Are you a pasta lover looking for some delicious meatless options? Look no further! Today, we’re sharing 18 mouth-watering and easy-to-make meatless spaghetti recipes that are perfect for any occasion. From classic Italian flavors to creative twists with international flair, these dishes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore a wide range of options, from creamy sauces to flavorful vegetable-based sauces. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, we’ve got you covered. So grab your apron and let’s dive into these 18 delicious meatless spaghetti recipes!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe
Summary: This rich and creamy pasta dish is perfect for a comforting meal. With the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and spaghetti, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and creamy garlic sauce. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
This recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with garlic, olive oil, and red pepper flakes for a bold and spicy flavor. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 tsp chili flakes (adjust to desired level of heat)
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– 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.
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced garlic and olive oil over medium-low heat. Simmer for 4-5 minutes or until garlic is golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add chili flakes to the skillet and stir for an additional minute.
4. Drain cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and chili mixture. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Tomato and Basil Spaghetti
Savor the flavors of summer with this simple yet flavorful spaghetti dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. Roasting tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness, which pairs beautifully with fresh basil and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 ripe tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place tomato halves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over tomatoes, then sprinkle with minced garlic.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tomatoes are tender and lightly caramelized.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
6. In a large skillet, combine roasted tomatoes, chopped basil, salt, and pepper.
7. Toss cooked spaghetti with tomato-basil mixture, then top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Spinach
This refreshing pasta dish combines the brightness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and earthiness of spinach for a quick and flavorful meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 package fresh spinach leaves
– 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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add lemon juice, reserved pasta water, and cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves until wilted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Mushroom and Thyme Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the brightness of thyme, all wrapped up in a satisfying spaghetti package.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook, stirring to deglaze, for an additional minute.
5. Stir in thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and mushroom sauce, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti Puttanesca (Olives, Capers, Tomatoes)
This classic Italian pasta dish is a masterclass in bold flavors and simplicity. With its combination of olives, capers, tomatoes, garlic, and chili flakes, Spaghetti Puttanesca is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add olives, capers, crushed tomatoes, chili flakes, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce and stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the puttanesca sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Garlic Butter and Herbs
A classic Italian dish gets a flavorful boost from garlic butter and fresh herbs. This simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and 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. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Remove the skillet from heat and stir in parsley and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti. Add the garlic butter mixture to the cooked spaghetti, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Garlic butter preparation time: 5 minutes
Spaghetti with Zucchini and Lemon Ricotta
This summer-inspired spaghetti dish combines the sweetness of zucchini, the brightness of lemon, and the creaminess of ricotta for a delightful and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or 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, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until tender and lightly browned. Season with salt and pepper.
3. In a small bowl, mix ricotta cheese with lemon juice. Stir in some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, zucchini, and ricotta mixture in a large serving dish. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes and creamy pesto sauce with classic spaghetti. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto (see note)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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 sun-dried tomatoes, pesto, and Parmesan cheese. Stir over medium heat until well combined and heated through.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the tomato-pesto mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spaghetti with Roasted Eggplant and Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet delicious spaghetti dish, featuring roasted eggplant and tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 3 large tomatoes, cored and halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. In a separate pan, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add tomato halves to the pan and cook for 10-12 minutes or until they start to soften.
5. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine roasted eggplant, sautéed tomatoes, and cooked spaghetti in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese (if using) on top before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Spaghetti with Creamy Avocado Sauce
Add a creamy twist to your spaghetti dish with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of avocado with the comfort of pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 ripe avocados, peeled and pitted
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, heavy cream, lemon juice, and garlic. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the sauce and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– 15 minutes (includes cooking time for spaghetti)
Spaghetti with Caramelized Onions and Balsamic Glaze
Elevate your spaghetti game with this sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions, rich balsamic glaze, and tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– 1 cup balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, combine balsamic vinegar and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until thickened into a glaze.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti, reserved pasta water, and caramelized onions. Toss with the balsamic glaze until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spaghetti with Walnut and Parsley Pesto
A creative twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of walnuts with the freshness of parsley to create a unique and delicious pesto sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 cup fresh parsley leaves
– 1/2 cup walnut halves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a food processor or blender, combine parsley leaves, walnut halves, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Process until smooth, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed.
3. Add salt and black pepper to taste, then pulse to combine.
4. Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water before draining spaghetti.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti with pesto sauce, adding reserved pasta water if a creamier consistency is desired.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, featuring roasted red peppers blended into a rich and creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Place red peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and roast for 30-40 minutes or until charred.
2. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, remove seeds, and chop into small pieces.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
4. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted red peppers, garlic, and reserved pasta water. Blend until smooth.
5. Add heavy cream and blend until combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Spaghetti with Garlicky Kale and White Beans
This hearty pasta dish combines the comfort of spaghetti with the nutritious boost of kale and creamy white beans, all infused with a savory garlicky flavor. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded, leaves coarsely chopped
– 1 medium garlic clove, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chopped kale to the skillet, stirring occasionally, until wilted (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in cannellini beans, reserved pasta water, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with garlicky kale mixture. Toss to combine, adding Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Spaghetti with Lemon and Herb Breadcrumbs
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and flavorful dish that combines the classic comfort of spaghetti with the zestiness of lemon and the crunch of herby breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 1/4 cup)
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in lemon juice, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Cook until crumbs are lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, breadcrumb mixture, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Butternut Squash and Sage
This autumnal spaghetti dish combines the comforting warmth of butternut squash with the earthy flavor of sage, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash: Cut the squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and roast for 45 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
4. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and sage in a little olive oil until fragrant.
5. Add roasted squash, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Add heavy cream or half-and-half, stirring until sauce coats the spaghetti evenly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sage leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato and Basil Sauce
This classic Italian recipe showcases the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and the brightness of basil, perfectly balanced to highlight the simplicity of summer flavors.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cups fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes), chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (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 separate saucepan, combine chopped tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld.
3. Add reserved pasta water to the tomato sauce, if needed, to achieve desired consistency.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and tomato sauce in a large serving bowl. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game without the meat! This article brings you 18 delicious meatless spaghetti recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor. From creamy garlic parmesan to zucchini and lemon ricotta, there’s something for everyone. Explore a range of international flavors, from Italian-inspired aglio e olio to Mediterranean-style sun-dried tomato pesto. Whether you’re a vegetarian or just looking to mix things up, these mouthwatering recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and indulge in the rich flavors of Italy without the meat!