Are you tired of cooking the same old pasta dishes every week? Look no further! With these 20 easy and delicious pasta recipes, you’ll never have to worry about a lackluster meal again. From classic comfort foods like creamy garlic parmesan and mac and cheese, to lighter options like lemon butter garlic shrimp and caprese salad, there’s something for everyone on this list.
In the following pages, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering recipes, including tips and tricks for making them in no time. Whether you’re a busy professional or a family looking for quick and easy meals, these pasta dishes are sure to become new favorites.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this comforting Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta recipe, featuring tender pasta smothered in a creamy sauce infused with garlic and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream, stirring constantly, and bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sauce. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
A quick and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines the sweetness of cherry tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all in one pot!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil, garlic, and cherry tomatoes. Cook over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, or until the tomatoes start to release their juices.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and basil to the pot. Stir until the cheese is melted and the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Transform your pasta dish with a burst of citrusy flavor! This recipe combines succulent shrimp, tangy lemon butter sauce, and aromatic garlic for a mouthwatering experience.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
• 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp.)
• 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side or until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
4. In the same pan, combine lemon juice, white wine (if using), and reserved pasta water. Stir to combine and simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, shrimp, and lemon butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Quick and Easy Alfredo Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this classic and creamy recipe that’s ready in under 15 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian dish is a staple of Roman cuisine, where simplicity and freshness come together to create a bold and flavorful pasta dish.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
• Salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil mixture.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of basil and garlic with sweet cherry tomatoes, all on a bed of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thinned slightly.
3. Add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Mac and Cheese
A classic comfort food that’s quick to make and always a hit! This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni and cheese sauce in a baking dish.
9. Top with additional grated cheese (optional) and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic butter and sautéed mushrooms with al dente pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad
A vibrant and flavorful salad that combines the best of Italy’s flavors – fresh mozzarella, sweet tomatoes, and fragrant basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes and sliced mozzarella.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with chopped basil.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the earthy sweetness of spinach, all wrapped up in tender pasta shells.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with chopped parsley (if using) and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Easy Pasta Primavera
This spring-inspired pasta dish is a classic Italian recipe that combines the flavors of asparagus, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes with tender pasta and a light sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 lb. fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add asparagus, bell pepper, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with vegetables and sauce.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lazy Carbonara Pasta
Get ready to enjoy a creamy and indulgent pasta dish with minimal effort! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 large eggs
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta is cooking, cook the diced bacon in a separate pan over medium heat until crispy.
3. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
4. When the pasta is done, drain it and add it to the bowl with the egg mixture. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Add the cooked bacon and remaining Parmesan cheese to the pasta and toss again.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Penne Pasta
A classic Italian dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this Tomato Basil Penne Pasta is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked penne pasta and tomato-basil mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Sausage and Peppers Pasta
This hearty, one-pot pasta dish is a perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. Smoked sausage and colorful bell peppers add smoky flavor to the classic pasta combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 ounces pasta of your choice (such as penne or rotini)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers; cook until tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and add to the pot with the sausage mixture.
6. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the pasta is well coated.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Easy Garlic Butter Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe. In just a few minutes, you’ll be enjoying a rich and creamy garlic butter sauce over perfectly cooked noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp (30g) unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream or whole milk. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked pasta and garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pasta with Olive Oil and Garlic
This classic Italian recipe is a staple for a reason – it’s simple, flavorful, and pairs well with a variety of ingredients. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can create a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top and toss again.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad that’s perfect for a busy day or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, penne, or macaroni)
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and olives.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Pour dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Add cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and toss until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Easy Baked Ziti
A classic Italian-American dish gets a simple twist with this easy-to-make baked ziti recipe. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce and cooked ziti pasta. Mix well.
4. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pasta, followed by shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this creamy and citrusy pasta dish. This Lemon Ricotta Pasta combines the richness of ricotta cheese with the brightness of lemon zest, all wrapped up in a simple yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese, lemon zest, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and ricotta mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
A classic Italian dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious. With just a few ingredients, you’ll have a flavorful and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the saucepan if it becomes too thick.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with marinara sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for delicious and easy pasta recipes to spice up your busy weeknights? Look no further! This collection of 20 mouth-watering dishes will become your new go-to guide. From creamy garlic parmesan to one-pot tomato basil, lemon butter garlic shrimp to quick alfredo, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing salad or a rich and satisfying comfort food, these recipes are sure to please. With a range of flavors and ingredients, you’ll never get bored with your pasta options again.
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