How To Make 29 Italian Dishes That Unite Everyone At The Table

Big groups, picky eaters, and people who “aren’t that hungry” somehow all find a way to clean their plates when these Italian dishes show up. This list of 29 covers a lot without getting too complicated, which is exactly what dinner should be. Whether it’s a weeknight or a weekend, these bring people together in the kind of way that makes conversation stretch longer.

Cacio e Pepe

Instantly create a classic vibe with Cacio e Pepe that unites simplicity and taste. Its effortless charm is ideal for a quiet dinner or as part of a larger, friendly gathering. Relish in the coziness it brings to your meal lineup without the fuss of complex preparation. This dish proves that sometimes less truly is more.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Caprese Appetizer

Bring a slice of Italian elegance to your table with Caprese Appetizer. It’s a fresh start to any meal and invites everyone to enjoy a moment of shared simplicity. The straightforward approach of this appetizer keeps the ambiance light and cheerful. It sets the stage for a relaxing evening with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Appetizer

French Bread Pizza

Transform everyday ingredients into a lovely meal with French Bread Pizza. This recipe offers a twist on the traditional, allowing for personal creativity in every slice. It’s perfect for a no-stress meal that still feels special. Gather around the table for a casual yet memorable dining experience.
Get the Recipe: French Bread Pizza

Caprese Pesto Tarts

Upgrade your snack time with Caprese Pesto Tarts, a fusion of classic flavors baked into perfect bites. These tarts are made for sharing, making them a hit at any gathering. They blend tradition with a touch of innovation for a uniquely fulfilling treat. Ideal for when you need something simple yet impressive.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pesto Tarts

Ooni Pizza Dough

Master the art of pizza making with Ooni Pizza Dough. This foundation is all you need to start preparing pizzas that are bound to be crowd-pleasers. Enjoy turning your kitchen into a mini pizzeria for an evening. It’s a fun way to connect and create lasting memories.
Get the Recipe: Ooni Pizza Dough

Pasta alla Norma

Explore the rich flavors of Pasta alla Norma, a beloved classic that brings warmth to any table. This dish is a beautiful display of Italian culinary tradition that is both comforting and hearty. It’s just right for those gatherings that call for a satisfying dish meant to be shared. Revel in its robust charm tonight.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Tortellini Soup

Warm up with Tortellini Soup, which brings comfort in every spoonful. Its welcoming aroma and hearty taste make it an irresistible centerpiece at dinner. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup invites everyone to linger a bit longer at the table. Enjoy the convivial atmosphere it creates.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Tortilla Pizza

Add a creative spin to pizza night with Tortilla Pizza. This is an ingenious and lighter alternative that doesn’t skimp on flavor. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for impromptu gatherings or a busy weekday. Enjoy this modern take on a classic dish that everyone can get excited about.
Get the Recipe: Tortilla Pizza

Pasta Primavera

Celebrate the freshness of spring with Pasta Primavera. This vibrant dish is packed with flavor and is as colorful as a garden in bloom. It’s a cheerful addition to any meal, promising to brighten the table and the mood. This pasta dish seamlessly brings together friendliness and freshness.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Italian Dressing

Liven up any salad with Italian Dressing, which mixes tones of tang and herb-infused freshness. It’s an easy way to add flare to your greens. Whip up a batch to keep on hand for a quick salad boost. It’s a versatile staple that enhances not just salads but can be used in other dishes too.
Get the Recipe: Italian Dressing

Gnocchi

Discover the joy of homemade Gnocchi with a dish that invites a touch of indulgence. These pillow-soft dumplings are comforting and provide a base for a variety of toppings. It’s an engaging project that yields delicious results. Enjoy preparing these treats for a truly special meal.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Enjoy layers of deliciousness with Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. This dish is all about rich flavors and creamy textures, which make every bite a pleasure. It’s perfect for a weekend meal surrounded by family or friends. The comforting taste and filling nature of this lasagna make it a perennial favorite.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Minestrone Soup

Minestrone Soup is a celebrated staple that encapsulates the essence of vegetable-rich Italian soups. Each serving delivers a hearty dose of homestyle cooking. It’s ideal for those nights when you want a fulfilling meal without too much hassle. Gather around for a bowl of warmth and wellness.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Mac and Cheese

Give an Italian twist to the classic Mac and Cheese. This version integrates familiar comfort with a hint of gourmet. Easy to prepare and universally loved, this dish is a surefire hit for any occasion. It’s a cozy addition to any meal and is guaranteed to be requested over and over again.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Artichoke Pizza

