Italian cuisine has a special way of bringing people together, bursting with flavors that dance on your palate. Imagine the aroma of fresh herbs and rich sauces filling your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around the table. If you’re looking to whip up something fabulous for your next celebration, these incredible Italian main course recipes will surely impress your friends and family!
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
Let’s start with a classic that never goes out of style! Spaghetti Carbonara is a heavenly dish that combines al dente spaghetti with a creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, and pancetta. The magic happens when you toss the hot pasta with the sauce, creating a silky texture that coats every strand.
This recipe is special because it’s a quick yet luxurious meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. The salty pancetta brings a wonderful depth of flavor, while the egg and cheese mixture creates a rich, comforting sauce that feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s so easy to make that you’ll want to whip it up for every gathering!
Chicken Piccata
How to host an Italian feast from Simply Delicious Food
Rating: 4.6. Ingredients: Prosciutto wrapped, cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, salami, olive oil Total Time: 10 min.
44 Italian recipes from Olive Magazine
Ingredients: Pasta
Italian recipes from BBC Good Food
Ingredients: Duck
Picture this: tender chicken breasts sautéed to golden perfection, then bathed in a lemony caper sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Chicken Piccata is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or fancy dinners alike!
This dish stands out because it perfectly balances the zesty brightness of lemon with the savory notes of capers, which adds a delightful briny touch. The best part? You can serve it over a bed of pasta, rice, or even alongside roasted vegetables for a complete meal. It’s light yet satisfying, and it never fails to impress your guests!
Eggplant Parmesan
If you’re looking for a hearty vegetarian option, look no further than Eggplant Parmesan. Layers of crispy, breaded eggplant slices are smothered in rich marinara sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese, baked until bubbly and golden. It’s a comforting dish that feels like a warm embrace!
This recipe is beloved because it transforms humble ingredients into something truly special. The eggplant becomes tender and flavorful, while the cheese melts into a creamy delight that pulls everything together. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd, and it’s so satisfying that even meat lovers will be coming back for seconds!
Osso Buco
Ready to impress? Osso Buco is a stunning Italian dish made by braising veal shanks until they’re fall-off-the-bone tender. This slow-cooked masterpiece is often served with a vibrant gremolata, adding a fresh twist that brightens the dish.
This recipe is popular for its rich, deep flavors and the luxurious experience it brings to the table. The marrow in the bone adds an incredible creaminess that elevates the dish to another level. Perfect for special occasions, Osso Buco not only tastes divine but also looks incredible plated up, making it a showstopper for any festive gathering!
Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Spinach

Easy Spinach & Ricotta Stuffed Shells from Salted Mint
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: 55 min Total Time: salted mint.
Last but definitely not least, let’s talk about Stuffed Shells with Ricotta and Spinach. These large pasta shells are packed full of creamy ricotta cheese and fresh spinach, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s like a cozy Italian hug on a plate!
This recipe is a favorite because it offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the tangy sauce, and the cheese on top gets all bubbly and golden in the oven. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak some veggies into your meal, and it’s always a hit with kids and adults alike!