15 Italian Dinners Like Mama Used To Make
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Italian dinners are always a win for the whole family. Everyone loves them, they taste great, and leftovers make a great lunch the next day. Homemade Italian meals, made from scratch, are always the best and most authentic, even if you aren’t in Italy. Try one of these delicious dinner ideas and enjoy an Italian meal like Mama used to make.
1. Rustic Italian Pasta Salad

Dive into the rustic charm of Italy with this hearty Italian pasta salad recipe. It goes with many different types of dishes, and everyone will love it.
2. Homemade Lasagna

If you have a little extra time, making homemade lasagna from scratch is about as Italian as you can get. It’s amazing stuff and makes a full meal on its own.
3. Italian Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Yes, I’m fully aware that Shepherd’s Pie is not an Italian dish. But this Italian shepherd’s pie recipe is basically a cross between a pot pie and a shepherd’s pie with some Italian seasonings, and it’s delicious.
4. Margherita Pizza

Margherita pizza is a classic Italian pizza. Different regions in Italy take great pride in making their specific version and defend it as the best. Now, you can easily make it at home.
5. Lasagna Soup

Lasagna soup is a delicious, hearty soup that can be enjoyed with a side of garlic bread and a green salad. It’s warm, comforting, and a great way to end a busy day.
6. Orecchiette Pasta Salad

Orecchiette pasta salad is such a fun and simple recipe that uses fresh summer veggies and packs a flavorful punch that will have everyone wanting second helpings.
7. Skillet Spaghetti

Need a simple spaghetti recipe? How about this skillet spaghetti? It’s a one-pot meal that promises to satisfy even your worst hunger pangs.
8. Pasta Carbonara

This dairy-free pasta carbonara is a delicious way to enjoy pasta with a creamy sauce without any of the dairy that usually makes things creamy. This one is all about the eggs.
9. Slow Cooker Italian Meatballs

Meatball lovers will adore these slow cooker Italian meatballs. They are hearty, dense, and firm and work beautifully with any pasta you care to add them to.
10. Italian Shrimp

Italian shrimp are on a whole other level. Eat them as a main course, or add them to pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles for a delicious meal any time of day. They cook quickly and are also great for salads.
11. Homemade Marinara

Homemade marinara is a simple dish to make and can be used in many different dishes, from a simple plate of spaghetti to a more complex lasagna.
12. Italian Stuffed Chicken Breasts

These Italian stuffed chicken breasts are easy to make and make a wonderful main course with rice, orzo, or even just a side of veggies.
13. Italian Chopped Salad

If you need a nice cool meal for a hot summer evening, try this Italian chopped salad. It’s cool, refreshing, and definitely very filling.
14. Olive Pasta

Olive pasta is one of those simple meals you can throw together in just a couple of minutes once your pasta is cooked.
15. Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a family-friendly meal that everyone will love. It’s an easy casserole-style meal that will bring everyone back for second helpings.
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This originally appeared on The Gracious Pantry.