Are you craving a taste of Italy but don’t want to leave the comfort of your home? Look no further! In this article, we have curated a collection of easy dinner recipes inspired by authentic Italian classics. From mouthwatering pasta dishes to savory meat recipes, these recipes are perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions. Prepare to impress yourself and your loved ones with these delicious and easy Italian dinner recipes.
Key Takeaways:
- Explore a collection of easy dinner recipes inspired by classic Italian dishes.
- These recipes are perfect for both weeknight meals and special occasions.
- Indulge in the best-ever beef ragu, a rich and flavorful comfort food.
- Elevate your dinner with the perfect chicken piccata, a tangy and savory delight.
- Try the skillet eggplant parm for a comforting and satisfying weeknight dinner.
- Satisfy your pizza cravings with the delicious white pizza recipe, a unique twist on a classic dish.
Best-Ever Beef Ragu Recipe
Indulge in the best-ever beef ragu with this delicious recipe. Made with tender beef simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, this dish is the epitome of comfort food. Don’t forget to top it off with Parmesan cheese for the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, dried basil, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Return the browned beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and let simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- After simmering, the beef should be tender and easily shred with a fork. Use two forks to shred the beef into smaller pieces.
- Serve the beef ragu over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or pappardelle. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
Buon appetito!
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Serves |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 minutes | 3 hours | 3 hours and 15 minutes | 4-6 |
Perfect Chicken Piccata Recipe
Elevate your dinner with the perfect chicken piccata. This classic Italian dish features tender chicken dredged in flour, browned to perfection, and cooked in a tangy sauce of lemon juice, butter, and capers. Serve it with your favorite pasta or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
If you’re looking for an easy chicken piccata recipe that is both delicious and impressive, look no further. This recipe combines simple ingredients with bold flavors to create a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup capers, drained
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- In a shallow dish, combine the flour, salt, and pepper. Dredge the chicken breasts in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides and cooked through, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Stir in the lemon juice, chicken broth, and capers. Cook for 2 minutes, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the chicken is heated through.
- Transfer the chicken to a serving dish and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Enjoy this perfect chicken piccata recipe with your favorite pasta or roasted vegetables. The tangy sauce pairs perfectly with the crispy chicken, creating a dish that is both satisfying and full of flavor.
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 15 minutes |
| Total Time | 25 minutes |
| Serves | 4 |
Skillet Eggplant Parm Recipe
Indulge in the delicious flavors of eggplant Parmesan with this easy skillet recipe. Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Sliced eggplant is the star of the show, layered with tangy marinara sauce, plenty of melted cheese, and topped with crispy panko bread crumbs. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat your skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil.
- In a shallow dish, combine the panko bread crumbs, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper.
- Dredge each eggplant slice in the bread crumb mixture, making sure to coat both sides.
- Place the coated eggplant slices in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
- Remove the eggplant slices from the skillet and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a separate baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
- Place a layer of cooked eggplant slices on top of the marinara sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the eggplant.
- Repeat the layers until all the eggplant slices are used, finishing with a layer of cheese.
- Sprinkle panko bread crumbs over the top.
- Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the bread crumbs are golden brown.
- Let the skillet eggplant Parmesan cool for a few minutes before serving.
This skillet eggplant Parmesan recipe is a delightful twist on the classic Italian dish. The crispy breaded eggplant, paired with the tangy marinara sauce and gooey melted cheese, creates a combination of flavors and textures that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s all made in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze. Serve this dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
White Pizza Recipe
Looking to switch things up with your pizza night? Try this tempting white pizza recipe for a unique twist on a classic dish. Unlike traditional pizzas, this recipe foregoes the traditional tomato sauce in favor of a rich and creamy blend of three cheeses. The result is a flavorful pizza that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
The key to creating this delicious white pizza is using a combination of high-quality cheeses. Here’s a breakdown of the cheeses you’ll need:
1 cup mozzarella cheese: provides the perfect gooey and stretchy texture.
1/2 cup ricotta cheese: adds a creamy and slightly tangy flavor.
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese: brings a nutty and sharp taste to the pizza.
To assemble your white pizza, follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
- Roll out your pizza dough into your desired shape and thickness.
- Spread a thin layer of olive oil on the dough to create a crispy crust.
