10 Recipes for the Perfect Italian Dinner Party Menu

This Italian dinner party menu takes all the guesswork out of hosting. From the first cocktail to the final dessert, these 10 Italian-inspired recipes are a simple way to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table.

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10 Recipes for the Perfect Italian Dinner Party Menu

I would love to go to Italy one day, but since that isn’t in the cards right now, hosting an Italian-inspired dinner party is the next best thing.

Whether you’re looking to bring a taste of Italy to your dinner table for an easy weeknight meal or you’re hosting an Italian dinner party for friends and family, this roundup of dishes will make it easy.

From appetizers and drinks to desserts, these 10 recipes work perfectly together, so you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.

Bevande: Drinks for Your Italian Dinner Party Menu

Every dinner starts with a little something to sip on! These classic Italian cocktail recipes are the perfect addition to your meal.

Peach Bellini

Made with peach puree and chilled Prosecco, this peach Bellini is a simple, bubbly drink with fresh fruity flavor.

Prefer a non-alcoholic version? Just swap the Prosecco for sparkling cider or club soda for the same fizzy finish.

Antipasti: Appetizers for Your Italian Dinner Party Menu

If you need something to nibble on before the main course, these Italian-inspired appetizers are the perfect starter for your dinner.

Italian Bruschetta

Made with toasted slices of crusty bread topped with chopped tomatoes, fresh basil, garlic, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt, this easy Italian bruschetta is a simple appetizer that is ready in just 15 minutes.

To save time before dinner, prep your tomato mixture ahead of time and spoon it over the bread just before serving.

Bacon Onion and Cheese Tart

This bacon onion and cheese tart is made with a flaky pastry crust and loaded with crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and a blend of melted cheeses for a rich, savory bite.

It can be baked ahead and served warm or at room temperature, making it an easy appetizer or first course for your Italian dinner party menu.

Insalata and Zuppa: Soup and Salads for Your Italian Dinner Party Menu

Whether you prefer a fresh salad or a warm bowl of soup, adding a lighter course is a great way to start the meal. Both of these recipes are easy to pass around the table and pair perfectly with the heartier Italian dishes to follow.

Creamy Tortellini Soup with Kielbasa

If you’re looking for a warm and hearty soup to add to your menu, this creamy tortellini soup with kielbasa is a great choice.

Made with tender cheese tortellini, sliced kielbasa, and a rich, creamy broth, this Italian-inspired dish is one of our family’s favorites!

Bowtie Chicken Caesar Salad

Made with pasta, grilled chicken, crisp romaine, and creamy dressing, this bowtie chicken Caesar salad is a fresh addition to your Italian dinner party menu.

For a different twist, swap out the chicken for grilled shrimp, salmon, or sliced steak.

Primo: The Pasta Course

Everyone loves pasta, so when planning your simple Italian dinner party menu, a pasta recipe is a must! Here are a few pasta dishes that are perfect for sharing.

One Pan Lasagna Skillet Dinner

With all the flavors of a classic lasagna but half the work. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a dinner party, this one pan skillet lasagna dinner is ready in under an hour.

Just brown your meat, add your noodles, and simmer. Then top with cheese and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Secondo: The Main Course

Next up, the main course. A family-style meat dish is easy to serve and goes well with whatever pasta and sides you have on the table.

Oven Baked Meatballs with Sunday Sauce

Need an easy main dish? These oven-baked meatballs in a savory Sunday sauce are a traditional Italian dish that’s nonna-approved!

You can serve these mouthwatering meatballs with pasta. Or, simply pair them with a salad or fresh steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Contorni: Side Dishes for Your Italian Dinner Party Menu

Save room on your plate, and round out your Italian dinner party menu with one of these savory side dishes.

Air Fryer Roasted Parmesan Garlic Brussels Sprouts

Air-fried with garlic, olive oil, and Parmesan cheese, these Brussels sprouts are an easy addition to your Italian dinner party menu.

This healthy side dish is also keto-friendly. And, with minimal prep, they’re ready in just 30 minutes!

Dolce: Desserts for Your Italian Dinner Party Menu

And of course, no dinner party feels complete without something sweet. Wrap up your dinner party menu with one of these delicious Italian-inspired desserts.

Frozen Limoncello Dessert with Toasted Coconut

Italy is known for classics like tiramisu and cannoli, but did you know it’s also famous for its citrus?

Made with creamy layers and topped with toasted coconut, this frozen limoncello dessert is a refreshing way to end your meal.

No-Bake Lemon Berry Cheesecake Cups

Short on time? These no-bake lemon berry cheesecake cups only take 15 minutes to prep.

With a sweet graham cracker crust and a creamy lemon filling, this dessert is as simple as layer, chill, and enjoy!

Simple Recipes for a Memorable Italian Dinner Party

And that’s it! A simple, stress-free menu filled with delicious Italian-inspired recipes to help you create an easy and memorable meal for everyone to enjoy.

Thanks so much for stopping by. I hope these ideas inspire you to host your own celebration.

Want even more Italian-inspired recipe inspiration? Browse all of my favorite dishes HERE and follow me on Pinterest for even more dinner party and hosting ideas.

Cheers!

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