12 Best Easy Italian Cookbooks & Recipe Books

Stuck in a rut with your pasta routine? You’re not alone.

The same old spaghetti can get tiresome.

And oh, the frustration of failed lasagnas.

We get it, we’ve been there.

But hey, delicious Italian cuisine doesn’t have to be complicated.

Why not consider easy Italian cookbooks?

They’re packed with simple, mouth-watering recipes that even beginners can master.

Say arrivederci to boring dinners, and ciao bella to a world of tantalizing Italian flavors!

Top 12 Easy Italian Cookbooks

Here is the list of Easy Italian Cookbooks

  • Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan – Best Overall
  • Lidia’s Commonsense Italian Cooking by Lidia Matticchio Bastianich – Editor’s Choice
  • The Silver Spoon by The Silver Spoon Kitchen – Best Comprehensive Guide
  • Every Day Italian: 125 Simple and Delicious Recipes by Giada De Laurentiis – Best for Everyday Cooking
  • Made in Italy: Food and Stories by Giorgio Locatelli – Best for Authentic Recipes
  • Two Greedy Italians by Antonio Carluccio and Gennaro Contaldo – Best for Collaborative Cooking
  • La Cucina: The Regional Cooking of Italy by The Italian Academy of Cuisine – Best for Regional Exploration
  • Jamie’s Italy by Jamie Oliver – Best Celebrity Chef Cookbook
  • Tasting Italy: A Culinary Journey by America’s Test Kitchen and National Geographic – Best for Culinary Travel
  • Big Mamma Cucina Popolare: Contemporary Italian Recipes by Big Mamma – Best Trendy Option
  • Babbo Cookbook by Mario Batali – Best Restaurant-Inspired
  • The Glorious Pasta of Italy by Domenica Marchetti – Best for Pasta Lovers

Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan

Best Overall: Essentials of Classic Italian Cooking by Marcella Hazan A culinary masterpiece, this book is your gateway to authentic Italian cuisine.

Marcella Hazan, the “”queen of Italian cooking,”” offers a comprehensive guide that’s both accessible and inspiring.

From beginners to seasoned chefs, the book’s 704 pages are filled with techniques, ingredients, and recipes that define Italian cooking. What sets it apart?

It’s the passion and precision in teaching the taste and texture of each dish.

Whether you’re exploring the classics or venturing into new territory, this book is a must-have.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an Italian culinary journey.

And… it’s the best overall choice for anyone eager to master Italian cooking.

Lidia’s Commonsense Italian Cooking by Lidia Matticchio Bastianich

“Lidia’s Commonsense Italian Cooking” earns the ‘Editor’s Choice’ award for a reason.

Bursting with authentic flavors, this cookbook offers a delightful journey through Italian cuisine.

Lidia’s approach is both traditional and innovative, guiding you with ease and passion.

From classic pasta dishes to unique twists on old favorites, every recipe is a celebration.

The book’s charm lies in its simplicity, making Italian cooking accessible to all.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, Lidia’s wisdom and love for food shine through, inspiring creativity in your kitchen.

The Silver Spoon by The Silver Spoon Kitchen

The Silver Spoon by The Silver Spoon Kitchen – A treasure trove for Italian cuisine lovers.

Bursting with authentic recipes, this book’s a culinary journey through Italy’s rich flavors.

From appetizers to desserts, it’s got you covered.

The instructions? Clear and concise.

The ingredients? Easily accessible.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this guide’s a must-have.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a celebration of Italian gastronomy.

A comprehensive guide, indeed. Buon appetito!

Every Day Italian: 125 Simple and Delicious Recipes by Giada De Laurentiis

Best for Everyday Cooking: Giada De Laurentiis’ “Every Day Italian” is a delightful gateway to Italian-American classics.

With a focus on simplicity, this cookbook offers quick and accessible recipes perfect for everyday cooking.

From Clams Oreganata to Chocolate Tiramisù, the dishes are designed for real-life kitchens, using common pantry ingredients.

Though some critics may find it lacking in depth, its charm lies in the ease of preparation and the mouth-watering flavors.

Ideal for those new to Italian cuisine or anyone seeking a fuss-free dinner, it’s a handy companion for a flavorful me.

Made in Italy: Food and Stories by Giorgio Locatelli

“Made in Italy: Food and Stories by Giorgio Locatelli”: A Taste of Tradition ~ Giorgio Locatelli’s

“Made in Italy” isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a culinary journey.

With recipes that resonate with authenticity, this book captures the essence of Italian cuisine.

You’ll find dishes that are both simple and rich, reflecting the heart of Italy’s food culture.

The award for ‘Best for Authentic Recipes’ is well-deserved, as Locatelli’s passion for traditional methods shines through every page.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned chef, this book offers a delightful exploration of flavors, techniques, and the love for food that’s truly Italian.

Two Greedy Italians by Antonio Carluccio and Gennaro Contaldo

Best for Collaborative Cooking: “Two Greedy Italians” by Antonio Carluccio and Gennaro Contaldo Dive into a culinary adventure with “Two Greedy Italians.” This cookbook, filled with over 100 mouthwatering recipes, goes beyond clichés to reveal authentic Italian food.

