Based on my own experience in learning a new language I will try to follow the same pattern in order to achieve our goal.
Let's say you want to start from the very beginning, I would initiate from learning how to pronounce the phonetic of the Italian alphabet which is slightly different from the English one but it will make a huge impact on how you'll be able to read out and pronounce a sentence later on, including some exceptions we have when we combine different letters together. We will then start learning essentials words as: articles, pronouns, adjectives, main verbs, and everyday words followed by the acknowledgment on how to compose a sentence, the structure of it and the different grammatical tenses. Alongside these grammar lessons I will introduce you to our old sayings and new age slangs and introduce you to some important facts and events of different topics that defined Italian culture like arts, fashion, music, cinema, cuisine, history.
Something that really helps a lot remember the words it's using famous quotes or watching videos of Italian celebrities saying those words, listening to songs the are well known worldwide, I will always suggest to watch cartoons, movies or tv shows in Italian that you know by heart; By doing this you will listen to the Italian version, to the tone of voice used by the characters and to the gesticulation but will remember it in your native language.
We will then of course recreate hypothetical daily situations and conversations like ordering at the bar or asking information at the station by doing games and exercises.
What I've learned through the years it's to give yourself time to learn by resting your mind, if you rush it too much sometimes it creates just a big confusion in your head. In the end this is the pure essence of Italy, no rush but enjoyment of life, the sweet life.