How 29 Italian Meals Turn Dinner Into A Family Affair
Dinner becomes more than just a meal with these 29 Italian recipes. They’re designed to bring families closer with shared plates, unforgettable tastes, and recipes that make everyone feel like part of something bigger. These dishes turn every dinner into a time to connect and create lasting memories.

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

If you’re craving something creamy and rich, Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta is a great pick. It’s the kind of comfort food that everyone loves, with tender chicken and pasta coated in a smooth sauce. You can easily make it at home for a rewarding meal that feels like a treat.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta
Veggie Pizza

For those who want something lighter but still filling, Veggie Pizza has you covered. It’s a great way to enjoy pizza without the heavy meat toppings, packed with fresh vegetables. You can load it with whatever veggies you have around, making it a great customizable option.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza
Tiramisu

If you’re in the mood for something sweet, Tiramisu is the way to go. It’s a no-bake dessert that’s light yet rich, with layers of cream and coffee-soaked cookies. This dessert has a nice balance of flavors, and it’s a great finish to any Italian meal. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance, so you can enjoy it without a last-minute rush.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu
Neapolitan Pizza

A classic pizza that’s simple yet packed with flavor, Neapolitan Pizza is a crowd favorite. The thin, crispy crust paired with fresh toppings makes it easy to love. It’s great for sharing with family or friends, and you can customize it with your favorite toppings.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza
Antipasto Salad

Antipasto Salad is a light yet filling option that’s perfect as a side or a main. It’s loaded with different flavors, combining fresh veggies with tasty meats and cheeses. It’s great for a family meal or for a potluck, as it can be made ahead of time and served chilled.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad
Ooni Pizza Dough

Making pizza at home is easy with Ooni Pizza Dough. It gives you a soft, chewy crust that’s perfect for all your favorite toppings. This dough recipe takes out the guesswork, making it simple to create a homemade pizza that’s as good as one from a pizzeria.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough
Million Dollar Spaghetti

When you want something hearty and filling, Million Dollar Spaghetti is a great choice. It’s a baked pasta dish with layers of cheese, sauce, and pasta, making it a comforting meal for the whole family. This dish is simple to prepare and can be made in advance, so it’s perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Artichoke Pizza

For a unique twist on pizza, Artichoke Pizza combines the creaminess of artichokes with a crunchy, crispy crust. It’s a fun way to enjoy a pizza that’s a little different from the usual. With its rich flavors, this pizza is a great option for those who want to try something new.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza
Caesar Salad

Caesar Salad is a classic that never gets old. It’s simple but full of flavor with crispy lettuce, a creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons. You can serve it as a side or make it a main dish by adding some protein. It’s easy to make, and it pairs well with any Italian meal.
Get the Recipe: Caesar Salad
Fruit Pizza

Looking for a sweet and fun dessert? Fruit Pizza gives you a crispy cookie crust topped with fresh fruit and a sweet cream cheese layer. It’s a light dessert that’s perfect for a warm day or a special occasion. You can use any fruit you like, making it customizable to your tastes. It’s a fun dessert that everyone can enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Fruit Pizza
Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap

Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap is a portable, easy meal that’s perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. It combines the classic Caesar salad with grilled chicken, wrapped up in a soft tortilla. This wrap is both fresh and filling, giving you a good balance of protein and veggies. It’s an ideal option for when you want something light but rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Salad Wrap
Garlic Aioli

If you want a simple yet flavorful dip, Garlic Aioli is perfect. It’s creamy and garlicky, adding a rich flavor to anything you pair it with. You can use it as a dip for bread, fries, or vegetables, or spread it on sandwiches for a little extra flavor. It’s easy to make and adds a special touch to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli
Marry Me Chicken Soup

Marry Me Chicken Soup is a comforting, creamy soup that’s full of flavor. It’s a rich, hearty option for a chilly night or whenever you need something cozy. The combination of tender chicken and creamy broth makes every spoonful feel like a hug in a bowl. It’s a great way to get a pleasing meal without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup
Caprese Appetizer

If you’re looking for a light, refreshing appetizer, Caprese Appetizer is the way to go. It’s a simple combination of fresh ingredients that come together perfectly. This dish is great for gatherings or as a pre-meal starter. It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require any cooking, making it perfect for busy days.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer
Italian Sliders

