12 Best Italian American Cookbooks & Recipe Books

You’re tired of mundane meals, right? Those tasteless TV dinners giving you the blues? Totally get it, pal. Here’s the scoop: ’12 Best Italian American Cookbooks & Recipe Books’. They’re your ticket to homemade heaven, bursting with flavor-packed recipes.

Top 12 Italian American Cookbooks

Here is the list of Italian American Cookbooks

  • Laura in the Kitchen: Favorite Italian-American Recipes Made Easy: A Cookbook by Laura Vitale – Best Overall
  • Big Flavors from Italian America: Family-Style Favorites from Coast to Coast by America’s Test Kitchen – Editor’s Choice
  • The Italian American Cookbook: A Feast of Food from a Great American Cooking Tradition by John Mariani – Best for Authentic Recipes
  • Lidia’s Italy in America by Lidia Bastianich – Best for Regional Dishes
  • Italian American by Angie Rito – Best Modern Take
  • The Easy Italian Cookbook by Marcello Serafini – Best for Beginners
  • The Italian Baker by Carol Field – Best for Baking Enthusiasts
  • That Sounds So Good by Carla Lalli Music – Best for Everyday Cooking
  • Carmine’s Family-Style Cookbook by Michael Ronis and Mary Goodbody – Best Restaurant-Inspired
  • The North End Italian Cookbook, 6th: The Bestselling Classic Featuring Even More Authentic Family Recipes by Marguerite DiMino Buonopane – Best Traditional Cookbook
  • American Sfoglino: A Master Class in Handmade Pasta by Evan Funke and Katie Parla – Best for Pasta Lovers
  • Bestia: Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A. [A Cookbook] by Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis – Best West Coast Influence

Laura in the Kitchen: Favorite Italian-American Recipes Made Easy: A Cookbook by Laura Vitale

Laura in the Kitchen: Favorite Italian-American Recipes Made Easy: A Cookbook by Laura Vitale

“Laura in the Kitchen: Favorite Italian-American Recipes Made Easy,” it’s evident that this is a culinary gem. Laura’s journey from Naples to the U.S. at twelve is heartwarming. She combats homesickness with pots of Italian-American delights. This cookbook? It’s a testament to that journey. It’s packed with 120 recipes that are both simple and delectably Italian-American. Imagine the aroma of Naples wafting through your kitchen. For anyone craving authentic Italian-American flavors, this is your go-to. And guess what? It’s not just a cookbook. It’s a story of passion, tradition, and love for food.

Big Flavors from Italian America: Family-Style Favorites from Coast to Coast by America’s Test Kitchen

Big Flavors from Italian America: Family-Style Favorites from Coast to Coast by America’s Test Kitchen

“Big Flavors from Italian America” by America’s Test Kitchen is a delightful journey into the heart of Italian-American kitchens. This cookbook is more than just recipes; it’s an homage to the gutsy, red-sauced, family-style dishes we’ve come to love. From simple weeknight meals to baked pastas fit for Sunday feasts, it captures the essence of this rich culinary tradition. And it’s not just about the food. Dive into stories showcasing regional gems, and get a taste of history with every page. Plus, the added bonus? Recommendations on the best ingredients to elevate your dishes. Truly, an Editor’s Choice.

The Italian American Cookbook: A Feast of Food from a Great American Cooking Tradition by John Mariani

The Italian American Cookbook: A Feast of Food from a Great American Cooking Tradition by John Mariani

The Italian American Cookbook by John Mariani is a gem. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a journey through a rich culinary tradition. The recipes? Authentic. They transport you straight to an Italian-American household, where food is love and tradition. The techniques? Time-honored. They reflect the essence of genuine Italian-American cooking. The flavors? Oh, they dance on your palate, evoking memories of grandma’s kitchen. And the best part? It’s awarded as the ‘Best for Authentic Recipes’. A must-have for those who cherish authenticity in their kitchen. And… it’s a feast for the senses.

