40 Italian Christmas Dinner Ideas (+ Traditional Recipes)

The smell of delicious holiday dinners already makes me hungry, and this is especially the case with Italian Christmas dinner ideas. 

From appetizers to entrees, this list has it all.

These classic Italian recipes are sure to leave your family and friends dancing with joy! 

With these holiday dishes, the aromas simmering on the stove transport you to Italian family meals from years past. 

So join me as we dig into some of the most beloved Italian Christmas dinner ideas around. Bon Appetit!

1. Spaghetti with Pork Bolognese

This hearty dish combines the earthy flavor of ground pork with aromatic garlic and olive oil.

It also has a tangy tomato sauce and fragrant red wine all bathed in a rich cream sauce. 

When simmered together, these ingredients come together like a chorus of flavor.

Each note adds to the overall harmony.

2. Lasagne al Forno

The unique flavor combination of tangy sauce, melted cheese, and al dente pasta creates a mouth-watering experience with each bite. 

Prepare yourself for an epic culinary journey. The classic flavors combine to create a fantastic symphony of deliciousness! 

Did I mention you can also add your favorite spices to make it even better?

3. Beef Braciole (Braciola)

Imagine savory herbs mixed with juicy tomatoes and sharp Parmigiano and Romano cheese.

Then all that gets combined with a tender center of thinly-sliced beef. Delizioso! 

If you’re looking for something fancy, beef braciole is for you! It’s easy to prepare and makes for an impressive presentation.

4. Classic Italian Lasagna with Ricotta Cheese

This classic recipe combines a hearty serving of ricotta cheese, savory tomato sauce, and fresh herbs. 

Each layer gives the lasagna a bit more zest that stands out above all the rest.

I suggest serving it with a nice green salad tossed with olive oil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

5. Three Meat Italian Pie

This scrumptious blend of ground beef,  salami, and pepperoni bathed in a pool of creamy cheese is the brainchild of a master chef. 

The combination of spices heightens the flavor profile.

It creates a balance between the meat and sauce that can’t be topped.

6. Shrimp Scampi

The recipe combines succulent shrimp with olive oil, garlic, lemon, and parsley. You’ll love the bold Mediterranean flavors! 

The combination of these ingredients creates a flavor that’s acidic and savory.

But it’s finished off with a dash of white wine to leave you wanting more.

7. Crispy Chicken Parmesan

Crispy chicken parmesan is the very definition of delicious. It’s easy to make and makes for a perfect holiday meal. 

It’s a glorious combination of crunchy chicken, tangy tomato sauce, and fragrant Italian herbs. You’ll fall in love with it!

8. Grilled Tuscan Steak

This recipe combines the rich flavors of rosemary, oregano, and sea salt.

It’s the perfect company for a glass of Italian red wine. 

All these flavors come together for a perfect balance of herby-salty deliciousness. 

The result is an absolutely succulent steak that will have your family and friends licking their plates clean.

9. The Best Osso Buco

Osso buco is an Italian classic that’s more than worth your time.

The succulent veal shank is braised with vegetables and white wine. It gives off a complex symphony of savory and sweet flavors.

It’s true flavor-bliss! 

10. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

This simple yet flavorful dish features spaghetti and fragrant garlic cooked to perfection.

There’s also a generous sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some heat. 

The combination is what really makes this dish stand out, as the flavor contrast between the two comes together nicely.

11. Italian Stuffed Flank Steak

This dish packs a combo sure to knock your socks off.

It combines succulent steak with prosciutto and provolone cheese, plus the aromatic kick of garlic and basil,

Not only is Italian stuffed flank steak absolutely delicious, but it’s also simple and easy to make. 

12. Pollo alla Cacciatora (Chicken Cacciatore)

Brimming with earthy flavors and full of cooked-down succulence, this delectably rich meal can’t be topped.

The tender chicken soaks up the cooking liquid and blends perfectly with the embedded tastes of veggies and spices. 

Enjoy it with a slice of fresh crusty bread for dipping. Or, try it over hot polenta for an extra comforting twist.