Perfect for serving a crowd, Italian Sliders are small but packed with flavor. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat, with layers of cheese and tasty meat. These sliders are great for a party or casual family meal. They’re fun to make and customize based on what you like.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sliders
Garlic Knots

You can’t go wrong with Garlic Knots as a side to any Italian meal. They’re soft, buttery, and full of garlicky goodness. These knots are simple to make but so fulfilling, especially when they’re hot out of the oven. They’re perfect for dipping or enjoying on their own.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna offers a lighter take on the classic lasagna. It’s filled with creamy cheese and spinach, making it a great option for those looking for a vegetarian meal. This dish is hearty enough to fill you up, but it’s a bit lighter than traditional meat lasagna.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna
Crockpot Marry Me Chicken

Cooking chicken in a crockpot makes it extra tender and easy to shred. Crockpot Marry Me Chicken brings a delicious creamy sauce that perfectly balances rich notes and smooth texture. The aroma fills the home with warmth. It’s an easy main that fits with any side.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Marry Me Chicken
Gnocchi

Serving up Gnocchi brings a bit of Italy to your kitchen. These soft, pillowy bites are always a hit with kids and adults alike. They come together in no time, making weeknight dinners a breeze. Top it with your favorite sauce, and you’ve got a meal that feels like a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi
Pizza Sauce

Making your own Pizza Sauce at home can really bring the family together. There’s something special about kids helping to spread it on their own pizzas. This rich and flavorful base plays well with all kinds of toppings. You’ll find everyone pitching in and sharing smiles over delicious homemade pizza.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce
Caprese Pesto Tarts

Caprese Pesto Tarts are perfect for a light meal or appetizer that feels fancy but is easy to make. They’re colorful and fun, which makes them great for getting the kids involved. The mix of fresh ingredients creates a refreshing bite that’s hard to resist. You’ll love how these little tarts bring everyone to the table.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts
Italian Dressing

Whipping up some homemade Italian Dressing adds a special touch to your salads. This dressing is simple but packs a punch, perfect for making greens more appealing. Kids might even enjoy salads more with this tasty addition. It’s an easy way to get everyone eating healthy and loving it.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing
Tortellini Soup

Tortellini Soup is a comfort food that’s sure to warm everyone up on any day. Each spoonful is packed with flavors that appeal to all ages. The hearty tortellini combined with a flavorful broth makes it a meal in itself. It’s quick to prepare and great for feeding a hungry family.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup
Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with a basket of Garlic Bread on the table. The smell alone will have everyone rushing to get a piece. It’s crunchy, buttery, and pairs perfectly with almost any meal. This simple side always ends up being a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread
Mushroom Pizza

Crafting a Mushroom Pizza at home is a great way to bond with your family over dinner. The earthy mushrooms add a unique twist to the classic pizza we all love. Making pizza together can turn dinner into a fun activity. It’s a delicious way to end the day with everyone enjoying their custom pies.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza
Easy Caprese Salad

An Easy Caprese Salad is a wonderful addition to any meal. It’s fresh, colorful, and extremely simple, yet feels special. This salad comes together quickly, perfect for busy nights or last-minute dinners. It brings a touch of Italy right to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Easy Caprese Salad
Pizza Pinwheels

Pizza Pinwheels are a fun and easy way to enjoy pizza flavors. These little rolls are perfect for little hands and big appetites alike. They’re great for a quick dinner or snack, and everyone can customize their own. Plus, they’re super fun to make together as a family.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pinwheels
Mushroom Risotto

Cooking Mushroom Risotto together can turn any night into a special occasion. The creamy, rich texture is comforting and filling. It’s a dish that allows everyone to take part, stirring and tasting along the way. You’ll love sitting down to enjoy this flavorful meal with your family.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto
Best Lemon Pasta

Best Lemon Pasta offers a bright and refreshing change from typical pasta dishes. It’s light, easy to make, and perfect for family dinners. The lemon adds a zing that wakes up the dish, making it interesting and gratifying. Everyone will appreciate the simple yet flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
About the Author

Hey there! I’m Mandy
Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.
She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.
She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.
