If you’re tired of the same old spaghetti and want to try some quick and easy Italian recipes, you’ve come to the right place. From one-pot dishes to 30-minute meals, these recipes are perfect for busy weeknights. With so many different flavors and options to choose from, you’ll never get bored with Italian cuisine.
But have you ever wondered if there’s more to Italian cooking than just spaghetti and meatballs? Are there any simple Italian dishes that can be prepared in a flash without compromising on taste?
Quick and Easy Italian Chicken Cutlets
Looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that is quick to prepare? Our recipe for Italian chicken cutlets is a family favorite and can be made in just a few simple steps. These breaded cutlets are pan-fried to perfection and finished under the broiler for a crispy and mouthwatering dish.
To make this classic Italian recipe, start by preparing the breading mixture. Combine breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a shallow dish. Dip each chicken cutlet into beaten eggs, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture. Press the breadcrumbs firmly onto the chicken to ensure a crispy crust.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Place the breaded chicken cutlets in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the cutlets to a baking sheet and pop them under the broiler for a couple of minutes to achieve that irresistible crispy texture.
While the chicken cutlets are in the broiler, prepare your favorite pasta or spaghetti. Once the cutlets are done, serve them on a bed of spaghetti and garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness. The combination of tender chicken and crunchy crust, paired with pasta, creates a complete and satisfying meal that will impress your family and friends.
Elevate your weeknight dinners with this easy Italian recipe. The quick and delicious Italian chicken cutlets will leave everyone wanting seconds. The crispy and flavorful chicken, paired with a side of pasta, offers a classic Italian dining experience in the comfort of your own home. Enjoy!
Instant Pot Italian Meatballs
If you’re a beginner in the kitchen and looking for a quick and delicious Italian meal, look no further than Instant Pot Italian Meatballs. With just a few simple steps, you can have flavorful meatballs on the table in under an hour. This recipe is perfect for those who are new to Italian cooking or are short on time but still want to enjoy a homemade Italian meal.
First, start by browning the meatballs using the sauté setting of your Instant Pot. This step adds a nice crust to the meatballs and enhances their flavor. Once the meatballs are browned, add the rest of the ingredients, such as tomato sauce, herbs, and spices, and let it cook in an instant. The pressure cooking function of the Instant Pot ensures that the meatballs are cooked to perfection and infused with all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
Once the cooking is complete, serve the meatballs with your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal. The tender and juicy meatballs paired with the al dente pasta create a comforting and satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table.
This Instant Pot Italian Meatballs recipe is not only beginner-friendly but also incredibly convenient. With the help of the Instant Pot, you can have a homemade Italian meal without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a great recipe to have in your repertoire for those busy days when you still want to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal.
- Quick and easy Italian meatballs made in the Instant Pot.
- Brown the meatballs to get that perfect crust.
- Add tomato sauce, herbs, and spices for extra flavor.
- Cook in the Instant Pot for tender and juicy meatballs.
- Serve with your favorite pasta for a classic Italian meal.
Baked Ziti with Pancetta
Baked ziti is a classic dish in Italian cuisine that is loved by many. However, if you’re looking to elevate this traditional favorite, we have the perfect recipe for you. Our Baked Ziti with Pancetta is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines easy Italian recipes with quick cooking methods and traditional Italian flavors.
The star of this dish is the pancetta, an Italian cured meat that adds a rich and smoky flavor to the ziti. Combined with the tanginess of the red wine, the pancetta creates a depth of flavor that will have your taste buds dancing with delight. The dish is then topped with a generous layer of melted cheese, creating a creamy and gooey texture that is simply irresistible.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ziti pasta
- 4 ounces pancetta, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, cook the pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove the pancetta from the skillet and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
- In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened and fragrant.
- Add the red wine to the skillet and simmer for a couple of minutes to allow the alcohol to cook off.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
- Simmer the sauce for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Add the cooked ziti pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Transfer the ziti mixture to a greased baking dish. Top with the crispy pancetta, shredded mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
This Baked Ziti with Pancetta is sure to become a favorite in your household. Its combination of easy Italian recipes, quick cooking methods, and traditional Italian flavors will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds. Serve it with a crisp green salad for a complete dinner that will transport you to the heart of Italy.
Mushroom Scallopini with Cream Sauce
If you’re looking for an easy Italian recipe that’s both quick and delicious, try our Mushroom Scallopini with Cream Sauce. Made with cremini mushrooms, this dish features a creamy sauce that’s packed with rich flavors. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a hunk of homemade Italian bread, allowing you to soak up every last drop of the savory sauce.
