25+ Hearty Italian-American Favorite Recipes You Need to Try Today

Italian-American cuisine is an enduring fusion of the rich flavors of Italy with the influences of American culture, creating comforting and mouthwatering dishes that have become staples in households across the United States.

From the crispy, golden perfection of Chicken Parmesan to the gooey, cheesy goodness of Baked Ziti, these dishes have earned their place in kitchens everywhere.

Whether you’re a fan of classic pasta recipes, hearty casseroles, or indulgent desserts, Italian-American cooking offers a vast array of options that cater to every taste and occasion.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into 25+ beloved Italian-American recipes that will make your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria, with flavors that will satisfy both the traditionalist and the modern palate.

These recipes are perfect for family gatherings, cozy dinners, or simply enjoying a taste of Italy at home.

Get ready to indulge in a variety of dishes that blend the best of both worlds.

25+ Hearty Italian-American Favorite Recipes You Need to Try Today

Italian-American recipes are beloved not only for their comforting flavors but also for their versatility and ability to bring people together around the table.

From savory pasta dishes and indulgent meats to flavorful sides and desserts, these recipes are perfect for creating memorable meals that can be enjoyed by all.

By incorporating these 25+ Italian-American favorites into your cooking routine, you’ll experience the joy of homemade dishes that reflect the heart and soul of Italian-American cuisine.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and start cooking these timeless favorites for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Classic Meatball Parmesan Sub

A hearty and satisfying sandwich, the Classic Meatball Parmesan Sub is a beloved Italian-American dish that combines tender, flavorful meatballs in marinara sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese, all served on a warm sub roll. It’s the perfect comfort food for any occasion, from a casual family dinner to a game day treat. This dish brings together the rich flavors of Italy with a touch of American ingenuity, making it a staple in Italian-American households.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/4 cup bread crumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 4 sub rolls
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, bread crumbs, Parmesan, egg, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
3. Shape the meat mixture into 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size you prefer.
4. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of oil. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 3-4 minutes per side. Transfer to a plate when browned.
5. In the same skillet, pour in the marinara sauce and bring to a simmer. Add the meatballs back in and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fully cooked through.
6. Split the sub rolls and place them on a baking sheet. Spoon meatballs and sauce into each roll. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil, if desired, and serve warm.

The Classic Meatball Parmesan Sub is a comforting and satisfying meal that embodies the heart of Italian-American cuisine. With tender meatballs in marinara sauce and gooey melted mozzarella, it’s a dish that brings families together around the table. The simplicity of the recipe combined with the bold flavors makes it an undeniable favorite, perfect for lunch, dinner, or any casual gathering. Add a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is an elegant yet easy-to-make Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a savory Marsala wine sauce with mushrooms. The rich, slightly sweet wine enhances the umami flavors of the dish, creating a delicious and satisfying meal. This dish, often served with pasta or mashed potatoes, is a restaurant favorite that can be recreated at home with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 3/4 cup Marsala wine
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each breast in flour, shaking off any excess.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and browned.
4. Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Add the chicken broth and continue to simmer for another 5 minutes.
6. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7. Stir in the butter to create a smooth, glossy sauce.
8. Serve the chicken with the sauce spooned over the top and garnish with fresh parsley.

Chicken Marsala is the perfect blend of sophistication and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The savory, wine-based sauce adds depth to the tender chicken, while the mushrooms provide an earthy richness. This dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser and pairs wonderfully with pasta, rice, or even a side of steamed vegetables. Easy to prepare yet impressive, Chicken Marsala is a classic Italian-American favorite that will never go out of style.

Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is an Italian-American classic that combines al dente ziti pasta with a rich and cheesy tomato sauce, baked to perfection with layers of gooey mozzarella and creamy ricotta cheese. This dish is the epitome of comfort food and is perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. The warm, cheesy goodness makes this dish irresistible and a must-have for any pasta lover.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 4 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Boil the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed.
3. In a baking dish, layer the marinara sauce, followed by a layer of cooked ziti. Add a layer of the ricotta mixture and top with more marinara sauce. Repeat until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of marinara sauce on top.
4. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the top and bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Let the baked ziti rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella is the perfect combination of cheesy, saucy goodness that satisfies even the pickiest eaters. This dish is an Italian-American classic that’s easy to make yet feels like a special treat. The creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella provide a comforting texture, while the marinara sauce offers a bright, tangy flavor that ties everything together. It’s ideal for family gatherings, potlucks, or any time you crave a hearty pasta dish. Make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers—you’ll be glad you did!

