So, you want to host Friendsgiving this year but with a little Italian flair? Molto bene! Forget the same ol’ turkey and mashed potatoes—it’s time to bring a touch of Italy to your table. We’re talking creamy pastas, crusty breads, and desserts that’ll make your guests go, “Wait… is this heaven?” Don’t worry—you won’t need your Nonna’s culinary degree to pull this off.
This Italian Friendsgiving Menu is all about flavor, fun, and minimal stress. Because honestly, who wants to spend the whole day in the kitchen when there’s wine to drink and friends to laugh with?
Why This Recipe is Awesome
Let’s get real—this menu is the definition of crowd-pleasing. You’ll look like a total pro, but it’s secretly easy enough that even your “boil-water-burner” friend could pull it off.
Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Zero boring flavors. Every bite tastes like Italy threw a party in your mouth.
- Make-ahead friendly. You can prep most of it before your friends even show up.
- Comfort food vibes. Creamy, cheesy, carby—basically everything that makes life worth living.
- And hey, if you accidentally burn the garlic bread, just call it “extra toasty” and no one will question it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Alright, roll up your sleeves (or don’t—it’s Friendsgiving, not MasterChef). Here’s what’s on the menu:
Appetizer: Caprese Skewers
- Cherry tomatoes (because mini food = instant fancy)
- Fresh mozzarella balls
- Basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Toothpicks (you fancy party host, you)
Main: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
- Spaghetti or fettuccine (go with what you’ve got)
- Butter (a glorious half cup of it)
- Garlic cloves (like, a lot—6 minimum)
- Heavy cream
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt & black pepper
- Optional: chopped parsley for “Instagram aesthetic”
Side: Italian Roasted Chicken
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Olive oil
- Italian seasoning
- Lemon juice
- Garlic powder
- A sprinkle of paprika (because color matters)
Salad: Tuscan-Style Salad
- Romaine lettuce
- Sun-dried tomatoes
- Black olives
- Red onion
- Olive oil + red wine vinegar
Dessert: Tiramisu Trifles
- Ladyfingers
- Espresso (the real stuff, not instant, please)
- Mascarpone cheese
- Heavy cream
- Cocoa powder for dusting
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Start with the Skewers
Thread a cherry tomato, a basil leaf, and a mozzarella ball on each toothpick. Repeat until you run out or get bored. Drizzle with balsamic glaze. Boom—appetizer done.
2. Cook the Pasta
Boil water, salt it like the ocean, and cook your noodles till al dente. (Don’t let them get mushy unless you want your Italian ancestors to haunt you.)
3. Make the Sauce
In a pan, melt butter and sauté garlic until it smells like pure happiness. Pour in cream and simmer for a couple of minutes. Add Parmesan, stir until it thickens. Salt, pepper, done.
4. Toss It Together
Combine pasta with sauce, sprinkle parsley, and toss like you’re in a cooking show. Taste test (for quality control, obviously).
5. Roast That Chicken
Preheat your oven to 400°F (205°C). Mix olive oil, lemon juice, seasoning, and garlic powder. Coat the chicken and roast for 25–30 minutes until golden and juicy.
6. Toss the Salad
Throw lettuce, sun-dried tomatoes, onions, and olives in a bowl. Dress it with olive oil and vinegar. Give it a good toss and a dramatic chef’s nod.
7. Assemble the Tiramisu Trifles
Layer espresso-soaked ladyfingers with mascarpone cream. Dust with cocoa. Refrigerate. Tell everyone it’s “Nonna’s secret recipe.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the salt in pasta water: Your noodles deserve better.
- Overcooking pasta: You’re making pasta, not baby food.
- Burning the garlic: Nothing says “I messed up” like bitter garlic flavor.
- Using low-fat cream: This isn’t the time for calorie counting. Go big or go home.
- Forgetting dessert: Seriously, how dare you?
Alternatives & Substitutions
- No mascarpone? Use cream cheese + whipped cream. It’s not authentic, but it’ll work.
- Gluten-free friends? Swap regular pasta for GF noodles and nobody will notice.
- Vegetarian crowd? Ditch the chicken and add a roasted veggie platter instead.
- No espresso machine? Strong brewed coffee will totally do.
- Too broke for sun-dried tomatoes? Cherry tomatoes roasted in olive oil = same vibe.
(IMO, creativity in the kitchen is the real secret ingredient.)
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
Can I make this menu ahead of time?
Yes! The pasta sauce, chicken marinade, and tiramisu can all be prepped earlier. Just reheat or assemble when it’s party time.
Can I use jarred sauce instead of homemade?
You could, but then you’d miss out on the glory of saying, “Oh, I made that from scratch.” Your call.
What wine pairs best with this meal?
White wine for the pasta, red for the chicken, and maybe a glass of prosecco just because—it’s Friendsgiving, not an interview.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. Double the food, double the fun (and leftovers).
What if I don’t have basil for the skewers?
Sub in spinach or arugula. Or just skip it and call them “Minimalist Caprese Skewers.”
Can I use store-bought tiramisu?
You can—but where’s the fun (or bragging rights) in that?
Do I have to serve everything?
Nope. Pick your favorites and make it your own Italian-style feast.
Related Recipes:
- Friendsgiving Taco Bar Night | Fun DIY Dinner Party Idea
- Cookie Dough Energy Balls Recipe
- Puff Pastry Cinnamon Twists Recipe
Final Thoughts
There you have it—your Italian Friendsgiving Menu that’s fun, delicious, and way cooler than the traditional turkey dinner. You’ve got everything from appetizers to dessert covered, and the best part? You didn’t even break a sweat (well, maybe a little, but it was worth it).
Now pour yourself another glass of wine, turn on some Italian jazz, and bask in the compliments. You just pulled off a Friendsgiving to remember.
Go on, chef—flex those Italian vibes. You’ve earned it! 🇮🇹🍷