- Evenly distribute the mozzarella, ricotta, and Parmesan cheeses over the dough.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese is bubbling and slightly browned.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
This white pizza is incredibly versatile, allowing you to get creative with your toppings. Consider adding ingredients like caramelized onions, fresh herbs, sautéed mushrooms, or thinly sliced prosciutto to elevate the flavors even more.
Discover the creamy and flavorful goodness of white pizza with this easy recipe. Whether you’re hosting a pizza party or simply enjoying a night in, this unique twist on a classic dish is sure to impress.
Best-Ever Italian Meatballs Recipe
Dive into the best-ever Italian meatballs, packed with flavor and perfectly tender. Made from scratch, these meatballs are the ultimate comfort food and can be served with spaghetti or used in a meatball sandwich. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic Italian recipe.
With a combination of ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of herbs and spices, these Italian meatballs are truly irresistible. The key to achieving the perfect texture is to combine the ingredients gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture. Once formed, the meatballs are then simmered in a rich tomato sauce, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Here’s the step-by-step process of making the best-ever Italian meatballs:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 pound of ground beef, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1/4 cup of finely chopped parsley, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough meatballs.
- Shape the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs, about 1.5 inches in diameter.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Add the meatballs in a single layer and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, add a jar of your favorite tomato sauce and bring it to a simmer.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, spooning the sauce over them to coat.
- Simmer the meatballs in the sauce for about 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
Once the meatballs are cooked and the sauce is flavorful, they’re ready to be enjoyed. Serve them hot with spaghetti or create a mouthwatering meatball sandwich by placing them in a toasted sub roll and topping with melted mozzarella cheese.
These best-ever Italian meatballs are the perfect combination of juicy, flavorful meat and a rich tomato sauce. Whether you’re preparing them for a cozy family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends, they’re sure to be a hit. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to make the best Italian meatballs you’ve ever tasted!
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
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Ricotta Gnudi Recipe
Discover the simplicity of making ricotta gnudi, a delightful Italian pasta dish. Similar to gnocchi, these ricotta dumplings are light, tender, and plump. They are made with ricotta cheese instead of potato, making them even more delicate and flavorful. Serve them with your favorite sauce or a simple brown butter and sage.
If you’re a fan of Italian cuisine, you won’t want to miss this ricotta gnudi recipe. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that is both impressive and delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
To make the ricotta gnudi, simply mix all the ingredients together in a bowl until well combined. The dough should be soft and slightly sticky. Using damp hands, shape the dough into small balls or oval shapes, about the size of a walnut.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle simmer. Carefully drop the gnudi into the water and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Remove the gnudi with a slotted spoon and transfer to a plate.
“These ricotta gnudi are a delightful twist on traditional Italian dumplings. The ricotta cheese adds a creamy and light texture to the dish, while the Parmesan cheese gives it a savory kick. Serve them with your favorite sauce, whether it’s a classic marinara or a rich and indulgent Alfredo. Don’t forget to sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese on top for a finishing touch!”
Once the gnudi are cooked, you can serve them with your favorite sauce. Whether it’s a classic marinara, a creamy Alfredo, or a simple brown butter and sage sauce, the ricotta gnudi will be the star of the meal.
Note: Don’t overcrowd the pot when cooking the gnudi, as they may stick together. Cook them in batches if necessary.
Tips for Perfect Ricotta Gnudi:
- Make sure to use well-drained ricotta cheese to avoid a wet and sticky dough.
- Adding a sprinkle of flour to your hands when shaping the gnudi will prevent the dough from sticking.
- For extra flavor, you can add chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil, to the dough.
- To make the gnudi ahead of time, you can freeze them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Cook them directly from frozen when ready to serve.
Now, it’s time to indulge in the delicate and flavorful ricotta gnudi. Enjoy the rich and creamy texture of these Italian dumplings, and savor the authentic flavors of Italy.
Burrata Salad Recipe
Treat yourself to a luscious burrata salad, a fancy twist on the classic Caprese salad. With ripe tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and a shower of fresh basil and chives, this salad is bursting with flavor and texture. It’s a perfect appetizer or side dish for any Italian-inspired meal.
“The creamy burrata cheese adds a luxurious touch to this salad, elevating it to a whole new level of indulgence. The combination of the creamy cheese, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant herbs creates a harmony of flavors that will leave you craving for more.”