Lidia’s Italy in America by Lidia Bastianich

Lidia’s Italy in America by Lidia Bastianich

Ah, Lidia! Her cookbook transports you straight to the heart of Italian-American kitchens. It’s not just about the recipes; it’s the stories, the memories, and the traditions. I’ve traveled extensively, tasting global flavors, and this book? It’s like a culinary hug from the Italian neighborhoods of America. The Bolognese sauce? Divine. And the pasta trio? A delightful dance of flavors on the palate. But what truly stands out is the authenticity. It’s as if every page whispers tales of Italian grandmas, family gatherings, and age-old secrets. A must-have for those who cherish genuine, heartwarming food tales.

Italian American by Angie Rito

Italian American by Angie Rito

Imagine a culinary journey that straddles the vibrant line between Italian and American. Angie Rito and Scott Tacinelli, the masterminds behind NYC’s Don Angie, present a cookbook that’s a delightful fusion of family classics and innovative riffs. From their signature pinwheel lasagna to the unexpected saucy shrimp parm meatballs, it’s a modern twist on beloved dishes. And it’s not just about restaurant recipes. This book dives deep into the heart of home-cooked meals, blending Angie and Scott’s family traditions with their own imaginative spins. It’s a refreshing, spirited introduction to a timeless cuisine, making it a must-have for every kitchen. And… the Campari & Orange Sticky Ribs? A game-changer.

The Easy Italian Cookbook by Marcello Serafini

The Easy Italian Cookbook by Marcello Serafini

Ah, the allure of Italian cuisine! Chef Marcello Serafini’s “The Easy Italian Cookbook” is a delightful journey through Italy’s culinary heart. With 77 traditional recipes, it captures the essence of regional Italian flavors. What’s striking? Its simplicity. Most dishes use just 4 to 8 ingredients, emphasizing quality over complexity. Think Spaghetti alla Carbonara, Pappardelle Wild Boar Ragù, and the sweet allure of Tiramisù. Marcello’s approach is rooted in authenticity. He celebrates dishes crafted by grandmothers, not just chefs. It’s a nod to home cooking, with a focus on local and seasonal ingredients. For beginners? It’s a gem. The book offers a genuine taste of Italy’s history, making it a delightful addition to any kitchen.

The Italian Baker by Carol Field

The Italian Baker by Carol Field

The Italian Baker by Carol Field is a gem for baking aficionados. Carol, a culinary pioneer, introduced Americans to the art of Italian baking. Ever savored a ciabatta or relished focaccia at your favorite eatery? You’ve been touched by Field’s influence. Her 1985 masterpiece, revised in 2011, unveiled breads like ciabatta, a term meaning “slipper”, and the revolutionary biga – a simple starter that transformed home baking. Field’s emphasis on wet doughs and long, cool rises birthed breads with moist interiors and crisp crusts, perfect for olive oil dips. For those passionate about authentic Italian baking, this book’s a treasure. And for baking enthusiasts? It’s the holy grail.

That Sounds So Good by Carla Lalli Music

That Sounds So Good by Carla Lalli Music

Carla Lalli Music’s “That Sounds So Good” captures the essence of approachable yet extraordinary Italian American cuisine. As an Expert Food Critic with a global palate, I find this cookbook to be a delightful journey through the heartwarming flavors of Italian American kitchens. With my passion for authentic culinary experiences, I’m drawn to Carla’s emphasis on local ingredients and traditional methods. This cookbook beautifully balances authenticity and creativity, making it a top choice for anyone seeking everyday culinary inspiration. The recipes, rich with sensory detail and vivid descriptions, reflect my communication style as they engage readers and invite them into the world of delightful flavors. “That Sounds So Good” truly resonates with my values and principles as an aficionado of genuine and mouthwatering dishes.

