The last thing we all need for these busy times is a recipe that’s laborious, no matter how delicious. From start to finish, this recipe took about 40 minutes and most of that time is just oven time where the gnocchi sizzles away to bubbly, golden brown, cheesy perfection.

When a pizza craving hits, I usually want something classic. And classic pizza for me means something meaty, cheesy and spicy. Enter my spicy Italian pie with mozzarella, ricotta, sweet Italian sausage and spicy pickled peppers for a perfect pizza pie bite.

Lately I’m all too obsessed with this somewhat unconventional eggplant parm recipe that has not one, but three cheeses, crispy breadcrumb topping and golden brown, roasted eggplant. It is utterly divine!

This shrimp penne alla vodka is the perfect time-saving yet comforting dish. Throwing this together takes no longer than 30 minutes from start to finish and uses just a few simple ingredients.

And while the time-saving factor is all well and good, let’s be real: this is really all about the FLAVOR. The vodka sauce alone is worth licking your bowl clean for. It's bold, tangy, perfectly creamy yet surprisingly light. Subtle hints of warm spice and garlic add a much appreciated layer of flavor, along with bright, fresh basil that pair perfectly with shrimp. It's a dish you’ll easily want to eat and cook day after day!

My meatballs are messy, but in my book? Messy = perfect. Juicy, decadent and let’s not forget super cheesy, they are perfect for getting down with your messy side.

I make my infamous bruschetta with my classic vinaigrette, lots of fresh tomatoes, red onion and basil. And for something different, I add a nice healthy handful of rich Gorgonzola crumbles. Don’t knock it ‘til you try it!

This show-stopping pasta dish will be ready and on your table in a little over 30 minutes. But it's also elegant enough for your next girls' night in or date night. It may just be the perfect recipe.

I sometimes refer to my family favorite pasta fagioli as "Italian chili" because it's hearty, warm and comforting like your standard chili with an Italian twist, of course! Try it for yourself and you’ll see why it’s beloved in our fam.

Butternut Squash Risotto with crisp pancetta was the dish that made me fall in love with butternut squash to begin with. Creamy, rich and decadent, it's a real treat, my friends.

I don't know about you, but I like my tomato/spaghetti sauces to be super bold, complex and warming, with just the slightest kick of heat. This sauce checks all of those things off my list and then some, plus it comes together in your handy, dandy slow cooker!

If you ask me, a big bowl of carbs always pleases. A big bowl of carbs with bacon and cream sauce? Even better in my book! Rich and creamy yet surprisingly light, this carbonara is perfect for date night.

I've perfected my eggplant parm recipe to be quick, easy, and less messy, because a frying mess in your kitchen is simply no bueno. It's also great for entertaining, a date night or just a good, quick weeknight meal.