13. Authentic Pasta Carbonara

Pasta Carbonara has a mouthwatering combination of creamy egg and cheese, plus crispy bacon.

It’s an irresistible flavor that you won’t soon forget. 

This indulgent dish has all the creaminess of macaroni and cheese, with a salty kick from the bacon.

14.  Florentine Steak (Bistecca alla Fiorentina or simply La Bistecca)

This dish has a distinct char-grilled flavor and the unmistakable tenderness of simple, high-quality steak.

There’s no doubt that it’ll leave you licking your plate. 

It’s fancy enough to serve as the main highlight of your holiday meal. But it also makes for an easy dinner any night of the year.

15. Italian Wedding Soup

Given all its bold flavors, this soup comes together surprisingly quickly.

So it’s perfect for this busy time of year when you’re craving something amazing. 

Serve up your homemade Italian wedding soup with some crusty French bread for a meal that is sure to please!

16. Italian Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant parm is such a classic. This vegetarian entree is sure to be met with smiles around your Christmas table!

Serve it up with fresh side salads, or divide it into individual portions for mini eggplant appetizers.

Either way, you won’t be disappointed!

17. Italian Mushroom Risotto

In this dish, the creaminess of the risotto is contrasted by the lightness of the mushrooms.

This pairing keeps every spoonful interesting. 

To level it up even more, try it with some freshly-grated Parmesan cheese sprinkled over the top. It’s bold and delightful!

18. Chicken Scallopini

This recipe features lightly-breaded and pan-fried chicken cutlets cooked in white wine and lemon sauce with butter and parsley. 

The combination elevates the flavor of the juicy chicken cutlets, making this a tantalizing dish that anyone would enjoy.

19. Italian Stuffed Eggplant

This easy vegan dish is full of flavor and light on effort.

All the ingredients combine wonderfully to give you a comforting and delicious meal. 

Serve it with a green salad or some crusty bread for an easy holiday dinner your family will love.

20. Chicken Scampi Pasta

The combination of savory garlic, white wine, and fresh parsley creates the perfect balance in this tempting recipe.

Enjoy it as a main dish along with some crusty bread, or use it as a side dish for guests.

Either way, you can’t go wrong with delicious chicken scampi pasta!

21. Simple Italian Fried Eggplant

If you’re looking for an easy holiday dish with a distinct Italian flair, this recipe is perfect for you. 

Serve it with a crusty baguette or polenta and a crisp side salad.

It’s a quick meal that will leave more time for last-minute present wrapping.

22. Chicken Piccata

Chicken piccata is an Italian classic that’s bursting with flavor.

It features thinly-sliced chicken smothered in a savory-tart combination of white wine, lemon juice, capers, and butter.

Serve it over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or on top of golden spaghetti noodles.

This make-ahead meal is as simple as it is delicious.

23. Veal Saltimbocca alla Romana

Delicate veal steaks are lightly wrapped in salty prosciutto and thinly-sliced sage. This traditional dish has been served in Italy for ages.

 Serve it alongside some roasted potatoes and asparagus for an elegant dinner. 

24. Chicken Saltimbocca

Chicken saltimbocca combines the classic Italian flavors of sage, prosciutto, and fontina cheese in one beautiful package. 

This dish might seem complex, but it’s surprisingly easy to make and even easier to devour!

Plus, it pairs well with just about any side you can imagine.

Mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or even a light salad all work well.

25. Chicken Penne Pasta

Chicken penne pasta is an easy-to-make, flavorful meal.

It combines traditional Italian flavors with some zesty additions, creating a classic dish with its own unique spin. 

Serve it hot alongside some warm garlic bread and salad. A holiday meal has never tasted so good!

26. Creamy Italian Sausage Spinach Gnocchi

The earthy taste of the spinach balances out the creaminess of this meal, while the garlic brings in a hint of pungency. 

And did I mention sausage stars as the main player in this delicious dish? It can’t be topped.

Serve it fresh with some crusty bread and a glass of wine for your evening meal.

27. Slowly Braised Lamb Ragu

If the thought of succulent, slowly braised lamb in a rich and flavorful ragu makes your mouth water already, this is the dish for you. 

