The Coziest Italian Recipes to Cook Right Now
Apr 09, 2025
This post may contain affiliate links, please see our privacy policy + disclosures for details.
When life feels like a never-ending Monday, there’s only one thing to do: pasta. These comforting Italian dishes are your edible escape hatch, whether it’s the gooey glory of Traditional Lasagna, the creamy coziness of Chicken Stuffed Shells, or Baked Rigatoni that basically gives you a carb-hug. Want something lighter that still hits all the comfort notes? Try Shrimp Pesto Pasta with Asparagus or a warm slice of Focaccia that’s practically a therapy session in bread form. From Bucatini all’Amatriciana with its saucy swagger to Crab Pasta that are surprisingly wholesome but still 100% satisfying, this lineup is here to make dinner feel like a warm, reassuring “ciao, bella.”
Table of Contents
- Crab Pasta
- Traditional Lasagna Recipe
- Chicken Stuffed Shells
- Baked Rigatoni
- Bucatini all’Amatriciana
- Easy Pesto Pasta
- Focaccia
- Caprese Grilled Cheese
- Ravioli Salad
- Roasted Spaghetti Squash w/ Eggplant Puttanesca
- How to Create the Ultimate Italian Salad Platter
- Tomato and Hearts of Palm Salad
- Shrimp Pesto Pasta with Asparagus
Crab Pasta
In just 20 minutes, you can have a delightful Crab Pasta dish ready to enjoy! This recipe combines simple ingredients like garlic, piquante peppers, and fresh crab meat, creating a flavorful and quick meal perfect for any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Crab Pasta
Traditional Lasagna Recipe
This Traditional Lasagna Recipe is a comforting classic, perfect for a family dinner. The secret to this crowd-pleaser? Three kinds of cheese and a fantastic homemade sauce. You’ll love how easy it is to assemble and how delicious it tastes!
Get the Recipe: Traditional Lasagna Recipe
Chicken Stuffed Shells
These Chicken Stuffed Shells are a comforting and easy dinner that the whole family will enjoy. Featuring just 7 ingredients like chicken, ricotta, and marinara sauce, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, making meal prep a breeze!
Get the Recipe: Chicken Stuffed Shells
Baked Rigatoni
This baked rigatoni recipe is the perfect comforting and balanced meal all in one pan! Packed with robust flavor from Italian sausage and melted cheese, it even sneaks in some hidden veggies. It’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser for both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rigatoni
Bucatini all’Amatriciana
This Bucatini all’Amatriciana recipe is a classic Italian comfort food! Thick bucatini pasta is coated in a flavorful sauce made with pancetta, San Marzano tomatoes, and Pecorino Romano cheese. It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini all’Amatriciana
Easy Pesto Pasta
This quick and easy pesto pasta recipe by Love and Lemons is a guaranteed hit for a weeknight dinner! It features bold, fresh basil pesto, pine nuts, and greens. Make it vegan by using vegan pesto and parmesan.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pesto Pasta
Focaccia
This easy Italian Focaccia Bread recipe is perfect for beginner bakers. It’s a simple, forgiving, and extremely delicious way to bake your first loaf of bread. Top with fresh rosemary and flaked sea salt for a flavorful treat.
Get the Recipe: Focaccia
Caprese Grilled Cheese
This Caprese Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic sandwich, featuring melty mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil pesto between slices of buttery sourdough bread. It’s a quick and easy vegetarian option that brings the flavors of Italy to your lunch or dinner table. Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction for the perfect finish!
Get the Recipe: Caprese Grilled Cheese
Ravioli Salad
This Ravioli Salad is a crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick and easy to make! It combines four-cheese ravioli with pepperoni, provolone, artichoke hearts, olives, and a flavorful Italian dressing. Perfect for a potluck or a light dinner!
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Salad
Roasted Spaghetti Squash w/ Eggplant Puttanesca
This Roasted Spaghetti Squash with Eggplant Puttanesca is a simple, delicious, and healthy vegan meal! It’s packed with healthy veggies and full of robust flavors. Plus, it’s also Keto-friendly!
Get the Recipe: Roasted Spaghetti Squash w/ Eggplant Puttanesca
How to Create the Ultimate Italian Salad Platter
This Italian Salad Platter is a customizable and beautiful way to serve a crowd. Lay out your favorite salad fixings, like marinated chickpeas, artichokes, salami, and mozzarella, and let everyone create their own perfect salad! Don’t forget a tangy golden balsamic vinaigrette for the finishing touch.
Get the Recipe: How to Create the Ultimate Italian Salad Platter
Tomato and Hearts of Palm Salad
Ready in just 10 minutes, this Tomato and Hearts of Palm Salad is a light and healthy side dish, perfect for potlucks and BBQs. The simple combination of cherry tomatoes, hearts of palm, and a tangy vinaigrette make it a refreshing addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Tomato and Hearts of Palm Salad
Shrimp Pesto Pasta with Asparagus
This Shrimp Pesto Pasta with Asparagus is a quick and easy dinner that’s ready in just 30 minutes. The homemade basil-parsley pesto really elevates this dish, making it a family favorite. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a healthy and flavorful meal!
Get the Recipe: Shrimp Pesto Pasta with Asparagus