15 Nonna’s list of dishes to keep in the family

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Nonna’s recipes are more than just food—they’re a way of keeping the family together. From Sunday dinners to festive celebrations, these dishes have seen it all. Each one carries a story, a secret ingredient, or a special technique that Nonna perfected over the years. It’s like having a treasure chest filled with flavors, each one more precious than the last, making every meal a cherished family affair.

Bolognese Sauce on pasta.
Authentic Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sausage Parmigiana

Sausage Parmigiana on a white plate with a red napkin and a glass of wine.
Sausage Parmigiana. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Everyone knows a dish that remains a mainstay at family gatherings, and Sausage Parmigiana is just that in Nonna’s collection. It’s a meal that brings everyone to the table, eager and ready. The aromas fill the room, hinting at the rich flavors to come. What is truly magical about this dish is its ability to bring an old-world charm to the modern dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Parmigiana

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

A bowl of olive garden creamy shrimp alfredo pasta served in a black bowl with a spoon.
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

It’s always fun to bring a restaurant favorite into the comfort of home, and Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo does just that. Nonna took this popular dish and made it something special for family dinners. Each serving brings a sense of sophistication without being overly complex. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening when you’re looking to bring a bit of the dining-out experience to your own table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Chicken Piccata

Two chicken piccata on a white plate with parsley and lemon wedges.
Chicken Piccata. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who appreciate a dish with vibrant yet balanced flavors, Chicken Piccata is a standout. Nonna has been making this for as long as anyone can remember. It’s this balance of simplicity and depth that has kept it a family favorite through generations. Serving this dish is a surefire way to bring a touch of elegance to any meal, whether it’s a festive holiday or a casual weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Piccata

Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

A bowl of oven-roasted tomato soup with two spoons.
Oven Roasted Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

As comfort foods go, Oven Roasted Tomato Soup is a classic, and Nonna’s version is no different. This soup is all about warmth and comfort, perfect for a chilly evening. Each bowl is like a warm hug, making it a favorite among all ages in the family. It has the power to turn any meal into an occasion, yet it’s simple enough to be enjoyed any day.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Tomato Soup

Baked Pesto Salmon

Salmon with spinach sauce on a white plate.
Baked Pesto Salmon. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

When looking for a dish that’s both nutritious and full of flavor, Baked Pesto Salmon fits the bill. This is one of Nonna’s recipes that perfectly combines health with indulgence. It’s become a centerpiece at many family gatherings, especially during the holidays. What makes it particularly special is how it maintains its flavor integrity, even with its straightforward preparation.
Get the Recipe: Baked Pesto Salmon

Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Garlic Shrimp Scampi on a bed of rice in a black oval dish.
Garlic Shrimp Scampi. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s always room for a dish that’s both light and rich in flavors, and Garlic Shrimp Scampi is a testament to that. Nonna’s take on this classic is loved for its ability to complement any side while standing strong on its own. It’s a versatile dish that suits a variety of occasions, whether it’s a simple family meal or a more formal gathering.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Shrimp Scampi

Italian Chicken

Creamy Italian Chicken on a plate.
Italian Chicken. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For a hearty meal that goes back generations, Italian Chicken is the recipe you need. It’s a robust dish that’s been passed down through the family, each generation making it their own. This dish stands out for its comforting aura and its ability to pair well with almost any side. It’s one of Nonna’s specialties that has a knack for making any dinner feel like a festive occasion.
Get the Recipe: Italian Chicken

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

A white bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, garnished with cheese and green herbs, is placed on a wooden surface. A hand is holding a fork with a piece of pasta.
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Bringing a slice of Italian restaurant flair home is the idea behind Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. Nonna holds this recipe close, as it’s always a hit at family celebrations. It serves as a reminder of why we love pasta dishes: they’re hearty, comforting, and always enliven the dinner table. This recipe, in particular, is perfect for when you want to add a little extra something to your dining lineup.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Grilled Bruschetta Chicken on a white plate.
Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

For a fresh take on a family favorite, try Grilled Bruschetta Chicken. This dish brings together classic flavors with a grilled twist that makes it perfect for any occasion. It can be a great main course and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or a crowd, this one is always a win.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Bruschetta Chicken

Classic Caprese Salad

A top-down shot of a classic caprese salad in a black dish.
Classic Caprese Salad. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Imagine sitting down to a meal that’s been a family favorite for generations; Classic Caprese Salad is just that sort of dish. It’s got a history of bringing people together, perfect for any family gathering or a simple, quiet dinner. Its simplicity is its strength, serving as a reminder of home-cooked meals filled with care.
Get the Recipe: Classic Caprese Salad

Polenta with Mascarpone

Polenta with mascarpone in a white bowl.
Polenta with Mascarpone. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When it comes to comfort food with a gourmet touch, Polenta with Mascarpone has a spot on Nonna’s list. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out, ideal for those evenings when you crave something with a bit of nostalgia. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, it’s like a hug in a bowl. Family dinners often call for such a dish, where smiles are shared as freely as seconds.
Get the Recipe: Polenta with Mascarpone

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Low Carb Zuppa Toscana Soup in a white round bowl with small handles.
Zuppa Toscana Soup. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

On a chilly evening, nothing quite hits the spot like a warm bowl of Zuppa Toscana Soup. This soup is a testament to hearty meals that have the power to bring everyone to the table. It’s the type of recipe that gets passed down through the generations, each one adding their own little twist. Yet, at its core, the soup remains a beloved classic, steeped in the warmth of family heritage.
Get the Recipe: Zuppa Toscana Soup

Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

2 Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwiches on a black plate.
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich. Photo credit: Grill What You Love.

Sometimes, all you want is a meal that’s both simple and full of flavor, which is where Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich comes in. It’s a lunchtime favorite that has a way of making any day feel a bit more special. Gather around the kitchen table with this sandwich, and you’ve got the making of a perfect midday break.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you’re in the mood for something hearty and wholesome, Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are a great choice. These shells are filled with rich flavors that make them perfect for a family dinner or a special occasion. They are filling enough to be a main course on their own. Pair them with a simple salad or some garlic bread to complete your meal.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Authentic Bolognese Sauce

Bolognese Sauce on pasta.
Authentic Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

When you want a sauce that delivers flavor, Authentic Bolognese Sauce is the way to go. This sauce is perfect for pasta, lasagna, or any dish where you want robust and rich flavors. Every bite is a nod to tradition, and it’s bound to become a mainstay at your dining table. Make a big batch and enjoy it with different meals throughout the week.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Bolognese Sauce

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