For generations of Italian-American families, Thanksgiving has never been just turkey and stuffing…it’s a feast where Italy meets America. Long before the bird comes out of the oven, the house is filled with the scent of simmering tomato sauce, bubbling baked pasta, and the unmistakable aroma of Locatelli Pecorino Romano, a cheese that’s been handcrafted in Italy for over 150 years.
Since 1860, Locatelli has been synonymous with quality and tradition; a name passed down like Nonna’s recipes. And now, with their newest offering, Locatelli Parmigiano Reggiano, you can bring even more authentic Italian flavor to your Thanksgiving table.
An Italian Start to a Classic American Feast
In Italian-American homes, Thanksgiving dinner often begins not with turkey, but with a pasta course. Baked lasagna or ziti bubbling with sauce, mozzarella, and layers of Locatelli cheese signals that the holiday season has truly begun.
Try our Seafood Lasgana or Spaghetti Carbonara. They both embody the spirit of Italian comfort food that’s a crowd pleaser for Thanksgiving. The sharp, salty bite of Pecorino Romano balances the richness of tomato sauce and ricotta for the perfect family-style dish.
Seafood Lasagna
Or modernize your Italian-American Thanksgiving tradition with Creamy Baked Gnocchi with Locatelli Pecorino Romano, it’s a bubbling, cozy side that rivals mashed potatoes. For a lighter twist, and pop of incredible flavor you can sprinkle Locatelli over your green veggie sides like broccoli, brussels sprouts, or for a more Italian-American twist…broccoli rabe!
A New Classic: Locatelli Parmigiano Reggiano
This year, introduce your guests to Locatelli’s newest star! Their Parmigiano Reggiano is aged to perfection with a nutty, savory depth. It’s the perfect complement to Thanksgiving classics, whether grated over roasted vegetables, folded into stuffing, or shaved over fall salads.
Try our Cacio e Pepe Potatoes au Gratin for a creamy, flavorful update to a holiday staple. Or serve Roasted Cauliflower with Pecorino, Pine Nuts, and Parsley as a show-stopping side that combines Italian sophistication with homey comfort.
Wine Pairings: Bringing Italy to the Table
No Italian-inspired Thanksgiving is complete without vino. Start the celebration with a crisp Prosecco or Franciacorta to pair with antipasti and cheeses.
For your pasta course or baked dishes layered with Locatelli Pecorino Romano, reach for a Chianti Classico, Barbera d’Alba, or Montepulciano d’Abruzzo; these medium-bodied reds balance tomato sauce and aged cheese beautifully.
When the turkey arrives, pour an elegant Pinot Grigio or Verdicchio to complement the meal without overpowering it. And to end the evening, sip a golden Vin Santo or lightly sparkling Moscato d’Asti; they’re perfect alongside cannoli, biscotti, or of course pumpkin pie! No Italian American Thanksgiving is complete without a full spread of both traditional Italian desserts AND classic apple and pumpkin pie.
A Toast to Family and Flavor
Thanksgiving, Italian-American style, is more than just a meal! It’s a celebration of family, tradition, and abundance. Whether you’re serving lasagna before the turkey or just adding a sprinkle of Locatelli to your stuffing, these recipes honor generations of flavor and craftsmanship that began in Italy and live on in every American kitchen that calls it home.
So grate generously, pour the Chianti, and raise a glass to family, flavor, and a holiday table where old-world Italy meets all-American warmth.
#Live.Love.Locatelli
