board with pepperoni breadsticks and dipping sauce.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Pepperoni-Stuffed-Breadsticks-GC.jpg)
Snack time just got a serious upgrade with Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks. They’re crispy, they’re cheesy, and they’re everything you want in a comfort snack. Plus, they come together in the air fryer in no time. It’s the perfect quick fix for those cheesy cravings.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cheesy Pepperoni Breadsticks
Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken
![Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken inside cast iron.](https://fooddrinklife.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/Tomato-Chicken-14.jpg)
Take your chicken dinner up a notch with Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken. It’s easy, it’s cheesy, and it’s got all the flavors you love in a classic Italian dish. Perfect for when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. And it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Get the Recipe: Tomato Mozzarella Baked Chicken