The hosts entered the contest under scrutiny following a heavy defeat to France, a result that saw them slip to fifth in the world rankings for the first time in nearly four years.
Ireland struck first when Jamie Osborne crossed for an unconverted try after Italy wing Louis Lynagh was shown a yellow card for a deliberate knock-on.
However, Italy responded impressively. Paolo Garbisi slotted a penalty to close the gap, and after Ireland scrum-half Craig Casey was sin-binned for a high tackle on Michele Lamaro, the visitors capitalised. Kicking to the corner, Italy mauled over with Giacomo Nicotera scoring to hand them a deserved half-time lead.
Garbisi's earlier penalty had already brought them within two points after 20 minutes, and their defence conceded just five during Lynagh's time off the field.
They nearly extended their advantage when Lamaro knocked on following Lorenzo Pani's break from a loose Sam Prendergast kick.
Ireland levelled early in the second half through Jack Conan, though Prendergast's missed conversions kept the score tied at 10-10. Lynagh then had a try ruled out for a forward pass from Tommaso Menoncello.
Rob Baloucoune's debut try, finished after a slick offload from McCloskey, proved decisive. Jack Crowley added a penalty to stretch the lead to 10 points before Italy surged back. Late pressure mounted, but James Lowe's interception ensured Ireland held on.
Andy Farrell has tweaked his Ireland selection for the Six Nations clash with Wales national rugby union team, rewarding three Ulster players with spots in the starting XV following the statement victory over England.
Wales head coach Steve Tandy has adjusted his starting XV for Friday's Six Nations meeting with Ireland at the Aviva Stadium, including recalls and injury-forced reshuffles.
England head coach Steve Borthwick has made no less than nine changes to his matchday 23 that will face Italy in the Six Nations at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome on Saturday.
The original Six Nations trophy has been severely damaged in an accident, resulting in the organisers rolling out a new trophy for the 2027 edition.