What makes it a winner for collaborative cooking?

It’s the blend of North and South Italian traditions, brought to life by two renowned chefs, Antonio Carluccio and Gennaro Contaldo.

From the simplicity of Insalata di porcini to the richness of Mixed meat stew with polenta, the book offers a gastronomic journey that’s perfect for cooking together.

Whether you’re a fan of the TV series or a lover of Italian cuisine, this book’s vivid imagery and engaging narratives will transport you to Italy’s culinary heart.

So grab a friend, pick a recipe, and let the cooking collaboration begin!

La Cucina: The Regional Cooking of Italy by The Italian Academy of Cuisine

La Cucina is a culinary treasure trove.

Awarded as ‘Best for Regional Exploration,’ this cookbook takes you on a gastronomic journey through Italy’s diverse regions.

From the rustic flavors of Tuscany to the vibrant tastes of Sicily, each recipe is a celebration of authenticity.

The book’s simplicity makes it accessible, yet it’s rich in tradition and creativity.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, La Cucina invites you to explore, taste, and savor the regional cooking of Italy.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a passport to Italy’s culinary heritage.

Jamie’s Italy by Jamie Oliver

Best Celebrity Chef Cookbook: Jamie’s Italy by Jamie Oliver Jamie’s Italy isn’t just a cookbook; it’s a journey.

With a passion for Italian cuisine, Jamie Oliver takes you through the country’s gastronomic landscape, paying homage to classic dishes while seeking fresh inspiration.

This book’s more than 120 recipes, ranging from risotto to roasts, reflect the authentic flavor of Italy.

It’s not just about lemons and olives; it’s about local fishermen, family bakers, and the “”Mamas”” who’ve shared their secrets for generations.

Bursting with warmth and hospitality, this book is for anyone who loves quality food prepared with genuine passion.

A must-have for Italian food enthusiasts!

Tasting Italy: A Culinary Journey by America’s Test Kitchen and National Geographic

Embark on a culinary journey with “Tasting Italy: A Culinary Journey by America’s Test Kitchen and National Geographic.” Awarded as the ‘Best for Culinary Travel,’ this cookbook is your passport to explore Italian cuisine, region by region.

With 100 innovative, kitchen-tested recipes, it’s more than a cookbook; it’s an experience.

Savor the authenticity, creativity, and flavors that transport you to the heart of Italy.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a curious food enthusiast, this book invites you to taste, learn, and enjoy.

A must-have for those passionate about Italian gastronomy and the art of culinary travel.

Big Mamma Cucina Popolare: Contemporary Italian Recipes by Big Mamma

Big Mamma Cucina Popolare brings a trendy twist to Italian cooking.

Bursting with vibrant flavors, this cookbook captures the essence of contemporary Italian cuisine.

It’s a feast for the eyes, too, with stunning photography that’ll make you want to dive fork-first into every dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out, these recipes are accessible and downright delicious.

The book’s authentic approach, combined with a modern flair, earns it the title of “Best Trendy Option.” It’s a must-have for anyone looking to spice up their Italian culinary adventure.

And… it’s just plain fun to explore!

Babbo Cookbook by Mario Batali

A Taste of Italy in Your Kitchen Mario Batali’s “Babbo Cookbook” is like a culinary tour through the heart of Italy, right from your kitchen.

With 150 recipes, it’s a treasure trove of innovative Italian dishes that are both accessible and appetizing.

From Mint Love Letters with Spicy Lamb Sausage to Beef Cheek Ravioli, the flavors are vibrant and complex, yet the preparations are refreshingly straightforward.

The book captures the essence of Babbo Ristorante e Enoteca, Batali’s acclaimed New York City restaurant, offering a delightful blend of seasonal, local, and artisanal ingredients.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cook, this cookbook brings a piece of restaurant magic into your home, without losing an iota of tantalizing flavor.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s an experience.

And… it’s available at a great price!

The Glorious Pasta of Italy by Domenica Marchetti

The Glorious Pasta of Italy offers a delightful journey through Italy’s pasta landscape.

With authentic recipes and vivid imagery, Domenica Marchetti serves up a feast for pasta enthusiasts.

Whether you’re craving a classic Carbonara or an adventurous Orecchiette, this book’s got you covered.

It’s not just a cookbook; it’s a love letter to pasta, embracing traditional methods and local ingredients.

The creativity and passion resonate with every page, making it a must-have for those who appreciate the art of pasta-making.

A true gem for pasta lovers, it’s no wonder it’s been awarded the title of ‘Best for Pasta Lovers.’

Final Say So!

Say goodbye to mundane meals and embrace the vibrant world of Italian cuisine!

With these 12 exceptional cookbooks, you’re not just flipping through pages; you’re embarking on a culinary adventure.

From the rustic charm of traditional dishes to the contemporary flair of modern recipes, these books are your passport to Italy’s gastronomic treasures.

Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, these guides offer something for everyone.

So grab your apron, pick a book, and let the Italian cooking journey begin.

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.

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