For over 100 years, Rao’s has been a beloved institution in New York City, serving up authentic Italian cuisine that tastes like Nonna used to make. From classic dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Meatballs to more modern twists like Chicken Scarpariello and Shrimp Fra Diavolo, Rao’s has earned its reputation as one of the city’s best Italian restaurants. And now, you can bring a taste of Rao’s into your own home with these 20 authentic recipes from their kitchen. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering Rao’s for the first time, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Rao’s Famous Lemon Chicken
This classic Italian-American recipe has been a family favorite for generations. Brighten up your dinner table with the tangy, flavorful combination of juicy chicken and zesty lemon.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rao’s Classic Marinara Sauce
Experience the authentic taste of Italy with Rao’s Classic Marinara Sauce, a family recipe passed down through generations. This simple yet flavorful sauce is perfect for pasta dishes, pizza, or as a dipping sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
5. Remove from heat and use immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rao’s Homemade Meatballs
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with Rao’s homemade meatballs, a classic recipe that’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are baking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Once the meatballs are done, remove from oven and carefully place them in the skillet with marinara sauce.
7. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the meatballs to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rao’s Traditional Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This beloved recipe from Rao’s, an iconic New York City Italian restaurant, is a masterclass in simplicity and flavor. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you’ll be rewarded with a spicy, savory, and satisfying spaghetti dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Red pepper flakes, optional (for added heat)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced garlic and olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic and oil mixture.
5. Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rao’s Signature Caesar Salad
A classic Roman-inspired salad that exudes simplicity yet packs a punch with its bold flavors and textures. This beloved recipe has been perfected over the years to deliver a truly unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of romaine lettuce, washed and torn into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup homemade Caesar dressing (see below)
– 1/2 cup croutons (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
Homemade Caesar Dressing:
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine romaine lettuce and croutons.
2. Drizzle homemade Caesar dressing over the salad, tossing gently to coat.
3. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
4. Season with black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Rao’s Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo
Transform your pasta night with Rao’s Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, a rich and satisfying dish that’s sure to please. This classic recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine and creamy sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rao’s Garlic Bread with Parmesan
This beloved recipe from Rao’s restaurant is a game-changer for garlic bread lovers. With the perfect balance of savory flavors and crunchy texture, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of Italian bread (12-14 inches)
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of butter, softened
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2. Slice the Italian bread into 1-inch thick slices.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly onto each bread slice, leaving a 1/2 inch border at the edges.
5. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the garlic butter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bread is toasted golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rao’s Slow-Cooked Sunday Gravy
Every Italian-American family has their own secret recipe for a rich and flavorful Sunday gravy, passed down from generation to generation. This recipe is inspired by the classic flavors of Rao’s, a beloved New York City institution.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes (fresh or canned)
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your slow cooker to low.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Transfer the mixture to the slow cooker and add the crushed tomatoes, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Stir well and cover the slow cooker.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Rao’s Eggplant Parmigiana
A classic Italian-American dish that never goes out of style, Rao’s Eggplant Parmigiana is a must-try for anyone who loves the flavors of Italy. With just a few simple ingredients and some careful preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delightful main course in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, salt, and garlic powder.
3. Dip each eggplant slice in the flour mixture, then dip in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Fry the eggplant slices in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
5. Place fried eggplant slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Spoon marinara sauce over the eggplant, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rao’s Penne alla Vodka
A classic Italian-American dish that combines the flavors of vodka-infused tomato sauce with al dente penne pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vodka-infused tomato sauce (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Vodka-Infused Tomato Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons vodka
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vodka-infused tomato sauce, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5-7 minutes.
5. Combine cooked penne pasta with the tomato sauce mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rao’s Tiramisu for Dessert
Experience the authentic Italian taste of this beloved dessert with Rao’s classic tiramisu recipe. This creamy, coffee-infused treat is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 ladyfingers
– 1 cup strong brewed coffee
– 8 oz mascarpone cheese
– 8 oz whipped cream
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 4 ounces dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
– Cocoa powder, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Dip each ladyfinger into the coffee for about 3-5 seconds on each side. They should be soft and pliable.
