Italian Recipes That Make 29 Restaurant-Quality Meals Cost Way Less

Restaurant-quality meals don’t have to come with restaurant prices—or the awkward small talk. These 29 Italian recipes bring that same “table for two” vibe without draining your wallet. You still get the comfort, the classics, and the kind of food that makes people think you ordered in. Just nod and say, “Thanks,” when they ask where it’s from.

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked pasta topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for a dish that’s going to wow someone special, Marry Me Chicken Casserole is your best bet. It’s got everything to make a regular evening feel like a special occasion. You won’t break the bank, but it will definitely break the routine. This dish proves that you don’t have to go out to have a meal that feels gourmet.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers.
Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Antipasto Salad is a vibrant way to kickstart any meal. It’s packed with bold flavors that get your mouth watering. This salad is more than just a starter; it’s a conversation piece. Plus, it’s a great way to bring a taste of Italy into your kitchen without any fuss.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing says “I went all out” like Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. This dish combines the allure of seafood with the comfort of pasta. It’s perfect for a night when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. It proves that sometimes, the simplest things are the most impressive.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those nights when you can’t decide between pasta and pizza, Ravioli Casserole has got you covered. This dish brings the best of both worlds together. It’s hearty, filling, and oh-so satisfying. And the best part? It comes together with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Mushroom Pizza

Close-up of a pizza topped with arugula, mushrooms, cheese, and herbs on a parchment paper.
Mushroom Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Shake up your pizza routine with the unique and earthy flavors of Mushroom Pizza. This twist on the classic favorite introduces a richness that’s both unexpected and thoroughly enjoyable. Perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in, this pizza knows how to make an impression.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If comfort had a name, it would be Three Cheese Manicotti. This dish wraps you in warmth with its gooey, cheese-laden heartiness. Ideal for those moments when only the most soothing food will do, it’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare. This recipe reminds us that sometimes, the best meals are those that comfort us the most.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Easy Caprese Salad

Caprese salad in a serving bowl, with tomatoes, oil and balsamic glaze nearby.
Easy Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a dish that’s as easy to make as it is beautiful on the plate, Easy Caprese Salad is your go-to. This no-fuss recipe offers a fresh and tasty option that’s perfect for light dining. Celebrating the simplicity of Italian cuisine, it brings together flavors in a way that seems to transport you to Italy itself.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad

Mushroom Pasta

Close-up of fusilli pasta with mushrooms, garnished with rosemary and black pepper.
Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When the craving for something rich and fulfilling strikes, Mushroom Pasta stands ready to satisfy. This dish combines heartiness with minimal fuss, offering a comforting meal that’s perfect for any night. It’s a straightforward reminder of the joy of simple, well-made food. For a dinner option that feels both indulgent and homely, you can’t go wrong here.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Garlic Aioli

Garlic aioli in a mixing bowl with a spoon in it, garlic cloves, and dill around it.
Garlic Aioli. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Upgrade your meal with a side of Garlic Aioli, the little touch that makes a big difference. This versatile condiment enhances just about anything it accompanies. Its rich taste and creamy texture add a punch of excitement, proving that it’s the small touches that can turn a meal from good to great.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Caprese Appetizer

Image shows an overhead shot of Caprese Bites on a wooden board.
Caprese Appetizer. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re after something that screams easy yet elegant, Caprese Appetizer is your go-to. Perfect for kicking off any meal, it sets the stage without needing much prep. You won’t believe how something so simple can be so good. Really, it’s all about letting those fresh flavors shine.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

Artichoke Pizza

A pizza with artichokes, tomatoes and spinach.
Artichoke Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Artichoke Pizza throws a fun twist in the traditional pizza game. Think outside the box with this one, and you won’t be disappointed. It’s for those nights when you want to mix things up a bit. And the best part? It tastes as good as it sounds, promise.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Tiramisu

A slice of tiramisu is being lifted from the dish, showcasing layers of coffee-soaked ladyfingers and creamy mascarpone, topped with cocoa powder.
Tiramisu. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Craving a dessert that feels like a hug in a dish? Tiramisu fits the bill perfectly. It’s the kind of treat that wraps up any meal on a high note. Plus, making it at home is way easier than it seems, and just as delicious as the restaurant version.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sometimes, you just need a bowl of something warm and comforting—enter Spicy Lasagna Soup. This dish takes all the beloved elements of a classic lasagna and spins it into a hearty soup. Great for those chill-out days where you crave something with a bit of a kick. And yes, it’s as comforting as it sounds.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For the nights when you can’t decide between pasta and pizza, Pizza Casserole has got you covered. This is the meal that brings the best of both worlds together. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for sharing, but you might want to keep it all to yourself. Trust me, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Spaghetti Marinara is basically the backbone of simple, good Italian cooking. It’s one of those classic meals that proves you don’t need to go fancy to hit it out of the park. Everyone needs a go-to pasta dish, and this one has your back. Also, it’s quick enough for weeknight dinners, which is a total win.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Pizza Pinwheels

