Introduction

At Tommy Sugo, we believe Italian cooking isn’t just about food – it’s about family, comfort, and a whole lot of flavour. Whether you’re just getting started in the kitchen or you’re a pasta fanatic with a rolling pin at the ready, we’ve got Italian food recipes – and even pizza catering options – that will transport you straight to Nonna’s table, even if you’re simply warming up one of our ready-made meals (we won’t judge!).

From the rich, deep flavours of slow-cooked sauces to the light, airy texture of gluten-free gnocchi, Perth’s food lovers have never had it so good. So, pop the kettle on, pour yourself a cheeky glass of vino, and let’s take a journey through some of our favourite Italian recipes – many of which you’ll also find on our menu.

What You’ll Discover in This Culinary Journey

• Authentic Italian food recipes that stay true to tradition.

• Perfect dishes for Perth families, busy professionals, and food lovers.

• How to mix classic Italian flavours with fresh WA produce.

• Easy-to-follow cooking methods for any skill level.

• Clever shortcuts (including ready-made options) for those busy nights.

The Art of the Sauce – The True Star of the Meal

In Italy, the sauce isn’t just an afterthought – it’s the soul of the dish. While pasta often takes the spotlight, the sauce is what creates those memorable flavours that linger long after the last bite.

Our Harvey Beef Lasagne Sauce
We slow-cook premium Harvey Beef until it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender. The beef simmers gently with ripe tomatoes, fresh herbs, and just enough red wine to create a rich, layered flavour that feels like a warm hug.

Make-At-Home Tomato Sugo
Chop up ripe WA tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and add a drizzle of the best olive oil you can find. Let it bubble away slowly until thick and glossy. The result is a sauce that’s simple, fresh, and full of sunshine.

Pro Tip – Make extra and freeze it. Your future self will thank you when dinner needs to be quick but flavour still matters.

Pasta – Fresh vs Dried and Why Both Matter

Fresh pasta is tender, silky, and soaks up sauces beautifully – perfect for dishes like our ricotta ravioli. On the other hand, dried pasta has that satisfying al dente bite and holds up well with heavier sauces. Each has its own charm, and knowing when to use which is a sign of a true pasta lover.

Our Gluten-Free Gnocchi
Crafted with potato and rice flour, our gluten-free gnocchi is soft, pillowy, and without the grainy texture that can sometimes sneak into gluten-free cooking. Because everyone deserves to enjoy authentic Italian food recipes without compromise.

How to Boil Pasta Like a Pro
Salt the water generously – it should taste like the sea. Don’t add oil. Stir the pasta while cooking, and always taste before draining to ensure perfect doneness.

Fillings That Deserve a “Mamma Mia!”

Italian food recipes are often defined by what’s inside the pasta, and our favourites are crowd-pleasers:

• Spinach & Ricotta – The perfect balance of creamy and fresh, ideal for ravioli, cannelloni, or stuffed shells.

• Beef & Red Wine Ragu – Slow-cooked beef with rosemary and red wine creates a hearty, indulgent filling.

• Lentil & Kale – A vegetarian hero dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of earthy depth.

Comfort Food for Perth’s Busy Lifestyles

Lasagne Layers of Love
Layer after layer of slow-cooked sauce, fresh pasta sheets, and rich cheese – lasagne is the ultimate comfort food. While making it from scratch is a labour of love, having a ready-made option in the freezer is a lifesaver for busy nights.

The Magic of Macaroni
Our macaroni with broccoli, cauliflower, and cheese is a hit with kids and adults alike. For extra indulgence, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake until golden and crunchy.

Freezer-Friendly Meals That Taste Fresh
Sometimes life gets hectic. That’s why we create frozen meals designed to taste like they were made fresh that very day. No preservatives, no compromises – just pure comfort food.

Saucy Secrets from Our Kitchen

• Garlic, Onion, Olive Oil – This trio is the foundation of countless Italian recipes. Cook them gently to coax out their full flavour.

• Wine in Cooking – Red wine adds depth to meat sauces, while white wine enhances seafood dishes. Always use wine you’d actually drink.

• Fresh vs Dried Herbs – Fresh herbs bring a light, aromatic touch. Dried herbs, like oregano, provide a bold punch. Use each where they shine.

Cheese – The Crowning Glory

Italian food recipes often finish with a generous dusting or melting of cheese – and for good reason.

• Ricotta – Soft, creamy, and perfect for fillings.

• Mozzarella – Stretchy, gooey, and ideal for bakes.

• Parmesan – Nutty, salty, and unbeatable when freshly grated.

Béchamel Sauce Made Simple
A mixture of butter, flour, and milk whisked into creamy perfection. It’s the secret behind many pasta bakes and adds a luxurious texture to layered dishes.

Vegan Cheese That Surprises
We’ve perfected a cashew-based cream that delivers richness without dairy. It’s so convincing most people don’t realise it’s vegan – proof that plant-based Italian food recipes can be every bit as indulgent.

Where Fits into Our Story

Our passion for creating authentic Italian meals is where keyword truly comes alive. It’s not just about cooking – it’s about celebrating the connection between people, ingredients, and tradition. Whether it’s a midweek dinner or a special family gathering, our recipes are built to bring joy to the table.

Why Perth Loves Our Italian Food Recipes

We use local ingredients wherever possible – WA tomatoes, fresh herbs from nearby growers, and premium Harvey Beef. Supporting our community while delivering bold, fresh flavours is part of our DNA.

Whether you’re in the heart of Leederville or out in Kalamunda, our dishes are designed to bring warmth and comfort, no matter the distance from Italy.

Conclusion

From the slow-simmered depth of a ragu to the delicate folds of handmade pasta, every recipe we share carries the heart of Italian tradition. We blend authentic cooking methods with an Aussie sense of fun, ensuring every dish feels special yet completely doable.

So, next time you’re craving something rich, comforting, and packed with flavour, remember – you don’t need a plane ticket to enjoy the best of Italy. Sometimes, all it takes is a pot on the stove, a sprinkle of fresh herbs, and a little love.