5 Simple Italian Dishes You Can Cook for a Crowd

When it comes to feeding a group, Italian food is a go-to for a reason—hearty, flavorful, and made for sharing. Whether you're planning a casual dinner party or a festive family gathering, these five Italian dishes bring warmth and comfort to the table without demanding hours in the kitchen. Plus, they’re designed to please a crowd—full of familiar flavors and easily scalable for larger servings.

1. Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella

A classic baked pasta dish that never fails. Toss cooked ziti with marinara, creamy ricotta, and shredded mozzarella, then bake until bubbly and golden. It's the kind of dish you can prep ahead of time and pop in the oven just before guests arrive. Add fresh basil on top before serving for a fragrant finish.

2. Chicken Cacciatore

This rustic, one-pot wonder features chicken simmered in a tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and herbs. It's tender, flavorful, and perfect with crusty bread or creamy polenta. The beauty of Chicken Cacciatore is its flexibility—make it ahead, keep it warm in a Dutch oven, and serve it family-style.

3. Caprese Skewers

Need a no-cook option? Caprese skewers are a fresh and elegant starter that’s easy to assemble in bulk. Thread cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella balls, and basil leaves onto skewers, then drizzle with balsamic glaze. Simple, colorful, and full of classic Italian flavor.

4. Sausage and Peppers

Sweet Italian sausage cooked with bell peppers and onions is a crowd-pleasing favorite. Serve it with rolls for sandwiches, or over pasta or rice. It’s a straightforward dish with bold flavors and minimal cleanup—perfect for feeding a hungry group.

5. Tiramisu in a Dish

Dessert for a crowd doesn’t get better than tiramisu. Layer ladyfingers soaked in espresso with mascarpone cream and dust with cocoa powder. Made in a large baking dish, it’s easy to portion and even better when made a day ahead to let the flavors meld.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just feeding a big, hungry family, these Italian favorites make entertaining easy and delicious. And if you’d rather skip the prep and let someone else do the cooking, we’d love to welcome you to Cucina Verona in Fort Bragg. Our warm authentic Italian dishes paired with live music make moments to cherish—just like at home, but with a little extra charm. Click here to make a reservation.