2. In a large bowl, combine mascarpone cheese and whipped cream. Mix until smooth.
3. To assemble the tiramisu, start with a layer of ladyfingers in a 9×13-inch dish. Top with half of the mascarpone mixture, followed by half of the dark chocolate chips.
4. Repeat the layers, finishing with a layer of mascarpone and chocolate on top.
5. Dust with cocoa powder and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None
Enjoy your delicious homemade Rao’s Tiramisu!
Rao’s Chicken Scarpariello
This beloved recipe from Rao’s, a famous New York City restaurant, is a staple of Italian-American cuisine. This chicken dish is rich in flavor, with a tangy and spicy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 8 pieces
– 1 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, white wine vinegar, parsley, basil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat.
4. Place chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rao’s Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Spice up your dinner routine with Rao’s iconic Shrimp Fra Diavolo, a classic Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with a bold and spicy tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and just done, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet; set aside.
5. Add the crushed tomatoes, white wine, tomato paste, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes or until thickened slightly.
7. Return the shrimp to the skillet; toss to coat with the sauce.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rao’s Homemade Lasagna Bolognese
A classic Italian dish gets a homemade twist with this rich and flavorful lasagna bolognese recipe. Ground beef, pork, and tomatoes come together in a hearty sauce that’s simmered to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 lasagna noodles
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef and pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 30 minutes.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of meat sauce, lasagna noodles, and cheese (Parmesan and mozzarella). Repeat two more times, ending with a layer of cheese on top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Rao’s Roasted Potatoes with Rosemary
A classic Italian-American recipe that elevates the humble potato to new heights with the aromatic flavor of rosemary. This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect as a side or as a main course.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch wedges
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange potatoes in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rao’s Braised Short Ribs
A classic comfort food dish that yields tender, fall-off-the-bone short ribs smothered in a rich and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 pounds beef short ribs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Season the short ribs with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the short ribs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium; add diced onion and cook until caramelized, about 8-10 minutes.
5. Add garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Return short ribs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until meat is tender and falls off the bone.
Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours
Rao’s Stuffed Artichokes
This classic recipe from Rao’s, a renowned New York City restaurant, brings together the flavors of garlic, breadcrumbs, and melted mozzarella to create a decadent artichoke dish that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 4 large artichokes
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut off the top inch of each artichoke, removing the tough leaves.
3. In a bowl, mix together breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each artichoke with the breadcrumb mixture, dividing it evenly among the four artichokes.
5. Place the stuffed artichokes on a baking sheet and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the leaves are tender and the cheese is melted.
6. Serve warm with additional mozzarella cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rao’s Pasta e Fagioli Soup
A hearty, comforting soup that combines pasta, beans, and vegetables in a rich tomato broth, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Simmer soup for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Add cooked pasta to the pot and stir to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rao’s Chocolate Cannoli
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this classic cannoli recipe filled with a decadent chocolate filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of Rao’s Cannoli Shells (12-15 shells)
– 8 oz. good quality dark or semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval until smooth.
2. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Set aside.
3. Fold the softened butter into the melted chocolate until well combined.
4. Gradually fold the whipped cream into the chocolate mixture until smooth and creamy.
5. Fill each cannoli shell with the chocolate filling, mounding slightly in the center.
6. Dust the filled cannoli with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including melting chocolate)
Rao’s Grilled Calamari with Lemon
A classic Italian-inspired appetizer that’s perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this grilled calamari recipe is sure to impress. With a zesty lemon butter sauce and a hint of garlic, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cleaned and patted dry squid rings
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Brush the calamari with the lemon butter mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill calamari for 2-3 minutes per side, or until slightly charred and tender.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to indulge in a culinary journey with Rao’s Authentic Recipes! This collection features 20 mouth-watering dishes that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic favorites like Lemon Chicken and Marinara Sauce to hearty pasta dishes like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio and Lasagna Bolognese, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, Garlic Bread with Parmesan, or the rich flavors of Braised Short Ribs. And for dessert, treat yourself to Tiramisu or Chocolate Cannoli. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, Rao’s Recipes are sure to become new family favorites.