Guys, this list of Italian recipes has changed my holiday game. It’s loaded with flavor, and gives those classic, cozy vibes while keeping things consistently delicious.
Each dish just gently makes you want to cry happy tears. This one goes in my forever files!
1. Italian Wedding Soup
This soup is AMAZING. It has all these big, bold flavors but somehow comes together so fast! It’s perfect for this packed time of year when you just need something delicious.
We love serving this with some crusty bread. It’s beautiful, it always has us going back for seconds, and it is sure to please!
2. Beef Braciole (Braciola)
Please imagine this: savory herbs, juicy tomatoes, and sharp Parmigiano and Romano cheese. Now, picture all of that tucked into a tender center of thinly sliced beef. Wow wow wow!
If you want something that feels fancy, this is it. It’s also surprisingly easy to get on the table and makes for such a show-stopping presentation.
3. Authentic Italian Fettuccine Alfredo
Oh, this is so good. Say hello to a steaming bowl of sinfully rich fettuccine. We’re talking nutty, lightly salted Parmesan cheese swimming in a silky creamy, buttery sauce. It’s a classic for a reason.
It just brings everyone together and makes them smile, which is why it feels so perfect for Christmas.
4. Chicken Penne Pasta
My go-to for an easy, flavorful meal! This one takes all those traditional Italian flavors and adds some zesty additions for a unique spin on a classic.
You need to get down to business with this. We always serve it hot with garlic bread and a salad. A holiday meal has never been so ridiculously good!
5. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
ALERT ALERT ALERT! Only a small amount of time and a few ingredients stand between you and this simple, flavorful dish. It’s all about spaghetti and fragrant garlic cooked to perfection, with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little bit of heat.
That contrast is what makes it a total standout. This is a FAVORITE for us right now!
6. Chicken Scallopini
Golden, juicy, lightly breaded pan-fried chicken cutlets. They swim in a white wine and lemon sauce with butter and parsley. This combo just elevates the juicy chicken, making it a dish everyone will love.
It’s more delicately light and creamy in a way that lets all the herbs, butter, and wine shine through in each bite.
7. Italian Sausage Spaghetti
THE FLAVOR. Juicy Italian sausage adds just the right amount of spice, and then you get Parmesan, garlic, and fresh tomatoes. It’s just not going to let you down, okay?
Is there any better feeling than smelling that enticing aroma when it’s served piping hot? It makes your mouth water.
8. Spaghetti with Pork Bolognese
This hearty dish is just so good. It’s ground pork with aromatic garlic and olive oil. You also get a tangy tomato sauce and fragrant red wine, all bathed in a rich cream sauce.
It’s rich with lots of layers of flavor. When it all simmers, the ingredients come together in total harmony.
9. Italian Meatballs
Get ready for a flavor explosion! These are savory orbs of goodness. We’re talking ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs.
They get simmered in a rich tomato sauce and are just so perfect on top of spaghetti or tucked into a crusty sub roll. YUM.
10. Authentic Pasta Carbonara
This one has a mouthwatering combo of creamy egg and cheese, plus crispy bacon. It’s an irresistible flavor!
This indulgent dish has all the creaminess of mac and cheese, but with that salty kick from the bacon. So, so good.
11. Baked Ravioli
This combination is such a winner. We’ve got Italian spices, creamy cheeses, sauces, and hearty meats. It all comes together for a unique blend of flavors.
And if you want to get creative, top it with fresh herbs or baby tomatoes! I always serve this with garlic bread and a crisp salad for a special treat.
12. Pollo alla Cacciatora (Chicken Cacciatore)
This meal is brimming with earthy flavors and is just so delectably rich. It just can’t be topped. The tender chicken soaks up the liquid and blends perfectly with the veggies and spices. Ugh. I love this.
Serve it with crusty bread for dipping or over hot polenta for an extra comforting vibe.
13. Grilled Tuscan Steak
This recipe is all about the rich flavors of rosemary, oregano, and sea salt. It’s the perfect partner for a glass of Italian red wine.
All those flavors create a perfect balance of herby, salty deliciousness. The result is just a succulent steak that will have everyone licking their plates clean.
14. Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta
This delicious meal is made with an irresistible combo of hot Italian sausage and pasta. It’s all in a tomato garlic sauce with a bit of whipping cream.
The succulent sausage, the zesty bite of garlic, and the kick of spice. This dish is a true culinary adventure!
15. Shrimp Scampi
You guys, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and parsley. You will love the bold Mediterranean flavors!
This combination creates a flavor that’s acidic and savory. And that dash of white wine at the end leaves you wanting more. YUM.
16. Lasagne al Forno
That unique flavor combo of tangy sauce, melty cheese, and al dente pasta makes for a mouth-watering experience. Prepare yourself!
The classic flavors are a fantastic symphony of deliciousness. And yes, you can add your favorite spices to make it even better!
17. Florentine Steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina or simply La Bistecca)
This dish has a distinct char-grilled flavor and that unmistakable tenderness of a simple, high-quality steak. There’s no doubt it will leave you licking your plate.
It feels fancy enough for the main highlight of your holiday meal, but it’s also easy enough for any night of the year.
18. Italian Chopped Salad
This salad combines the freshness of lettuce with juicy halved tomatoes, radicchio, chickpeas, pepperoncini, and oregano. Oh, and a sharp bite of red onion, plus provolone and mozzarella.
Because nothing makes a salad better than adding cheese! Am I right?
19. Three Meat Italian Pie
This scrumptious blend of ground beef, salami, and pepperoni all bathed in a pool of creamy cheese is just genius. The combination of spices really heightens the flavor.
It creates a balance between the meat and sauce that just can’t be topped.
