Meta Description: Create a delicious Italian dinner with these recipes for roasted meat, pasta with ground meat, focaccia bread, and braised pork. Perfect for a family feast or gathering!
URL: www.simplecrave.com/italian-dinner-recipes-with-meat-and-pasta
Italian Dinner Recipes with Meat and Pasta
Introduction: This collection of Italian dinner recipes with meat and pasta brings the essence of Italy to your table. Featuring rich, savory flavors, these dishes are ideal for a family gathering or a special weekend meal. With dishes including roasted meat in sauce, pasta with ground meat, cheesy focaccia, and braised pork, this meal has a little something for everyone. Follow these easy steps to create a complete Italian feast that celebrates the flavors of traditional Italian cuisine.
1. Roasted Meat in Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 boneless beef roast (about 1 lb)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh rosemary for garnish
Preparation Method:
- Season the Meat: Generously season the beef roast with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Roast: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the roast on all sides until browned.
- Add Sauce Ingredients: Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, and garlic to the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Roast the Meat: Transfer the roast to a baking dish, pour the sauce over it, and cover. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 1-1.5 hours or until tender.
- Garnish and Serve: Slice the roast, spooning the sauce over each piece. Garnish with fresh rosemary.
2. Cheesy Focaccia Bread
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made focaccia bread
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Olive oil for brushing
Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Focaccia: Place the focaccia on a baking sheet and brush the top with olive oil.
- Add Cheese Toppings: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the bread.
- Bake the Bread: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Serve Warm: Slice and serve this cheesy focaccia alongside your Italian dinner.
3. Pasta with Ground Meat
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pasta (such as casarecce or penne)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef or pork
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- Fresh basil for garnish
Preparation Method:
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
- Combine and Serve: Toss the cooked pasta with the meat sauce. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
4. Braised Pork in Rich Sauce
Ingredients:
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup white wine
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Preparation Method:
- Season the Pork: Season the pork chunks with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Pork: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork and sear until browned on all sides.
- Add Liquid and Braise: Pour in the white wine, chicken broth, and balsamic vinegar. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1 hour, until the pork is tender.
- Serve with Sauce: Arrange the pork on a serving platter and spoon the sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme.
5. Puff Pastry with Tomato Glaze
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry
- 1/4 cup tomato sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Puff Pastry: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the puff pastry on a lined baking sheet.
- Add Tomato Glaze: Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce over the puff pastry, leaving a border around the edges.
- Brush with Egg Wash: Brush the edges with the beaten egg for a golden finish.
- Bake: Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden. Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Tips for Creating an Italian Dinner Feast:
- Pair with Wine: For a truly Italian experience, pair these dishes with a light Italian white wine like Pinot Grigio or a red like Chianti.
- Serve Family Style: Arrange all dishes on the table for a communal, family-style dinner, allowing everyone to sample and enjoy a bit of everything.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh rosemary, basil, and thyme enhance the flavors of these Italian recipes, adding an authentic touch to each dish.
- Add a Simple Salad: A mixed green salad with balsamic dressing will complement this meal, adding freshness to the rich, savory flavors.
Health Benefits of This Italian Dinner Recipe Collection:
This Italian dinner recipe collection offers a variety of nutrients. The meats provide protein and essential vitamins, while pasta offers energy-boosting carbohydrates. Using olive oil, tomato sauce, and fresh herbs brings in antioxidants and healthy fats. This balanced meal is filling, flavorful, and makes for a wholesome family dinner.
Conclusion: These Italian dinner recipes with meat and pasta bring the warmth of Italian cuisine to your home. From savory roasted meat and cheesy focaccia to rich braised pork and hearty pasta, this meal is perfect for creating memorable dining experiences with loved ones. Enjoy the flavors of Italy and share the joy of good food!