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is a bright and flavorful Italian-American dish that combines succulent shrimp with garlic, butter, lemon, and white wine, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. The sauce is light yet indulgent, creating a delicate balance of flavors that highlight the sweetness of the shrimp. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, delivering a restaurant-quality experience right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz linguine or spaghetti
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white wine (such as Chardonnay)
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the white wine, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to reduce slightly.
5. Stir in the butter and pasta water, whisking until the butter is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet, then toss the cooked pasta into the sauce. Stir to coat the pasta and shrimp evenly.
7. Sprinkle with fresh parsley, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve immediately.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta is the ultimate indulgence in Italian-American cuisine, offering a bright and savory combination of flavors that are both rich and refreshing. The delicate garlic butter sauce complements the sweetness of the shrimp, while the pasta absorbs all the deliciousness for a satisfying bite in every forkful. This dish is quick to prepare but feels sophisticated, making it perfect for a casual dinner or an elegant evening with guests. Pair it with a glass of white wine and enjoy a taste of the coast in your own home.

Italian Sausage and Peppers Sandwich

The Italian Sausage and Peppers Sandwich is a street-food classic that’s a staple in Italian-American cuisine. This simple yet satisfying dish features juicy sausage links cooked with sweet bell peppers, onions, and a savory tomato sauce, all nestled in a crusty hoagie roll. It’s a no-fuss meal that’s full of bold flavors, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, and always a hit at barbecues or gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausage links (mild or spicy)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 bell peppers, sliced (red and green)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 hoagie rolls
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until browned on all sides. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and bell peppers. Cook for 8-10 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Return the sausages to the skillet, then pour in the marinara sauce. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, allowing the sausages to cook through and the flavors to meld together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Slice the hoagie rolls and lightly toast them. Once toasted, spoon the sausage, peppers, and sauce into each roll.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, and serve hot.

The Italian Sausage and Peppers Sandwich is a satisfying, flavorful meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a gathering with friends. The juicy, savory sausages pair perfectly with the tender peppers and onions, all wrapped up in a toasted roll that holds everything together. Whether enjoyed at home or as a portable meal for a picnic, this sandwich is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s a delicious example of Italian-American street food at its best, combining bold flavors and simple ingredients for a dish everyone can enjoy.

Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting, crispy, and cheesy Italian-American classic that’s loved by vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Layers of thinly sliced, breaded eggplant are baked until golden and tender, then smothered in marinara sauce and topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish offers all the flavors of a traditional lasagna, but with a delightful vegetable twist that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• Salt for drawing out moisture
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the sliced eggplant in a colander and sprinkle with salt. Let sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station: Place the flour in one shallow dish, the beaten eggs in another, and the breadcrumbs in a third.
3. Dip each eggplant slice first into the flour, then into the eggs, and finally coat with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the breaded eggplant slices in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove and drain on paper towels.
5. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce, then top with a layer of mozzarella and Parmesan. Repeat the layers, finishing with a top layer of cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the eggplant is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Eggplant Parmesan is a comforting and rich dish that delivers all the indulgence of a classic Italian-American favorite without the meat. The crispy, golden eggplant slices contrast beautifully with the tangy marinara sauce and gooey cheese, creating a satisfying and balanced meal. Whether served with a side of spaghetti or a simple salad, this dish is perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavors of Italy in a light yet filling vegetarian option.

Chicken Marsala

Chicken Marsala is a rich, savory Italian-American dish featuring tender chicken breasts simmered in a sweet and earthy Marsala wine sauce. The combination of mushrooms, garlic, and the wine creates a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the chicken. This dish is both elegant and easy to prepare, making it ideal for special occasions or a weeknight dinner that feels like a treat.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup flour, for dredging
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (cremini or button)
• 3/4 cup Marsala wine
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, shaking off the excess.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the butter and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the mushrooms have softened and browned.
4. Pour in the Marsala wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the chicken broth and simmer for 5-7 minutes, reducing the sauce by half.
5. Return the chicken breasts to the skillet, spooning the sauce and mushrooms over the chicken. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Chicken Marsala is a dish that’s rich in both flavor and history, offering a perfect balance of savory chicken and sweet, aromatic Marsala wine. The velvety sauce, with its earthy mushrooms, is the star of this dish, complementing the tender chicken beautifully. It’s an ideal meal for a dinner party or a cozy family meal, and it pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes or pasta to soak up the delicious sauce. This Italian-American classic is always a crowd-pleaser, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is an Italian-American comfort food classic that combines ziti pasta with marinara sauce, ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses, all baked together until bubbly and golden. This dish is the epitome of hearty, cheesy goodness, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. It’s a crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to prepare and always a hit at family gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 4 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. Layer half of the cooked pasta over the sauce, then spread half of the ricotta mixture over the pasta. Repeat the layers with the remaining pasta and ricotta mixture.
4. Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the top of the pasta, then sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil if desired, and serve hot.