20. Pesto and Red Pepper Italian Meatballs
Crunchy chunks of roasted red peppers give classic Italian meatballs a zesty kick. It’s balanced so beautifully with pesto and creamy blended ricotta cheese.
That slight sweetness from the roasted peppers is the perfect complement to the earthy, herby flavor of the pesto.
21. Italian Chicken
This Italian chicken dish is such a powerhouse of flavor. You can’t deny it! The balsamic and Parmesan blend perfectly for a unique, savory taste.
That combo is the perfect complement to the juicy chicken, vibrant zucchini, and green beans. You won’t be able to resist this.
22. Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni
This is an incredibly scrumptious Italian dish. It combines the creaminess of ricotta, the earthiness of spinach, and a layer of delicious tomato sauce.
It’s perfect for a larger group, and you can throw together a big salad as a light side. And please, don’t forget garlic bread for a truly indulgent experience!
23. Veal Saltimbocca alla Romana
Delicate veal steaks are lightly wrapped in salty prosciutto and thinly sliced sage. This traditional dish has been served in Italy for ages!
We love it alongside some roasted potatoes and asparagus for a really elegant dinner.
24. Italian Mushroom Risotto
In this dish, the creaminess of the risotto is contrasted by the lightness of the mushrooms. It’s a pairing that keeps every single spoonful interesting.
To level it up, try it with some freshly grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled over the top. It’s so bold and delightful!
25. Crispy Chicken Parmesan
Crispy chicken parmesan is the very definition of delicious. It’s easy to make and is the perfect holiday meal.
We’re talking a glorious combination of crunchy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and fragrant Italian herbs. You will fall in love with it!
26. Italian Stuffed Eggplant
This easy vegan dish is just full of flavor and so light on effort. All the ingredients combine wonderfully. It gives you such a comforting and delicious meal.
Serve it with a green salad or some crusty bread for an easy holiday dinner your family will absolutely love.
27. Classic Italian Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese
This classic recipe combines a hearty serving of ricotta, savory tomato sauce, and fresh herbs. Each layer gives the lasagna a bit more zest that makes it stand out.
I suggest serving it with a nice green salad tossed with olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan.
28. The Best Osso Buco
Osso buco is an Italian classic that is more than worth your time. The succulent veal shank is braised with vegetables and white wine.
It gives off such a complex symphony of savory and sweet flavors. It’s true flavor bliss!
29. Baked Eggplant Rollatini
This is a simple yet delicious Italian dish. It combines savory eggplant with melted mozzarella and a hearty marinara sauce. It also has just the right amount of herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan for good measure.
When these flavors come together in the oven… wow. It creates a taste sensation guaranteed to make your mouth water.
30. Simple Italian Fried Eggplant
If you’re looking for an easy holiday dish with a distinct Italian flair, this recipe is perfect for you. Serve it with a crusty baguette or polenta and a crisp side salad.
It’s a quick meal that will leave more time for last minute present wrapping!
31. Chicken Scampi Pasta
The combination of savory garlic, white wine, and fresh parsley creates the perfect balance in this tempting recipe. Enjoy it as a main dish with some crusty bread, or use it as a side dish for guests.
Either way, you just can’t go wrong with delicious chicken scampi pasta!
32. Italian Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant parm is such a classic. This vegetarian entree is sure to be met with smiles all around your Christmas table!
Serve it up with fresh side salads, or divide it into individual portions for mini eggplant appetizers. You won’t be disappointed!
33. Italian Sausage
It’s no wonder that this recipe has been used for centuries. If you haven’t tried Italian sausage yet, what are you waiting for?
Try adding it to your favorite pasta dish or serve it up on its own fresh from the oven. It’s delicious no matter how you slice it!
34. Panzanella Salad (Bread And Tomato Salad)
It’s no surprise why this perfect combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs has been a crowd favorite for ages.
The bread soaks up the salad dressing while the tomatoes bring their natural juices. This is truly one of those times when the finished product is greater than its components!
35. Slowly Braised Lamb Ragu
If the thought of succulent, slowly braised lamb in a rich and flavorful ragu makes your mouth water, this is the dish for you. It has a medley of flavors and red wine to bring out the sweet and sour notes.
That slow cooking process just takes it over the top. This delectable lamb ragu will surprise you with how good and tender it is.
36. Creamy Italian Sausage Spinach Gnocchi
The earthy taste of the spinach balances out the creaminess of this meal, while the garlic brings in a hint of pungency. And did I mention sausage is the main player in this delicious dish? It just can’t be topped.
Serve it fresh with some crusty bread and a glass of wine.
37. Chicken Saltimbocca
Chicken saltimbocca combines the classic Italian flavors of sage, prosciutto, and fontina cheese in one beautiful package. This dish might seem complex, but it’s surprisingly easy to make and even easier to devour!
Plus, it pairs well with just about any side you can imagine. Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a light salad all work.
38. Italian Stuffed Flank Steak
This dish packs a combo that is sure to knock your socks off. It combines succulent steak with prosciutto and provolone cheese, plus the aromatic kick of garlic and basil.
Not only is it absolutely delicious, but it’s also simple and easy to make.
39. Pollo Con Peperoni
This Italian classic features succulent juicy chicken breasts cooked with garlic, white wine, and thyme for an added kick of flavor.
Combined with delectable bell peppers and juicy tomatoes, this recipe ensures all the flavors merge together perfectly.
40. Panzanella Salad (Bread And Tomato Salad)
Ugh, I love this one. It’s no surprise why this perfect combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs has been a crowd favorite for ages.
The bread soaks up the salad dressing while the tomatoes bring their natural juices. This is truly one of those times when the finished product is greater than its components!