Whether you’re planning a special occasion dinner or simply want to treat yourself to a gourmet meal on a weeknight, this recipe is sure to impress. With just a few ingredients and easy preparation steps, you can enjoy a homemade Italian pasta dish that tastes like it came straight from a restaurant.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Here’s how to make it:
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and minced garlic to the skillet, and cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and tender.
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushrooms and stir to coat.
- Slowly pour in the vegetable broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the mixture thickens.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir until well combined. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Remove from heat and serve the mushroom scallopini over your favorite homemade Italian pasta.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
This Mushroom Scallopini with Cream Sauce is a versatile dish that can be served with any type of pasta you prefer. It’s creamy, flavorful, and a true delight for any Italian food lover. So why not give it a try and experience the homemade goodness of this easy Italian recipe?
Linguine with Clams
Don’t save linguine with clams for special occasions, you can easily make it at home. This seafood dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, and the delicate garlic-butter sauce is sure to impress. It’s a quick and flavorful meal that will transport you to the Italian coast.
When it comes to easy Italian recipes, linguine with clams is a classic choice. The combination of fresh clams, garlic, butter, and white wine creates a dish that is both elegant and comforting.
To make this authentic Italian cuisine, start by cooking the linguine according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat some butter and olive oil in a large skillet. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, and sauté until fragrant.
Fresh Clams
- Choose a mixture of littleneck and Manila clams for the best flavor.
- Make sure the clams are fresh and alive by checking for tightly closed shells.
- Discard any clams with cracked or open shells.
Add the clams to the skillet and pour in the white wine. Cover the skillet and let the clams cook until they open, discarding any that do not open. The briny flavor of the clams will infuse the sauce, creating a rich and savory taste.
Once the clams have opened, remove them from the skillet and set them aside. Toss the cooked linguine in the remaining sauce, allowing it to soak up all the flavors. Serve the linguine in bowls, topped with the clams and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Linguine with clams is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light lunch or a satisfying dinner. Pair it with a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the flavors of the seafood and enhance your dining experience.
Oven-Baked Risotto
Risotto doesn’t have to be reserved for special occasions. This one-pot dish comes together in just 45 minutes, with only half of that time spent in the oven. While it’s baking, you can whip up a simple salad to complete the meal. It’s a comforting and delicious option for a weeknight dinner.
When it comes to easy Italian recipes, this oven-baked risotto is a game-changer. Traditionally, risotto requires constant stirring on the stovetop to achieve that creamy texture. But with this recipe, you can skip the constant stirring and let the oven do the work for you.
Start by sautéing diced onions and minced garlic in a large oven-safe pot or Dutch oven. Once the onions are translucent, add Arborio rice and cook for a couple of minutes until it’s lightly toasted. This step helps to enhance the nutty flavor of the rice.
Next, deglaze the pot with white wine, stirring constantly until the wine is mostly absorbed. This step adds a subtle acidity and depth of flavor to the dish. Then, add chicken or vegetable broth, along with your favorite herbs and seasonings.
Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and transfer it to a preheated oven. Let it bake for about 20-25 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. The oven’s gentle heat allows the risotto to cook evenly without the need for constant stirring.
Once the risotto is cooked, remove it from the oven and stir in grated Parmesan cheese, butter, and any additional seasonings to taste. The result is a creamy, flavorful risotto that pairs perfectly with a variety of add-ins like roasted vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, or grilled chicken.
With this easy oven-baked risotto recipe, you can enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without all the fuss. It’s a great option for weeknight dinners when you want something comforting and delicious, but don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Serve it alongside a simple salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Spinach and Chicken Alfredo Casserole
Sneak some veggies into mealtime with this cheesy casserole that includes an entire package of spinach. This recipe uses jarred Alfredo sauce and pesto sauce to save time, and a rotisserie chicken to make it even easier. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
If you’re looking for an easy Italian recipe that’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this Spinach and Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a great option. Not only does it incorporate the flavors of classic Italian cuisine, but it’s also a convenient and time-saving dish that the whole family will love.
To make this delicious casserole, begin by preheating your oven to 375°F. In a large skillet, sauté some minced garlic and onions until they become fragrant. Then, add the spinach and cook until it wilts. Remove from heat and set aside.
In a separate bowl, combine jarred Alfredo sauce and pesto sauce. Stir well to mix the flavors together. You can use store-bought sauces to save time, or make your own if you prefer.
Next, shred a rotisserie chicken and add it to the bowl with the sauce mixture. Mix until the chicken is well coated.
In a greased baking dish, layer half of the chicken and sauce mixture. Top with a layer of cooked pasta—I recommend using fettuccine or penne for this recipe. Then, evenly spread the sautéed spinach over the pasta.
Add the remaining chicken and sauce mixture over the spinach, spreading it evenly. Finally, sprinkle a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
Cover the casserole with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Once the casserole is cooked, let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread.
This Spinach and Chicken Alfredo Casserole is a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste. Feel free to add some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or sliced mushrooms for extra flavor. You can also substitute different types of cheese or add some crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of spice.
Enjoy this easy weeknight dinner that brings together the goodness of Italian ingredients with the convenience of a casserole. It’s a flavorful and satisfying option that will impress both your family and guests.
Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup
If you’re looking for an easy Italian recipe that can be made in under an hour, this Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is the perfect choice. It’s a versatile dish that can be prepared in advance or cooked slowly in a slow cooker, making it convenient for busy weeknights.
This flavorful soup combines the richness of Italian sausage with the heartiness of white beans. The sausage adds a savory and slightly spicy kick, while the white beans provide a creamy texture and a good source of protein. The addition of white wine, herbs, and a cheese rind enhances the broth, giving it an incredible depth of flavor.
To serve, we recommend pairing this comforting soup with crusty bread. It’s the ideal combination for a complete and satisfying meal. Dip the bread into the soup to soak up the delicious flavors and enjoy every bite.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white wine
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 cheese rind (Parmesan or Pecorino Romano)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces with a wooden spoon.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.
- Pour in the white wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Next, add the chicken broth, white beans, diced tomatoes, dried basil, dried oregano, and the cheese rind.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the cheese rind and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
With its warm and comforting flavors, this Italian Sausage and White Bean Soup is a simple Italian dish that will satisfy your cravings for a quick and delicious meal. Give it a try and enjoy the taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home.
Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake
Looking for a comforting and delicious Italian dish that you can prepare in no time? Our Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake is the perfect solution for easy weeknight dinners. Combining the convenience of a rotisserie chicken with a homemade sauce, this dish will satisfy your cravings in just 20 minutes.
To create the velvety texture and full-flavored Alfredo sauce, we’ve added buttermilk to the mix. This ingredient elevates the taste and adds a creamy richness to the dish. With each bite, you’ll experience the perfect balance of flavors and textures.
To make this meal a complete dining experience, we recommend serving it with a side salad. The refreshing greens and tangy dressing will complement the cheesy goodness of the ravioli bake, creating the ultimate easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 package of cheese-filled ravioli
- 1 cup of buttermilk
- 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Cook the ravioli according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a medium-sized bowl, combine the shredded rotisserie chicken, buttermilk, Parmesan cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread a thin layer of the chicken mixture on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Layer half of the cooked ravioli over the chicken mixture, then cover with the remaining chicken mixture. Top with the remaining ravioli.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Elevate your weeknight dinner routine with our Chicken Alfredo Ravioli Bake. With its irresistible cheesy goodness and quick preparation time, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the flavors of Italy without the hassle of a complicated recipe. Buon appetito!
Mediterranean Artichoke Pasta
This simple pasta dish is bursting with Mediterranean flavors, thanks to marinated artichokes and roasted red peppers. With a cook time of just 25 minutes, it’s a quick and easy option for a weeknight dinner. The ingredients may sound fancy, but the recipe is straightforward and accessible.
Ingredients:
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- 1 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add the artichoke hearts and roasted red peppers to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Stir in the dried oregano and red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until well coated with the sauce.
- Remove from heat and serve the Mediterranean artichoke pasta hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Enjoy this delicious homemade Italian pasta dish packed with Mediterranean flavors. It’s a quick and easy option for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Slow Cooker Chicken Cacciatore
Looking for an easy Italian recipe that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor? Our slow cooker chicken cacciatore is the answer! With just 20 minutes of prep work, you can have a delicious dinner ready for the whole family to enjoy.
In this recipe, tender chicken is cooked in a flavorful sauce made with olives, Parmesan cheese, and a pat of butter. As it simmers in the slow cooker for hours, the chicken becomes incredibly tender and absorbs all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
To complete the meal, we recommend serving the chicken cacciatore with your favorite pasta or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. It’s a satisfying and easy weeknight dinner that will leave everyone asking for seconds.