15 Easy Pasta Dish Recipes for Quick and Delicious Meals

Pasta is a versatile dish that many people love. It can also be a quick solution for busy weeknights.

You can whip up a comforting meal that satisfies your cravings without spending hours in the kitchen.

With just a few simple steps, you can create delicious pasta dishes that taste like they took all day to prepare. Whether you prefer creamy sauces, fresh vegetables, or hearty proteins, there is something for everyone. Get ready to enjoy some satisfying meals that you can make in no time!

1) Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that’s simple and delicious. It features just a few ingredients, making it quick to prepare. You will love the strong garlic flavor paired with the richness of olive oil.

Start by boiling water and cooking your spaghetti until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan and add sliced garlic.

Once the garlic is golden, add the drained spaghetti to the pan. Mix well and add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat. Don’t forget to reserve a bit of pasta water to help combine everything.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
• Red pepper flakes (to taste)
• Salt (for boiling water)

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook spaghetti for about 10-12 minutes until al dente.
3. Meanwhile, heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
4. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until golden.
5. Drain spaghetti, reserving some pasta water.
6. Add spaghetti to the skillet with garlic, mixing well.
7. Incorporate reserved pasta water if needed.
8. Add red pepper flakes and serve warm.

2) Pasta Carbonara

Pasta carbonara is a classic Italian dish that’s both simple and delicious. It combines spaghetti, crispy bacon, and a creamy sauce made from eggs and cheese. You can have this hearty meal on your table in about 30 minutes!

To start, cook your spaghetti until it’s al dente. Meanwhile, fry diced bacon or pancetta until it’s crispy. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and freshly grated cheese, like Parmesan or Pecorino Romano.

Once the pasta is ready, combine it with the bacon and then mix in the egg and cheese mixture. The heat from the pasta will create a creamy sauce.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti (400g)
• Bacon or pancetta (150g)
• Eggs (3 large)
• Parmesan cheese (100g, grated)
• Black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente.
2. In a frying pan, cook the diced bacon until crispy.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and cheddar cheese.
4. Drain pasta, reserving some pasta water.
5. Combine pasta with bacon, then mix in egg and cheese mixture.
6. If needed, add reserved pasta water to reach desired creaminess.

3) Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a classic Italian pasta dish that is simple yet delicious. It requires just four main ingredients, making it a great option for a quick meal.

You will need spaghetti, pecorino romano cheese, black pepper, and salt. This dish is creamy and flavorful, perfect for pasta lovers.

To start, boil water in a large pot. Add a good amount of salt before cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. Remember to reserve some pasta water before draining.

Once the pasta is drained, mix it with grated pecorino romano and black pepper. Add a little reserved pasta water to make it creamy. Serve it hot for the best taste!

Ingredients

• Spaghetti
• Pecorino romano cheese
• Black pepper
• Salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Cook spaghetti until al dente.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
4. In a bowl, mix spaghetti with grated cheese and pepper.
5. Add reserved pasta water to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Serve immediately.

4) Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a fresh and colorful dish. It combines pasta and a variety of vibrant vegetables. This easy recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners.

To start, you can use any pasta you like. Cook it according to the package instructions. Remember to reserve some pasta water for later.

While the pasta cooks, sauté your favorite vegetables in olive oil. Common choices include bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. Add some minced garlic for flavor.

Once the vegetables are tender, mix in the cooked pasta. Toss everything together with lemon juice and a bit of the reserved pasta water. This keeps the dish light and refreshing.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, carrots)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Sauté minced garlic and vegetables until tender.
5. Combine pasta with vegetables and add lemon juice.
6. Mix in reserved pasta water as needed.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

5) One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a simple and delicious dish. You will find it is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Start by sautéing garlic in olive oil until it is fragrant. Then, add chicken broth and milk, followed by your choice of pasta. Cook until the pasta is tender and absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Finish by stirring in freshly grated Parmesan cheese for that creamy texture. This dish is comforting and easy to clean up since everything is made in one pot.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream.
4. Stir in pasta and bring to a boil.
5. Cook until pasta is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and mix in Parmesan cheese.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

6) Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon ricotta pasta is a quick and tasty dish that you can whip up in no time. It’s creamy and bright, making it perfect for any night of the week.

To start, cook your pasta in salted water until it is al dente. Save some pasta water for later. While the pasta cooks, mix together ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Once the pasta is done, drain it and return it to the pot. Add the ricotta mixture and a bit of the pasta water to help it all blend nicely. Stir gently until heated through.

This dish is best served warm and can be garnished with extra lemon zest or fresh herbs if you like.

Ingredients:

• Pasta
• Ricotta cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Lemon zest
• Lemon juice
• Salt
• Pepper

Cooking Instructions:

1. Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente.
2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Save some pasta water before draining.
4. Combine pasta and ricotta mixture in the pot.
5. Add reserved pasta water and stir gently to combine.

7) Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple and delicious dish that you can whip up in no time. Using fresh tomatoes and basil brings a burst of flavor to your meal. The creamy sauce makes it comforting and perfect for any night.

To make this dish, you start by cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, sauté garlic in a pan, then add chopped tomatoes and heavy cream. Stir in fresh basil for that lovely aroma.

