15+ Quick Pasta Recipes: Delicious Meals Ready in No Time

Pasta is a versatile dish that you can whip up in no time. Quick pasta recipes are both delicious and easy. Perfect for busy weeknights, these meals will satisfy your hunger without taking hours to prepare.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a tasty pasta dish for any occasion. Whether you want something light and fresh or hearty and filling, quick pasta recipes fit the bill perfectly.

1) Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a delicious and quick pasta dish from Italy. It uses just four basic ingredients, making it simple to prepare. You can whip it up in about 20 minutes!

To start, cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until it’s al dente. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan. Add thinly sliced garlic and red pepper flakes to the oil. Cook until the garlic is golden and fragrant, but not burnt.

Once the spaghetti is ready, drain it and toss it with the garlic oil. You can garnish it with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if you’d like. This dish is satisfying and packed with flavor!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound (450 g) uncooked spaghetti
• ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (or to taste)
• Salt, to taste

Cooking Instructions:

1. Boil salted water in a large pot.
2. Add spaghetti and cook until al dente.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add sliced garlic and red pepper flakes; cook until garlic is golden.
5. Drain spaghetti and mix with the garlic oil.
6. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and cheese if desired.

2) Penne Arrabbiata

Penne Arrabbiata is a simple and spicy pasta dish. It is made with penne pasta, tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes. The name “Arrabbiata” means “angry” in Italian, referring to the heat from the chili peppers.

To make this dish, cook the penne in salted water until al dente. In a pan, heat olive oil and add minced garlic. Next, add crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Simmer the sauce until thickened, then mix in the cooked pasta.

You can top it with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if you like. This dish is quick to make and packed with flavor!

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) penne pasta
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Fresh parsley (optional)
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook penne according to package instructions in salted water.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes.
5. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Drain the pasta and combine it with the sauce.
7. Serve with parsley and Parmesan if desired.

3) Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a creamy pasta dish that’s quick and simple to make. You can enjoy this comforting meal on a busy weeknight.

For this recipe, you’ll use fettuccine noodles and a rich sauce made from butter, cream, and Parmesan cheese. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for anyone who loves cheesy pasta.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) fettuccine
• 1/2 cup (115 g) butter
• 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the heavy cream and simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Toss the cooked fettuccine in the sauce. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

4) Pesto Pasta

Pesto pasta is a quick and tasty dish you can whip up in no time. The bright green sauce gives it a fresh flavor. You can enjoy it warm or cold, making it great for any meal.

To start, cook your favorite pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta cooks, prepare the pesto. You can use store-bought pesto or make your own with basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil.

Once your pasta is ready, drain it and mix in the pesto. If it’s too thick, add a little pasta water to loosen it up. Top it with grated cheese or toasted nuts for extra crunch.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of pasta (your choice)
• 1 cup of pesto
• Grated cheese (Parmesan or similar)
• Optional: toasted pine nuts or walnuts

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. If making homemade pesto, blend basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil.
3. Drain the pasta and mix with the pesto.
4. Add a little pasta water if needed.
5. Serve with cheese or nuts on top.

5) Carbonara

Carbonara is a tasty and quick pasta dish. It uses simple ingredients but packs a lot of flavor. You can make it in about 20 minutes.

Start by cooking spaghetti or your favorite pasta in boiling water. While the pasta cooks, fry pancetta or bacon in a pan until crispy.

Next, whisk together eggs and Parmesan cheese in a bowl. When the pasta is ready, combine it with the bacon and remove from heat. Pour the egg mixture over the pasta, stirring quickly. The heat will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce.

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with extra cheese on top if you like.

Ingredients

• 200g spaghetti (7 oz)
• 100g pancetta or bacon (3.5 oz)
• 2 large eggs
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese (1.7 oz)
• Salt and pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water and cook spaghetti according to package directions.
2. In a pan, fry pancetta or bacon until crispy.
3. Whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese in a bowl.
4. Combine pasta with bacon, then remove from heat.
5. Stir in egg mixture quickly.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot with extra cheese if desired.

6) Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon garlic shrimp pasta is a quick and tasty meal. It combines shrimp, pasta, and fresh flavors in under 30 minutes. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.

To make it, start by cooking your favorite pasta. While it cooks, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add shrimp until they’re pink. Toss it all together with lemon juice and parsley for a bright finish.

This dish is simple yet impressive, and it’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 3-5 minutes.
5. Drain pasta and mix with shrimp.
6. Add lemon juice, salt, pepper, and parsley. Stir well.

7) Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Creamy mushroom pasta is a quick and delicious meal. It combines fresh mushrooms, garlic, and creamy sauce for a tasty dish. You can make it in just about 20 minutes.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat some olive oil in a pan. Add sliced mushrooms and minced garlic. Sauté them until soft and golden.

Next, pour in some heavy cream and let it simmer. Add grated Parmesan cheese for flavor. Once the pasta is ready, drain it and mix it with the sauce. Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley if you like.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) pasta
• 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in heavy cream and simmer.
5. Mix in Parmesan cheese.
6. Drain pasta and combine with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper, and serve hot.

8) Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a fresh and vibrant dish that celebrates spring vegetables. You can use colorful veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots. It’s a light meal that is quick to prepare.

To make Pasta Primavera, cook your pasta and toss it with sautéed vegetables. Adding a splash of lemon juice brightens up the flavors. You can also sprinkle on some Parmesan cheese for extra taste.

This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight and can be served warm or cold. It’s a great way to enjoy seasonal produce.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (any type)
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.
2. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Drain pasta and add to the pan.
6. Mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
7. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

9) Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a simple and tasty Italian pasta dish. It uses just a few ingredients to create a creamy sauce. This dish is quick to prepare and perfect for a busy night.

You need pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper. The key is to cook the pasta and mix it with the cheese and pepper for a smooth sauce.

Start by boiling water and cooking your pasta.

While the pasta cooks, grate the cheese. Make sure you have plenty of freshly cracked black pepper ready to use.

When the pasta is done, reserve some pasta water and drain the rest.

Mix the hot pasta with cheese and pepper, adding water to create the sauce.

Enjoy your delicious Cacio e Pepe!

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) spaghetti or tonnarelli
• 1 cup (100 g) grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
3. Grate the Pecorino Romano cheese.
4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
5. Mix hot pasta with cheese and black pepper.
6. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time, stirring to make a sauce.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

10) Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna pasta salad is a quick and tasty meal. You can whip it up in no time. It’s perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

To start, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Use rotini or penne for a fun twist. Once it’s ready, drain it and let it cool.

Next, mix in canned tuna, chopped veggies like bell peppers and celery, and a creamy dressing. You can use mayonnaise or a tangy vinaigrette. Add some salt and pepper for flavor.

Feel free to get creative! You can add olives, cheese, or even some herbs. Serve it chilled for the best taste.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
• 1 can tuna, drained
• 1 cup chopped veggies (bell peppers, celery)
• ½ cup mayonnaise or vinaigrette
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain pasta and let it cool.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tuna, and veggies.
4. Add dressing, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Chill in the fridge before serving.

11) One-Pot Mac and Cheese

One-Pot Mac and Cheese is an easy and comforting dish. You can make it all in one pot, which means less cleanup for you!

Start by boiling water in a large pot. Add macaroni and cook according to the package directions. Once cooked, drain any excess water.

Now, return the pot to the heat. Stir in milk, cheese, and butter. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and everything is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Enjoy your warm and cheesy meal!

Ingredients

• 2 cups elbow macaroni
• 2 cups water
• 1 cup milk
• 2 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil water in a large pot.
2. Add macaroni and cook until tender.
3. Drain excess water.
4. Return pot to heat.
5. Stir in milk, cheese, and butter.
6. Mix until cheese melts.
7. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve warm.

12) Simple Tomato Basil Pasta

This Simple Tomato Basil Pasta is quick and easy to make. It’s perfect for a busy day when you want something delicious. Fresh ingredients make this dish bright and flavorful.

Start by cooking your pasta until it’s al dente. You can use any pasta you like. When it’s ready, drain it and set it aside.

In a pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a minute. Then, add chopped tomatoes and simmer until they soften. Stir in fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor.

Finally, mix the pasta with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add chopped tomatoes and simmer until soft.
6. Stir in fresh basil leaves.
7. Mix the pasta with the sauce.
8. Season with salt and pepper.
9. Serve warm.

13) Garlic Butter Pasta

Garlic butter pasta is a quick and tasty dish. It’s full of flavor and can be made in just a few minutes. You’ll enjoy a simple combination of garlic, butter, and pasta.

Start by boiling your favorite pasta according to the package directions. While it cooks, melt butter in a pan and add minced garlic. Sauté the garlic until it’s golden brown.

Once the pasta is ready, drain it and add it to the pan with the garlic butter. Toss everything together to coat the pasta well. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese and fresh herbs on top.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces (225 grams) of pasta
• 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of butter
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Boil the pasta in salted water.
2. In a pan, melt butter over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté until golden.
4. Drain the pasta and add it to the pan.
5. Toss to coat and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve with cheese and herbs if desired.

14) Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan

This Orzo with Spinach and Parmesan is a quick and easy dish perfect for dinner or a side. It combines creamy orzo with fresh spinach and the rich flavor of Parmesan cheese.

You can whip this up in about 15 to 30 minutes. It’s simple, delicious, and a great way to enjoy vegetables.

Ingredients

• 1 cup orzo pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the orzo and cook according to package directions, usually about 8-10 minutes.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Drain the orzo and combine it with the spinach.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, mixing well before serving. Enjoy!

15) Pasta Puttanesca

Pasta Puttanesca is a quick and tasty dish. It features bold flavors from ingredients like olives, capers, and garlic. You can have it ready in about 20 minutes.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package directions. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for a minute until fragrant.

Then mix in canned tomatoes, olives, and capers. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes. Once your pasta is done, drain it and add it to the sauce. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper.

Serve hot with a sprinkle of parsley for extra flavor.

Ingredients

• Spaghetti or other pasta (12 ounces)
• Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Canned tomatoes (1 can, diced)
• Green or black olives (1/2 cup, chopped)
• Capers (2 tablespoons)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook pasta according to package directions.

2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

4. Then, stir in canned tomatoes, olives, and capers.

5. Simmer the sauce for 5 minutes.

6. Drain pasta and mix it into the sauce.

7. Season with salt and pepper.

8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.