Ingredients:
- Ripe tomatoes
- Fresh burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh chives
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Slice the ripe tomatoes into rounds and arrange them on a serving platter.
- Cut the burrata cheese into pieces and place them on top of the tomatoes.
- Scatter fresh basil leaves and chives over the salad.
- Drizzle extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze over the salad.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
| Preparation Time | Serves | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 4 | Easy |
Carbonara Pizza Recipe
If you’re a fan of spaghetti carbonara, you’ll love this extra cheesy carbonara pizza. Topped with crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and a cracked egg, this pizza is a delicious twist on the classic pasta dish. Serve it with a side of peppery arugula for a balanced and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pizza dough
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 slices cooked bacon, crumbled
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface until it’s about 1/4-inch thick.
- Transfer the rolled-out dough onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the dough.
- Next, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the mozzarella.
- Evenly distribute the crumbled bacon over the cheese.
- Create two small wells in the center of the pizza and carefully crack the eggs into them.
- Bake the pizza in the preheated oven for about 12-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the eggs are cooked to your desired level of doneness.
- Remove the pizza from the oven and sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley, black pepper, and salt over the top.
- Slice and serve the carbonara pizza hot, accompanied by a side of peppery arugula.
Enjoy the irresistible combination of crispy bacon, gooey cheese, and a perfectly runny egg on top of this carbonara pizza. Whether you’re hosting a pizza night or looking to elevate your homemade pizza game, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. It’s a delightful twist on the classic carbonara recipe that will satisfy your cravings for both pizza and pasta.
Chicken Parmesan Recipe
Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with this classic chicken Parmesan recipe. Crispy, well-seasoned chicken is smothered in a flavorful tomato sauce and topped with melty cheese. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Create a savory chicken parm recipe in a few simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a shallow dish, whisk together 1 cup of breadcrumbs with ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- In another shallow dish, beat 2 eggs.
- Dip each chicken breast into the beaten eggs, allowing any excess to drip off, and then coat it thoroughly in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the breaded chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken breasts to a baking sheet and top each breast with a spoonful of tomato sauce.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and additional grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Chicken Parmesan is traditionally served with pasta, such as spaghetti or penne, but you can also enjoy it with a crusty side of garlic bread.
Indulge in the deliciousness of this classic Italian dish and savor every bite. The combination of crispy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese is simply irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or enjoying a cozy night in, this easy chicken Parmesan recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.
Osso Buco Recipe
Indulge in the rich and tender flavors of osso buco, a traditional northern Italian stew. This dish features crosscut veal shanks simmered with aromatic vegetables and herbs until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. It’s a make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for special occasions or weekend dinners.
Osso buco, meaning “bone with a hole” in Italian, is a hearty and flavorful stew that originated in Milan. It is typically made with veal shanks, but you can also use beef or pork shanks as a substitute. The slow cooking process allows the meat to become incredibly tender, while the flavorful broth infuses with the richness of the marrow from the bone.
To make osso buco, start by browning the shanks in a hot skillet to develop a deep caramelized flavor. Then, transfer them to a Dutch oven or slow cooker and add a combination of aromatic vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions. Pour in a mixture of broth, white wine, and tomato sauce, along with a bouquet garni of fresh herbs like bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. Allow the stew to simmer on low heat for several hours until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Osso buco is traditionally served with a gremolata, a vibrant garnish made with lemon zest, garlic, and parsley, which adds a fresh and tangy element to the rich stew. This dish pairs well with creamy polenta or risotto, allowing you to savor every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Variations of Osso Buco
While the traditional osso buco recipe calls for veal shanks, there are various delicious variations of this stew:
- Beef Osso Buco: Using beef shanks instead of veal shanks creates a heartier flavor profile.
- Pork Osso Buco: Pork shanks provide a slightly different texture and flavor, but still result in a delicious stew.
- Chicken Osso Buco: For a lighter twist, you can use chicken thighs instead of shanks.
“Osso buco is a warm and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Italy to your table. The tender meat, aromatic broth, and vibrant gremolata create a symphony of flavors that will transport you to Milan. Perfect for a leisurely dinner with loved ones, this classic Italian stew is a true culinary delight.”
