Lasagna al Forno
Lasagna is a traditional Italian favorite and a beloved comfort food, especially for Sunday dinners. Layers of fresh pasta, rich meat ragu, creamy béchamel sauce, and generous amounts of cheese are baked to perfection. The dish is hearty and filling, making it ideal for gatherings. Lasagna is easy to prepare ahead, allowing the flavors to blend and intensify, and then simply baked right before dinner.
Spaghetti alla Carbonara
This Roman classic is a must-have for a traditional Italian meal. Made with just a few ingredients—spaghetti, eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, guanciale (cured pork cheek), and black pepper—carbonara is surprisingly rich and satisfying. The creamy sauce, made by combining the heat of the pasta with egg yolks and cheese, clings to each strand of spaghetti. It’s quick to prepare and brings authentic Italian flavor to the table.
Osso Buco alla Milanese
Osso Buco, meaning “bone with a hole,” is a Milanese specialty made from braised veal shanks cooked with vegetables, white wine, and broth. Slow-cooked until tender, the meat falls off the bone, while the marrow inside the bone adds a deep richness to the dish. Traditionally served with gremolata (a blend of lemon zest, garlic, and parsley), Osso Buco is often paired with risotto, making it a comforting and flavorful Sunday dinner choice.
Eggplant Parmigiana (Melanzane alla Parmigiana)
Eggplant Parmigiana is a layered dish made with fried eggplant, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Baked until golden and bubbly, this vegetarian dish has a crispy top with a tender, cheesy interior. Each bite combines the sweetness of tomato sauce, the creaminess of melted cheese, and the earthy richness of eggplant. It’s a satisfying main course for vegetarians or a delicious side to accompany roasted meats.
Roast Pork (Arrosto di Maiale)
Italian roast pork, or arrosto di maiale, is a succulent roast that’s perfect for special family dinners. The pork is usually seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and other herbs, then slow-roasted until tender and juicy. Often served with roasted potatoes and vegetables, this dish is both simple and flavorful. The savory aromas and tender meat make it a standout main course that’s sure to impress the family.
Risotto alla Milanese
Risotto alla Milanese is a creamy, comforting rice dish flavored with saffron, which gives it a beautiful golden color. This dish is typically cooked in a broth until the rice is soft and creamy, while Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese adds richness. Risotto alla Milanese pairs beautifully with Osso Buco but can also be enjoyed as a standalone main dish, especially for those who appreciate rich, warm flavors on a Sunday evening.
Baked Ziti (Pasta al Forno)
Baked ziti is an Italian-American classic that’s perfect for large gatherings. Made with ziti pasta, tomato sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and sometimes ground beef or sausage, this dish is hearty, filling, and ideal for sharing. After baking, the cheese melts into the pasta, creating a warm, gooey casserole that’s easy to portion out. Baked ziti is perfect for those who want a comforting, fuss-free Sunday dinner that everyone will love.
Pollo alla Cacciatora (Hunter’s Chicken)
Pollo alla Cacciatora, or Hunter’s Chicken, is a rustic Italian dish made by braising chicken with tomatoes, bell peppers, onions, garlic, and herbs. The dish has a savory, slightly tangy flavor that’s perfect for a cozy family meal. Traditionally cooked in a large pot, this dish is best enjoyed with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting, one-pot meal that’s both simple to prepare and satisfying to eat.
Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce
Potato gnocchi, fluffy little dumplings, are a popular Italian comfort food that pairs beautifully with pesto sauce. Made from basil, pine nuts, garlic, Parmesan, and olive oil, pesto has a fresh, herby flavor that complements the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi. Gnocchi with pesto sauce is both light and satisfying, making it a versatile dish for a Sunday dinner. It’s also easy to customize with seasonal vegetables or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.
Stuffed Bell Peppers (Peperoni Ripieni)
Stuffed bell peppers are a colorful and flavorful addition to an Italian family dinner. Filled with a mixture of rice, ground meat, tomatoes, herbs, and cheese, they’re then baked until the peppers are soft and the filling is golden and bubbling. This dish is not only delicious but also visually appealing, adding a pop of color to the dinner table. They’re easy to make ahead and reheat, making them a convenient option for large family gatherings.
Tiramisu
No Italian family dinner would be complete without a sweet ending, and tiramisu is the perfect choice. This beloved Italian dessert is made by layering coffee-soaked ladyfingers with a creamy mixture of mascarpone cheese, eggs, and sugar, then dusting the top with cocoa powder. Tiramisu has a light, fluffy texture and a delicious blend of coffee and chocolate flavors. It’s an ideal dessert to prepare in advance and serve chilled, allowing the flavors to meld together.