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with a side salad or garlic bread.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. In a pan, sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add chopped tomatoes and cook for a few minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix in fresh basil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine the pasta with the sauce.
7. Top with Parmesan cheese if desired.

8) Pasta al Limone

Pasta al Limone is a simple and delicious dish that showcases the bright flavor of lemon. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner.

To make this dish, you will need long pasta like spaghetti or linguine. The fresh lemon juice and zest add a zesty twist that brightens the pasta beautifully.

You can enhance the dish with butter, cream, and cheese for a rich flavor. Adding freshly cracked black pepper can also elevate the taste.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) long pasta (spaghetti or linguine)
• 1 lemon (juice and zest)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add lemon juice and zest, then stir in heavy cream.
4. Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

9) Peanut Sesame Noodles

Peanut sesame noodles are a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in no time. They’re perfect for lunch or dinner and are full of flavor. The nutty sauce makes these noodles deliciously satisfying.

You can make them with just a few ingredients. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or proteins for extra nutrition. This recipe is versatile and works well with what you have on hand.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) noodles (spaghetti or rice noodles)
• 1/4 cup (60 ml) peanut butter
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) soy sauce
• 2 tbsp (30 ml) sesame oil
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp (15 ml) rice vinegar
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and rice vinegar.
3. Toss the cooked noodles with the peanut sauce until well coated.
4. Serve with green onions and sesame seeds on top. Enjoy!

10) Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese Pasta Salad is a fresh and easy dish you can whip up in no time. It combines pasta, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil for a colorful meal. The best part? You can enjoy it cold or at room temperature.

To start, cook your pasta in boiling salted water until it’s al dente, then drain and rinse it with cold water.

In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Toss in the cooked pasta, halved cherry tomatoes, and mozzarella balls.

Finish by adding fresh basil. This salad is perfect for picnics or as a side dish at barbecues.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup mozzarella balls
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to the package directions.
2. Drain and rinse with cold water.
3. In a bowl, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella to the dressing and toss.
5. Gently mix in fresh basil before serving.

11) Spinach and Feta Pasta

Spinach and feta pasta is a quick and tasty dish that you can whip up in no time. You will love how the flavors come together with just a few ingredients.

Start by cooking your pasta according to package instructions.

While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. You’ll sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant.

Next, add fresh spinach and stir until it wilts. Then, mix in crumbled feta cheese.

Once the pasta is done, combine everything in the skillet and toss to coat.

This dish is not only easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrition.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (any type)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta as per package directions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Sauté minced garlic for about 1 minute.
4. Add spinach and cook until wilted.
5. Stir in crumbled feta cheese.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the spinach mixture.
7. Toss well and season with salt and pepper.

12) Pasta with Pesto

Pasta with pesto is a quick and flavorful dish that you can enjoy any night of the week. The combination of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious sauce that coats your favorite pasta.

You can use any pasta shape you like. Popular choices are spaghetti, penne, or linguine. Cooking the pasta is simple; just boil it until it’s al dente.

To make the dish more exciting, consider adding vegetables or protein. Peas, cherry tomatoes, or grilled chicken work well.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 1/4 cup pine nuts
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions in boiling salted water until al dente.
2. In a blender, combine basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. While blending, slowly add olive oil until smooth.
4. Drain pasta and reserve a little pasta water.
5. Mix pasta with pesto, adding reserved water as needed for consistency. Enjoy!

13) Vodka Penne Pasta

Vodka penne pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that’s simple to make. It combines tender penne pasta with a rich tomato cream sauce, making it a favorite for many.

You’ll start by cooking the pasta in boiling salted water until it’s al dente. Meanwhile, prepare the sauce by heating butter and sautéing shallots and garlic until they’re soft.

Next, add tomato paste and a splash of vodka for flavor. Let it cook briefly before stirring in heavy cream. Mix everything together and let it simmer until thickened.

Finally, toss the pasta in the sauce, and finish with parmesan cheese. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a special gathering.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 shallot, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper
• Grated parmesan cheese

Cooking Instructions:

1. Boil water in a pot and add salt.
2. Cook penne pasta until al dente, about 11 minutes.
3. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Sauté shallots and garlic for 4-5 minutes.
5. Stir in tomato paste and vodka; cook for 2 minutes.
6. Add heavy cream and simmer until thickened.
7. Combine pasta with the sauce and mix well.
8. Serve with grated parmesan on top.

14) Macaroni and Cheese

Macaroni and cheese is a classic dish that is simple to make and loved by many. You can whip it up quickly for a cozy dinner or as a side for a holiday meal.

For a basic recipe, you need elbow macaroni, cheese, milk, butter, and seasoning. You can also add extra ingredients like vegetables or protein to customize it.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces elbow macaroni
• 2 cups shredded cheese
• 2 cups milk
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
4. Stir in the milk and cheese until melted.
5. Mix in the cooked macaroni and season.
6. Pour into a baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes. Enjoy!

15) Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish that is simple to make. It combines fettuccine noodles with a rich sauce of butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. This dish is perfect for a comforting meal.

You can make it in about 30 minutes. It’s great for busy nights or when you want something delicious without much fuss. You can also add chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: cooked chicken or vegetables

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions. Then, drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly.
4. Mix in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add the cooked fettuccine and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!