Here’s a simple recipe to guide you in making osso buco:
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 4 veal shanks | 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. |
| 1 cup diced carrots | 2. Season the veal shanks with salt and pepper, then brown them in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side. |
| 1 cup diced celery | 3. Transfer the browned shanks to a Dutch oven or slow cooker. |
| 1 cup diced onions | 4. In the same skillet, sauté the carrots, celery, and onions until they are soft and translucent. |
| 4 cups beef or vegetable broth | 5. Add the sautéed vegetables to the Dutch oven or slow cooker with the shanks. |
| 1 cup white wine | 6. Pour in the broth, white wine, and tomato sauce, ensuring the shanks are fully submerged. |
| 1 cup tomato sauce | 7. Add a bouquet garni made with bay leaves, thyme, and rosemary. |
| 1 bouquet garni (bay leaves, thyme, rosemary) | 8. Cover and simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours until the meat is tender. |
| Gremolata (lemon zest, garlic, parsley) for garnish | 9. Serve osso buco with gremolata sprinkled on top, accompanied by creamy polenta or risotto. |
Now that you have this tantalizing osso buco recipe, invite your family and friends over for a memorable Italian feast. The rich and comforting flavors of this traditional stew will transport everyone to the heart of Italy. Buon appetito!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have a curated collection of easy dinner recipes Italian classics that you can recreate at home. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting pasta dish or a flavorful meat recipe, these authentic Italian recipes will transport you to the enchanting streets of Italy and impress your family and friends.
From the best-ever beef ragu to the perfect chicken piccata, each dish is crafted with love and captures the essence of Italian cuisine. The rich flavors, aromatic herbs, and fresh ingredients are the key to creating a memorable dining experience.
So put on some Italian music, open a bottle of wine, and embark on a culinary journey in the comfort of your own home. These easy Italian dinner recipes will not only satisfy your taste buds but also create cherished moments shared with your loved ones. Buon appetito!
FAQ
What is the Best-Ever Beef Ragu recipe?
The Best-Ever Beef Ragu recipe is a delicious and comforting dish made with tender beef simmered in a rich tomato sauce. It’s the perfect comfort food that can be enjoyed on its own or served over pasta. Don’t forget to top it off with Parmesan cheese for added flavor.
How do I make Perfect Chicken Piccata?
To make Perfect Chicken Piccata, start by dredging tender chicken in flour and browning it to perfection. Then, cook it in a tangy sauce made with lemon juice, butter, and capers. Serve this classic Italian dish with your favorite pasta or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
What is the recipe for Skillet Eggplant Parm?
The recipe for Skillet Eggplant Parm is a simple yet delicious dish that layers sliced eggplant with tangy marinara sauce and plenty of cheese. Top it off with panko bread crumbs and bake it to perfection. It’s a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
How do I make White Pizza?
To make White Pizza, simply skip the traditional tomato sauce and top the pizza with a blend of three cheeses for a creamy and flavorful experience. It’s a must-try for pizza lovers looking for a unique twist on a classic dish.
What is the recipe for the Best-Ever Italian Meatballs?
The Best-Ever Italian Meatballs are packed with flavor and perfectly tender. Made from scratch, these meatballs are the ultimate comfort food and can be served with spaghetti or used in a meatball sandwich. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this classic Italian recipe.
How do I make Ricotta Gnudi?
Ricotta Gnudi is a delightful Italian pasta dish similar to gnocchi. These ricotta dumplings are light, tender, and plump, made with ricotta cheese instead of potato. Serve them with your favorite sauce or a simple brown butter and sage for a delicious meal.
What is the recipe for Burrata Salad?
Burrata Salad is a fancy twist on the classic Caprese salad. It features ripe tomatoes, creamy burrata cheese, and a shower of fresh basil and chives. This salad is bursting with flavor and texture and makes a perfect appetizer or side dish for any Italian-inspired meal.
How do I make Carbonara Pizza?
To make Carbonara Pizza, top the pizza with crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and a cracked egg. This pizza is a delicious twist on the classic pasta dish. Serve it with a side of peppery arugula for a balanced and satisfying meal.
What is the recipe for Chicken Parmesan?
Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian dish made with crispy and well-seasoned chicken smothered in a flavorful tomato sauce and topped with melty cheese. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. Serve it with pasta or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
How do I make Osso Buco?
To make Osso Buco, simmer crosscut veal shanks with aromatic vegetables and herbs until they are fall-off-the-bone tender. This traditional northern Italian stew is a make-ahead dish that tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for special occasions or weekend dinners.