A plate of golden-brown pinwheel pastries filled with tomato sauce and garnished with fresh herbs. A small bowl of sauce is in the background.
Pizza Pinwheels. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Looking for something fun for your next meal? Pizza Pinwheels are where it’s at. They’re great for snacks, parties, or just because you want something different. Easy to make, fun to eat, and a hit with everyone—what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A skillet with creamy chicken pasta featuring spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated cheese, stirred with a wooden spoon.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If the name doesn’t catch your attention, the taste of Marry Me Chicken Orzo definitely will. It’s got this way of making an ordinary night feel special. This dish is all about flavor-packed simplicity that just works. Seriously, it might just be love at first bite.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese.
Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a downright comforting meal, you can’t go wrong with Mushroom Risotto. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and most importantly, it’s easier to make than you might think. Perfect for those days when you need a little food hug. And it’s a surefire hit for anyone who loves mushrooms.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Old but gold, Homemade Lasagna is a classic for a reason. It’s the ultimate comfort food that feeds the soul as much as the stomach. Making it yourself adds that special touch you just can’t get from a store-bought one. Plus, it’s always a hit when you’re feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Neapolitan Pizza

A quick and easy pizza recipe on a white plate.
Neapolitan Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Craving something authentically Italian? Neapolitan Pizza brings the streets of Naples right to your kitchen. It might just ruin all other pizzas for you because it’s that good. Seriously, once you try making this at home, you’ll understand the hype.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Garlic Bread

Slices of garlic bread topped with chopped parsley and sea salt sit enticingly on a wooden board, accompanied by a small bowl of salt and fresh cloves of garlic.
Garlic Bread. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Garlic Bread is practically the quiet MVP of side dishes. It takes any meal from good to great without breaking a sweat. Plus, who can resist that buttery, garlic goodness? It’s simple, it’s classic, and it never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When life gives you lemons, make Best Lemon Pasta. It’s light, it’s bright, and it’s a total game-changer for pasta night. Plus, it’s a quick one to whip up when you’re not in the mood for something heavy. Trust me, it’ll make your regular pasta rotation in no time.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Fresh cherry tomatoes and herbs served in crispy puff pastry cups on a wooden surface.
Caprese Pesto Tarts. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Caprese Pesto Tarts are what you make when you want to impress without much fuss. They combine well-loved flavors in a way that’s both fresh and familiar. Perfect for small gatherings or a personal treat. And yeah, they taste as good as they look.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Ooni Pizza Dough

Someone sprinkling flour over pizza dough.
Ooni Pizza Dough. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Homemade pizza is a journey and Ooni Pizza Dough is the first step. With this dough, you’re already halfway to pizzeria-level greatness. It’s all about getting that perfect chewy, crispy crust. Seriously, this might just become your new weekend project.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Pizza Sauce

Pizza sauce spread over a pizza crust.
Pizza Sauce. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Who said you need to go out to get that perfect kick in your meals? Not us, because with Pizza Sauce, you can whip up that rich taste right at home. It’s all about keeping it real and simple, yet so good you might just forget the store-bought stuff. This is your go-to for turning a regular night into a pizza party at home.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Italian Dressing

A jar with Italian dressing with it and a teaspoon resting in it.
Italian Dressing. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Forget about the bottled stuff you see at the store; Italian Dressing is where it’s at. With this dressing, you’re in for a treat that’s as versatile as it is good. It jazzes up any salad and works wonders as a marinade too. Bringing a piece of Italy to your kitchen has never been easier.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Ever crave something garlicky and soft with just the right touch of crisp? Garlic Knots got you covered. These little knots of joy are the perfect side for your Italian dinners or just by themselves. They’re the comfort food you didn’t know you needed.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you’re looking for something a bit heartier, Gnocchi steps up to the plate. This dish brings a whole new level of home-cooked goodness to your table. It’s that fulfilling meal that makes a regular evening special. Plus, it’s fun to say and even more fun to eat.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Pizza Salad

Homemade pizza salad in a serving bowl with wooden salad servers resting on top.
Pizza Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tired of choosing between pizza and a salad? Pizza Salad combines the best of both worlds. It’s for those days when you want it all, freshness with a slice of indulgence. This is how you keep dinner exciting without breaking the bank.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

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