Reinvent pizza night with Artichoke Pizza, where artichokes play the starring role. This recipe gives a delicious spin on traditional pizza, introducing a new flavor profile that is both intriguing and enjoyable. It’s ideal for a dinner where you’re looking to impress without too much complexity.
Get the Recipe: Artichoke Pizza

Best Lemon Pasta

Light and refreshing, Best Lemon Pasta is a dish that effortlessly combines simplicity with a punch of citrus flavor. It’s quick to whip up, making it a favorite for last-minute dinners. The brightness of this pasta makes it a welcome addition to any meal, especially when you’re looking for something a bit different.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Mushroom Pizza

Joy in the earthy tones of Mushroom Pizza. This dish highlights the deep, savory flavors of mushrooms, paired effortlessly with classic pizza ingredients. It’s a gourmet experience that’s simple to execute. Great for a relaxed evening, this pizza ensures everyone feels at home.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pizza

Garlic Bread

No Italian meal is complete without Garlic Bread. Its crisp exterior paired with a soft, garlic-buttered inside makes it irresistible. This side dish complements any Italian main course and is a hit with diners of all ages. It’s a must-have that completes the meal and gracefully rounds out your spread.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Bread

Neapolitan Pizza

Experience the roots of traditional Italian pizza with Neapolitan Pizza. This recipe is all about minimalism and quality, focusing on basic elements that speak for themselves. Ideal for a weekend project, this pizza brings authenticity to your table. Enjoy making and eating this original style pizza tonight.
Get the Recipe: Neapolitan Pizza

Morel Mushroom Pasta

Enjoy the unique flavor of Morel Mushroom Pasta for a special occasion dish. This pasta is a celebration of seasonal mushrooms, offering a distinctive taste. It’s a fantastic centerpiece for a dinner meant to impress. Serve it when you’re aiming to offer something unexpected and full of character.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Pizza Bagels

Pizza Bagels offers a fun twist on classic pizza that’s sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. They’re perfect for quick snacks or casual parties, offering a customizable option for every taste. These mini treats are as easy to make as they are fun to eat. Invite everyone to create their personalized version tonight.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Bagels

Penne Alla Vodka

Indulge in the creamy richness of Penne Alla Vodka. This dish combines smooth sauce with perfectly cooked pasta for a truly heartening meal. It’s ideal for those moments when you need a dish that is both comforting and a bit luxurious. Gather your friends for a meal that promises warmth and good conversation.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Mushroom Risotto

Prepare a pot of Mushroom Risotto for a creamy and earthy main dish. The slow cooking process allows you to enjoy the act of making as much as eating. This risotto is perfect for a relaxing day in, where you can take your time to stir, taste, and enjoy. It epitomizes comfort cooking with an elegant touch.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

Pizza Salad

Combine crisp greens and favorite pizza toppings in Pizza Salad for a light yet satisfying meal. This dish offers a fun, healthful way to enjoy pizza flavors without the heaviness of a traditional crust. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or as a side at your next dinner party. It’s a creative spin on classic ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Salad

Mushroom Pasta

Mushroom Pasta blends hearty textures with rich flavors for a quick and hearty dish. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner where time and ease are key. This pasta serves as a comforting meal that brings people together after a busy day. Share it with your family for a guaranteed enjoyable and warm evening meal.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Garlic Aioli

Transform your dishes with Garlic Aioli, a versatile condiment that enhances both snacks and main courses. Its robust flavor complements everything from vegetables to meats. Whip up a batch to keep on hand for spreading or dipping. It’s a simple addition that adds a big impact on the flavor of your meals.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Aioli

Pizza Sauce

Pizza Sauce is the base of any great pizza, offering depth and richness in flavor. Making your own ensures freshness and the ability to customize to your liking. Use it for any pizza night, ensuring that you have the perfect backdrop for your toppings. It’s a quick, essential recipe that any pizza lover should know.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Sauce

Spaghetti Marinara

A staple that deserves a place in any kitchen repertoire is Spaghetti Marinara. Its straightforward preparation and robust flavor profile make it ideal for feeding a crowd or just a few. The sauce’s rich aroma fills the kitchen, promising a delicious meal ahead. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Garlic Knots

The perfect accompaniment to any Italian dish, with a buttery, garlicky flavor that everyone loves, is Garlic Knots. They’re quick to disappear at any gathering, thanks to their irresistible appeal. Bake a batch for your next party or family dinner. They’re not only delicious but also fun to pull apart and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots