When it comes to Italian cuisine, there’s no denying its allure. From the rich pasta dishes to the savory meats and sweet desserts, every bite is a taste sensation. And yet, despite the popularity of Italian food worldwide, many people may be intimidated by the thought of cooking authentic Italian recipes at home. But fear not! With these 19 classic and modern Italian recipes, you’ll be whipping up your own delicious meals in no time.
From comforting favorites like Spaghetti Carbonara and Homemade Margherita Pizza to more adventurous dishes like Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce and Osso Buco with Gremolata, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
A rich and creamy Italian dish that combines spaghetti, bacon or pancetta, eggs, parmesan cheese, and black pepper for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon or pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crispy.
3. Remove the cooked bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, crack in the eggs and whisk together with a fork. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the edges start to set.
5. Add the grated parmesan cheese to the egg mixture and stir well.
6. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
7. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom Risotto
A classic Italian dish that’s sure to impress, this creamy mushroom risotto is a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the mushrooms and garlic; cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the Arborio rice and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture.
5. Add the white wine (if using) and cook until absorbed.
6. Warm the broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup of broth at a time to the risotto, stirring constantly and allowing each portion to absorb before adding more.
7. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Homemade Margherita Pizza
Experience the simplicity and flavor of a traditional Neapolitan-style pizza with this homemade recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 8 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add olive oil, salt, and 2 cups of flour to the bowl. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Gradually add the remaining 2 cups of flour, one cup at a time, until the dough becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Knead the dough for 5-10 minutes until it’s smooth and shiny.
5. Place the dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for 1-2 hours or until doubled in size.
6. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
7. Punch down the dough and shape into a circle or rectangle. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Top with mozzarella cheese, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce
Elevate your mealtime with this flavorful and elegant chicken dish, featuring tender chicken breasts topped with a bright and citrusy lemon sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Pound chicken breasts to 1/4-inch thickness.
2. Dredge in flour, shaking off excess.
3. Melt butter in a skillet; add chicken and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through.
4. Remove chicken; set aside.
5. Add lemon juice, garlic, and white wine (if using) to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
6. Serve chicken with lemon sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Beef Bolognese with Tagliatelle
This classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, rich and flavorful with tender beef and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz Tagliatelle pasta
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Cook the Tagliatelle according to package instructions, then set aside.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until the vegetables are softened.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve the Beef Bolognese over cooked Tagliatelle, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Genovese with Fresh Basil
Experience the authentic flavors of Italy with this classic Pesto Genovese recipe, made with fresh basil and a blend of Mediterranean herbs. This iconic sauce is a staple of Italian cuisine, perfect for pasta, pizza, and more.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts (or walnuts)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a food processor or blender, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, and garlic. Process until coarsely chopped.
2. Add Parmesan cheese and process until well combined.
3. With the processor running, slowly pour in olive oil through the top. Process until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan with Mozzarella
This Italian-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, featuring tender eggplant slices coated in crispy breading and melted mozzarella cheese. Serve hot alongside pasta or garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip eggplant slices in the flour mixture, then coat with breadcrumbs, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry eggplant slices until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Transfer fried eggplant to a baking dish and spoon marinara sauce over the top.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese evenly over the sauce.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tiramisu with Espresso Soaked Ladyfingers
A classic Italian dessert gets a boost of flavor and caffeine with this recipe for Tiramisu featuring espresso-soaked ladyfingers.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed espresso
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 8 oz heavy cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese, heavy cream, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Dip each ladyfinger into the espresso for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable but not too wet.
3. In a large serving dish, create a layer of ladyfingers. You may need to trim them to fit the dish.
4. Spread half of the mascarpone mixture over the ladyfingers.
5. Repeat the layers: espresso-soaked ladyfingers, then mascarpone mixture.
6. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
7. Slice and serve.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Caprese Salad with Balsamic Glaze
A classic Italian salad gets a sweet and tangy twist with this simple recipe. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (see note)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange tomato slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tomato slice with a piece of mozzarella cheese.
3. Sprinkle chopped basil leaves over the cheese.
4. Drizzle balsamic glaze over the salad, allowing it to pool slightly between the tomatoes and cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is best served fresh, so assemble just before serving.
Note: Balsamic glaze can be made by reducing 1 cup of balsamic vinegar on low heat until thickened, or store-bought balsamic glaze can be used.
Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce
This decadent recipe combines succulent lobster meat with a bold and spicy tomato sauce, perfect for a special occasion or a luxurious treat. The combination of rich flavors and tender seafood will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup red pepper flakes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add lobster meat; cook until lightly browned, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Serve lobster fra diavolo hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Minestrone Soup with Seasonal Vegetables
As the seasons change, so do the flavors of this classic Italian soup. This recipe combines tender vegetables and beans with aromatic herbs and spices for a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup cooked kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the red bell pepper and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, kidney beans, parsley, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a simmer; cook until heated through, about 10-15 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Panna Cotta with Raspberry Coulis
This classic Italian dessert combines creamy panna cotta with a sweet and tangy raspberry coulis, perfect for warm weather or any special occasion. With only a few ingredients and simple preparation, this recipe is sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the Panna Cotta:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Raspberry Coulis:
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°F (85°C). In a medium saucepan, combine cream, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat until sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Let cool slightly.
3. Pour mixture into small individual cups or ramekins. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. For the coulis, combine raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a blender. Blend until smooth.
5. Serve chilled panna cotta with raspberry coulis spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (preparation time: 20 minutes)
Fettuccine Alfredo with Parmesan Cheese
Classic Fettuccine Alfredo with Parmesan Cheese
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, made with tender fettuccine noodles smothered in a decadent sauce of melted butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 6 tablespoons (3/4 stick) unsalted butter
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the cheese sauce and toss until well coated. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sausage and Peppers with Garlic Bread
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe combines juicy sausages, crunchy peppers, and savory garlic bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 Italian-style sausages (sweet or hot)
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook sausages in a large skillet over medium-high heat, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. In the same skillet, add sliced peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, place baguette slices on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with minced garlic. Bake in preheated oven for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
5. Serve sausages and peppers with garlic bread and optional Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes
Tuscan Ribollita with Cannellini Beans
This hearty soup, a staple of Tuscan cuisine, is made with creamy cannellini beans, fresh vegetables, and crusty bread. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 slices day-old bread, torn into pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
2. Add broth, beans, tomatoes, and bread. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chocolate Hazelnut Cannoli
Experience the perfect fusion of Italian tradition and rich, velvety chocolate with these decadent cannoli filled with a creamy hazelnut mixture.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cannoli shells
– 1 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup hazelnut spread (such as Nutella)
– 1 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Chopped hazelnuts for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar and softened butter until smooth.
3. Add granulated sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
4. Fold in hazelnut spread until well incorporated.
5. Fill cannoli shells with the hazelnut mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
6. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
7. Drizzle melted chocolate over filled cannoli and garnish with chopped hazelnuts.
Cooking Time: None required! Assemble and serve immediately.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi
Experience the simplicity and flavor of this classic Italian-American dish, featuring succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and swirl until melted.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
5. If using white wine and lemon juice, add to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Panettone with Candied Fruits
Panettone is a classic Italian bread that’s perfect for the holiday season, especially when infused with candied fruits. This recipe combines the tender, buttery bread with sweet and tangy candied citrus peel to create a show-stopping dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup candied orange peel, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup candied citron, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, combine flour, confectioners’ sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Add lukewarm milk and egg to the dry ingredients; mix until smooth.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for about 1 hour.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
6. Punch down the dough; fold in candied fruits and melted butter.
7. Pour into a greased 9-inch tube pan or Bundt pan.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Osso Buco with Gremolata
Savor the rich flavors of Italy’s classic braised beef dish, elevated by a bright and herby gremolata sauce.
Ingredients:
For the Osso Buco:
– 4-6 beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Gremolata:
– 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon zest
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the short ribs in olive oil, then set aside.
3. Cook the onion and garlic until softened; add beef broth, wine, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Return the browned short ribs to the pot; cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
5. Braise for 2-1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Meanwhile, combine parsley, lemon zest, garlic, and salt for the gremolata.
7. Serve the Osso Buco with a spoonful of gremolata sauce.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of Italy with these 19 authentic recipes that are sure to please your family. From classic dishes like Spaghetti Carbonara and Homemade Margherita Pizza, to hearty options like Beef Bolognese and Sausage and Peppers, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out on decadent desserts like Tiramisu and Panna Cotta, or refreshing salads like Caprese Salad. And for a taste of the sea, try Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi or Lobster Fra Diavolo with Spicy Tomato Sauce. Each recipe is a true representation of Italian cuisine’s rich history and culture.