Baked Ziti is a classic comfort food that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious. The layers of tender pasta, creamy ricotta, and melted cheese create a dish that’s both filling and satisfying. The marinara sauce ties it all together, providing a rich, tangy flavor that’s perfect for the cheesy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a potluck, or just craving a comforting meal, Baked Ziti is the perfect choice. It’s a dish that everyone will love and is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.

Veal Parmesan

Veal Parmesan is an Italian-American classic that features tender veal cutlets breaded and fried until crispy, then topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s a rich, indulgent dish that’s perfect for special occasions or a hearty dinner. The combination of crispy veal, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese makes this dish an irresistible favorite.

Ingredients:

• 4 veal cutlets (about 4 oz each)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1/2 cup olive oil, for frying
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Season the veal cutlets with salt and pepper. Dredge each cutlet in flour, dip it into the beaten eggs, and then coat it with breadcrumbs, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the veal cutlets for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. Remove the veal from the skillet and drain on paper towels.
3. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place the fried veal cutlets on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over the cutlets.
4. Sprinkle the veal with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Veal Parmesan is an indulgent and flavorful dish that brings the best of Italian-American cuisine to the table. The crispy, golden veal cutlets provide a satisfying texture, while the melted cheese and rich marinara sauce offer comforting, familiar flavors. This dish is a great option for a family dinner or a special evening when you want to impress your guests. Whether served with pasta, salad, or crusty bread, Veal Parmesan is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it.

Italian Meatballs

Italian Meatballs are a beloved classic in Italian-American cuisine, perfect for serving with pasta, in subs, or as an appetizer. Made with a blend of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian herbs, these meatballs are tender and flavorful. Simmered in marinara sauce until they’re juicy and packed with flavor, Italian Meatballs are always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1/2 lb ground pork
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, parsley, garlic, egg, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Roll the mixture into meatballs, about 1 inch in diameter.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the meatballs in batches for 5-6 minutes, turning them to brown all sides.
4. Once browned, transfer the meatballs to a plate and discard any excess oil from the skillet. Pour the marinara sauce into the skillet and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the meatballs back into the sauce, making sure they are submerged. Simmer for 30 minutes, occasionally spooning sauce over the meatballs.
6. Serve with spaghetti, on a sub roll, or with crusty bread.

Italian Meatballs are a comforting and hearty dish, rich in flavor and tradition. Whether served with pasta, stuffed into a sandwich, or simply enjoyed on their own, these meatballs are a versatile and delicious option for any meal. The combination of beef and pork makes for tender, juicy meatballs, while the simmering marinara sauce imparts a deep, savory flavor. Perfect for feeding a crowd or for a cozy family dinner, Italian Meatballs are a timeless favorite that will never disappoint.

Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a fantastic vegetarian Italian-American dish that’s crispy, cheesy, and smothered in marinara sauce. It consists of layers of breaded and fried eggplant slices, topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, then baked to perfection. This dish captures all the comfort and flavor of traditional Eggplant Parmesan without the heavy meat, making it a perfect choice for a hearty meatless meal.

Ingredients:

• 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
• Salt for draining
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Sprinkle the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for about 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture. Pat them dry with paper towels.
2. Set up a breading station: Place flour in one shallow dish, beaten eggs in another, and breadcrumbs in a third.
3. Dip each eggplant slice first in flour, then in egg, and finally in breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat well.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
5. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Layer the fried eggplant slices on top, then spoon more marinara sauce over the eggplant.
6. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers until all the eggplant is used.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Eggplant Parmesan is a flavorful and satisfying dish, offering the perfect balance of crispy eggplant, tangy marinara, and gooey melted cheese. The breaded and fried eggplant provides a hearty texture, while the marinara sauce and cheese add richness and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying it as a main course or serving it alongside pasta or salad, Eggplant Parmesan is a delicious and filling vegetarian option that rivals its meaty counterparts. This dish is sure to win over even the most devoted carnivores!