It has a medley of flavors and red wine to bring out the sweet and sour notes. The slow cooking process takes it over the top.

This delectable lamb ragu will surprise you with how good and tender it is.

28. Baked Eggplant Rollatini

This is a simple yet delicious Italian dish that combines savory eggplant with melted mozzarella and hearty marinara sauce.

It also has just the right amount of herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan for good measure. 

When these flavors come together in the oven, it creates a taste sensation guaranteed to make your mouth water. 

29. Italian Meatballs

Get ready for a flavor explosion with traditional Italian meatballs!

These savory orbs of goodness are made with ground meat mixed with breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs.

Simmered in a rich tomato sauce, they’re perfect atop a bed of spaghetti or nestled into a crusty sub roll.

30. Italian Sausage Spaghetti

Juicy Italian sausage adds just the right amount of spice to this pasta classic.

It’s rounded out with Parmesan cheese, garlic, and fresh tomatoes. 

Together, they create an enticing aroma that will make your mouth water when served piping hot!

31. Baked Ravioli

The combination of Italian spices, creamy cheeses, sauces, and hearty meats is such a winner.

It all comes together to create a unique blend of flavors unlike anything else. 

To get even more creative, why not top it off with fresh herbs or even baby tomatoes?

As for what to serve with ravioli, I recommend garlic bread and a crisp salad for a special culinary treat.

32. Pollo Con Peperoni

This Italian classic features succulent juicy chicken breasts cooked with garlic, white wine, and thyme for an added kick of flavor. 

Combined with delectable bell peppers and juicy tomatoes, this recipe ensures the flavors merge together perfectly.

33. Italian Chopped Salad

This salad combines the freshness of lettuce with juicy halved tomatoes, radicchio, chickpeas, pepperoncini, and oregano. 

There’s also a sharp bite of sliced red onion, plus provolone and mozzarella cheese for good measure.

Nothing makes a salad better than adding cheese!

34. Spicy Italian Sausage Pasta

This delicious meal is made with an irresistible combination of hot Italian sausage and pasta.

It’s combined in a tomato-garlic sauce, and a bit of whipping cream. 

The succulent sausage is complemented by the zesty bite of garlic and the kick of spice. 

This dish is a true culinary adventure!

35. Italian Sausage

It’s no wonder that this recipe has been used for centuries. If you haven’t tried Italian sausage yet, what are you waiting for? 

Try adding it to your favorite pasta dish or serve it up on its own fresh out of the oven. It’s delicious no matter how you slice it!

36. Authentic Italian Fettuccine Alfredo

Italian fettuccine Alfredo is a sinfully rich dish.

It combines nutty and lightly salted Parmesan cheese with a creamy, buttery sauce. 

It’s a true classic that always brings people together and makes them smile.

Serving it at Christmas is only fitting!

37. Italian Chicken

This Italian chicken dish is a powerhouse of flavor that you can’t deny! 

The balsamic and Parmesan blend together perfectly to create a unique savory taste.

The combo provides the perfect complement to the juicy chicken, vibrant zucchini, and green beans. 

You won’t be able to resist taking a bite! 

38. Pesto and Red Pepper Italian Meatballs

Crunchy chunks of roasted red peppers give the classic Italian meatballs a zesty kick.

It’s then balanced beautifully with pesto and creamy blended ricotta cheese. 

The slight sweetness from the roasted peppers really complements the earthy herby flavor of the pesto. 

39. Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

This is an incredibly scrumptious Italian dish.

It combines the creaminess of ricotta cheese, the earthiness of spinach, and a layer of delicious tomato sauce.

It’s perfect for serving a larger group, and you can throw together a big salad as a light side dish.

Don’t forget to break out some garlic bread for a truly indulgent experience!

40. Panzanella Salad (Bread And Tomato Salad)

It’s no surprise why this perfect combination of crunchy bread, juicy tomatoes, garlic, and fragrant herbs has been a crowd favorite for ages. 

The bread soaks up the salad dressing while the tomatoes bring their natural juices to the plate.

This is truly one of those times when the finished product is greater than its components!