Carmine’s Family-Style Cookbook by Michael Ronis and Mary Goodbody

Carmine’s Family-Style Cookbook by Michael Ronis and Mary Goodbody

Carmine’s Family-Style Cookbook is a gem. Imagine walking into a bustling Italian-American restaurant, the air thick with aromas of simmering tomato sauce, fresh basil, and melting cheese. This cookbook captures that essence. Authored by Michael Ronis and Mary Goodbody, it’s a delightful journey through classic Italian dishes. The recipes? Authentic. The flavors? Bold and hearty. The techniques? Rooted in tradition. Awarded “Best Restaurant-Inspired”, it’s no wonder. Every page feels like a seat at Carmine’s iconic table. Hungry for a taste of genuine Italian-American cuisine? This book’s got your back. And… it’s a must-have for every kitchen.

The North End Italian Cookbook, 6th: The Bestselling Classic Featuring Even More Authentic Family Recipes by Marguerite DiMino Buonopane

The North End Italian Cookbook, 6th: The Bestselling Classic Featuring Even More Authentic Family Recipes by Marguerite DiMino Buonopane

The North End Italian Cookbook, penned by Marguerite DiMino Buonopane, is a gem for those seeking authentic Italian-American recipes. This edition, the 6th in its lineage, brings even more family treasures to the table. From the heart of Boston’s North End, Buonopane serves up dishes that resonate with tradition and love. The recipes? Time-tested. The flavors? Unforgettable. And the techniques? Rooted in generations of culinary wisdom. It’s no wonder this cookbook earns the title of “Best Traditional Cookbook”. For anyone yearning for a genuine taste of Italian-American heritage, this is your ticket. And… it’s a journey worth taking.

American Sfoglino: A Master Class in Handmade Pasta by Evan Funke and Katie Parla

American Sfoglino: A Master Class in Handmade Pasta by Evan Funke and Katie Parla

Ah, “American Sfoglino: A Master Class in Handmade Pasta” by Evan Funke and Katie Parla. This isn’t just a cookbook. It’s a journey into the heart of Italy, right from your kitchen. Evan Funke, a maestro of pasta, teams up with Katie Parla, taking you on a sensory ride through the art of handmade pasta. The pages are drenched with passion, detailing techniques that have been perfected over generations. And the recipes? Authentic. Each one tells a story, transporting you to the bustling streets of Bologna or a quaint Italian village. For those who’ve dreamt of mastering pasta, this is your ticket. It’s not just about food; it’s about tradition, love, and the magic that happens when flour meets water. And for pasta lovers? This is your bible.

Bestia: Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A. [A Cookbook] by Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis

Bestia: Italian Recipes Created in the Heart of L.A. [A Cookbook] by Ori Menashe and Genevieve Gergis

Ah, Bestia! A culinary gem from the heart of L.A., this cookbook is a delightful fusion of rustic Italian flavors and the vibrant spirit of the West Coast. Imagine house-made charcuterie, pizzas, and pastas crafted from scratch, all bursting with intense flavors. And the desserts? Genevieve Gergis, the co-owner and pastry chef, serves up treats like apple cider donuts and a chocolate budino tart that are simply to die for. It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an experience. A journey through Italian regional cooking with a unique West Coast twist. Every page is a testament to the innovation and passion of Bestia’s creators.

Final Say So!

Dive into the rich tapestry of Italian-American cuisine with these 12 culinary masterpieces. From the bustling streets of Naples to the vibrant heart of L.A., these cookbooks are more than just recipes; they’re stories, traditions, and a passport to flavor-packed adventures. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, these books promise a journey of passion, authenticity, and mouthwatering delights. So, why wait? Embark on a gastronomic voyage and let your kitchen resonate with the heartbeats of Italy and America combined. Buon Appetito!

Renee Searcy

Hi! I’m Renee. From a young age, I’ve been enchanted by the flavors, aromas, and the art of cooking. My journey has taken me from my family’s kitchen to working with some of the most talented chefs and culinary experts in Atlanta, GA, and beyond.

Leave a Comment