Get ready for an unforgettable Italian-style Friendsgiving! I’ve gathered a mix of authentic Italian recipes and classic American dishes with Italian flavors for the perfect Friendsgiving menu. From drinks and appetizers to bread, main courses, pasta, sides, and desserts, there’s something for everyone.
Wondering what to serve at Friendsgiving? Skip the restaurant and try these easy, delicious Italian and Italian-American recipes. Need Friendsgiving appetizers, snacks, side dishes, or desserts? I’ve got you covered. Create a memorable holiday menu with these Italian-inspired dishes and enjoy a festive Friendsgiving dinner with friends!
12. Sundried Tomato & Basil Spread
When thinking about Friendsgiving appetizers, the Sundried Tomato & Basil Spread is a must-try! Made with just five simple ingredients – cream cheese, sundried tomatoes, fresh basil, shredded Italian blend cheese, and garlic – this spread is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare.
Perfect for your next Friendsgiving or any Italian-themed gathering, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs perfectly with a variety of breads and crackers.
11. Chicken Parmesan Sausage Bites
These Easy Chicken Parmesan Sausage Bites are a game-changer for any Friendsgiving menu! With just four ingredients – chicken sausage, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil – these bites are ready in less than 20 minutes, making them a perfect quick and easy Friendsgiving food idea.
They’re a delightful twist on traditional chicken parm, delivering all the flavors in a convenient bite-sized form.
10. Prosciutto Wrapped Prunes
Prosciutto Wrapped Prunes are an unexpected delight! These savory bites combine the sweetness of prunes with the salty richness of prosciutto, stuffed with cheese and nuts.
They are a bit milder than the classic bacon-wrapped dates but just as satisfying. Ideal for a gluten-free and dairy-free option, simply omit the cheese for a Paleo-friendly treat. These appetizers are a hit at any Italian themed Friendsgiving and are sure to impress your guests with their unique flavor and simplicity.
9. Ricotta Cheese Balls
If you’re looking for Friendsgiving food ideas that are easy to make and a hit with everyone, these Ricotta Cheese Balls are perfect! Crunchy on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth soft on the inside, these cheese balls come together in less than 30 minutes.
Serve them with classic marinara sauce for dipping, and watch them disappear quickly from the table. These tasty bites bring a delightful Italian touch to your Friendsgiving feast
8. Italian Parmesan Rolls
One of my favorite Friendsgiving food ideas is Italian Parmesan Rolls. These rolls are soft, fluffy, and packed with delicious Parmesan flavor, making them the perfect addition to any meal.
They’re incredibly easy to make from scratch and ready in just one hour, which is ideal when you’re prepping for a big gathering. They always turn out perfectly and are a huge hit at our Italian themed Friendsgiving. Trust me, you can’t go wrong with these crowd-pleasers!
7. Layered Italian Baked Mac and Cheese
This Italian-style Friendsgiving dish combines the comforting essence of classic mac and cheese with the rich flavors of Italian cuisine. The creamy cheese sauce perfectly coats the pasta, while a layer of hearty Bolognese sauce adds an unexpected twist.
It’s like getting the best of both worlds in every bite! This dish is not only a favorite at our gatherings, but it also brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia to the table.
6. Shredded Brussel Sprouts with Pancetta and Pecorino
Whether you’re a longtime fan of brussel sprouts or new to the vegetable, this dish will win you over. Shredded brussel sprouts cook quickly and pair perfectly with the savory pancetta and sharp pecorino.
This simple yet flavorful dish is a fantastic addition to any Italian themed Friendsgiving. The combination of textures and tastes makes it a crowd-pleaser, and it’s incredibly easy to prepare with just three main ingredients.
5. Quick and Easy Mushroom Risotto
This mushroom risotto is a standout at any Italian friendsgiving. The creamy, chewy texture of the risotto, combined with the rich, earthy flavor of mushrooms, makes it feel like a restaurant-quality dish right at home.
Despite its reputation for being difficult, I find it quite simple to make. The key is to stir often and keep an eye on the pot to prevent the rice from sticking.
4. Cheese Manicotti
Cheese Manicotti is a true labor of love that pays off with every bite. This dish, perfect for an Italian themed friendsgiving, features light, crepe-like pasta filled with a rich, creamy cheese mixture, all baked in a flavorful tomato sauce.
It’s one of those recipes that might take a bit more time, but the end result is so worth it. I love serving it when I have friends over for a special dinner because it’s always a hit.
3. Pumpkin Cannoli
These Pumpkin Cannoli are a fun twist on the traditional Italian dessert, making them perfect for an Italian themed Friendsgiving.
Using store-bought cannoli shells, you can easily create this delightful dessert filled with pumpkin spice cream and mini chocolate chips. They’re so simple to make that you’ll have more time to enjoy the festivities with your friends.
2. Cannoli Pie
Cannoli Pie is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dessert, making it a perfect choice for Italian friendsgiving food. This easy-to-make dessert features a crunchy homemade crust and a creamy, no-bake cannoli filling loaded with mini chocolate chips.
It comes together quickly with minimal prep, but you do need to refrigerate it for a while before serving. I love how this dessert combines the classic flavors of a cannoli in a pie form.
1. Classic Panna Cotta
Panna Cotta is one of the most beloved Italian friendsgiving food options because it’s light, creamy, and incredibly versatile. Made with simple ingredients like cream and gelatin, this dessert can be flavored in endless ways.
My favorite is the classic version, served with a sweet strawberry sauce. The name literally means “cooked cream,” which perfectly describes the smooth texture that pairs wonderfully with fresh berries or any fruit of your choice.