Italian Sausage and Peppers

Italian Sausage and Peppers is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s a staple in Italian-American cooking. The sausages are seared until golden brown and cooked with bell peppers, onions, and garlic, then served with a rich tomato sauce or in a hoagie roll. This dish is a perfect weeknight meal or party food, offering both ease and robust flavors.

Ingredients:

• 4 Italian sausages (sweet or hot)
• 2 red bell peppers, sliced
• 2 green bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
• Hoagie rolls for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and cook for 6-8 minutes per side until browned and cooked through. Remove the sausages from the skillet and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers, onions, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and lightly caramelized.
3. If using diced tomatoes, add them to the skillet along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Return the sausages to the skillet and nestle them into the peppers and onions. Continue cooking for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the sausages to absorb the flavors of the vegetables and sauce.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. For a sandwich version, place the sausage and pepper mixture in hoagie rolls.

Italian Sausage and Peppers is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of savory sausage and sweet, caramelized peppers and onions creates a mouthwatering meal, while the addition of tomato sauce provides extra depth and richness. Whether served on a hoagie roll or alongside a side of pasta or rice, this dish is guaranteed to please. It’s hearty, comforting, and full of delicious flavors—making it a perfect choice for both weeknight dinners and casual gatherings.

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a classic Italian-American comfort food, featuring tender, breaded chicken breasts topped with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This dish is incredibly satisfying, with crispy chicken, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese coming together for a hearty meal. It’s perfect for a family dinner, special occasions, or as a filling option to serve with pasta or in a sandwich.

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs (preferably Italian-style)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil for frying
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Spaghetti for serving (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese. In another dish, beat the eggs.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Dip each breast into the egg, then coat it with the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to ensure an even coating.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the chicken breasts for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Remove from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
5. In a baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Place the fried chicken breasts on top of the sauce.
6. Spoon more marinara sauce over the chicken, then sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the chicken is fully cooked.
8. Serve hot with spaghetti or garlic bread, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Chicken Parmesan is the epitome of comfort food, offering a satisfying combination of crispy, breaded chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese. Whether paired with pasta or enjoyed on its own, this dish never fails to impress. The juicy, flavorful chicken contrasts beautifully with the rich, savory sauce and cheese, creating a balanced meal that’s both indulgent and fulfilling. This is a classic Italian-American recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Stuffed Shells

Stuffed Shells are a classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd. Jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy ricotta cheese mixture, topped with marinara sauce, and baked with mozzarella cheese until golden and bubbly. This dish combines all the best parts of lasagna in a more convenient form, and its cheesy, savory layers will delight anyone at the dinner table.

Ingredients:

• 12 jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta shells according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside to cool slightly.
2. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
3. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the ricotta mixture, being careful not to overfill.
4. Spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells in the dish, then pour the remaining marinara sauce over the shells.
5. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top.
6. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Stuffed Shells are a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The creamy, cheesy ricotta filling is perfectly complemented by the rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella on top. Whether you serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad, this dish is guaranteed to satisfy. With its layers of flavor and hearty filling, Stuffed Shells are an Italian-American classic that’s always a hit.

Baked Ziti

Baked Ziti is another Italian-American staple that offers a hearty, comforting meal. Made with ziti pasta, marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, this dish is like a casserole that brings together all the best flavors of Italian cuisine in one pan. It’s easy to make, filling, and can be prepared ahead of time, making it perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ziti pasta
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, 1 cup of mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. In a large bowl, mix the cooked pasta with the marinara sauce and ricotta mixture. Stir until well combined.
4. Pour the pasta mixture into a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
5. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Baked Ziti is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings all the flavors of Italian-American cooking into one easy-to-make casserole. The combination of pasta, rich marinara sauce, creamy ricotta, and melted mozzarella creates a comforting meal that’s sure to please everyone. It’s a great dish for feeding a crowd, and it’s even better the next day as leftovers. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or a special gathering, Baked Ziti is a crowd-pleasing favorite.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!