When it comes to quick and delicious meals, pasta is often at the top of our list. But with so many options out there, it can be hard to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this collection of 20 easy pasta recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From classic spaghetti carbonara to creamy garlic parmesan pasta, and from spicy arrabbiata pasta to one-pot lemon butter shrimp pasta, there’s something for everyone in this roundup.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 easy pasta recipes, highlighting their key ingredients, cooking times, and steps. Whether you’re a pasta newbie or a seasoned pro, our recipes are designed to be approachable and adaptable to your tastes and dietary needs. So go ahead, grab a fork, and let’s dig in!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This creamy pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the garlic butter mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked spaghetti to the creamy sauce, tossing to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta
This Italian-inspired pasta dish combines the spicy kick of arrabbiata sauce with the comfort of al dente noodles. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, crushed red pepper flakes, and crushed tomatoes to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pasta in the arrabbiata sauce until well coated. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
This creamy and flavorful pasta dish is a perfect combination of tender shrimp, garlicky butter, and bright lemon notes. With only one pot to clean, this recipe is a quick and easy weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add lemon juice, shrimp, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese (if using). Combine pasta with shrimp mixture.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara Recipe
A rich and creamy Italian pasta dish made with spaghetti, bacon or pancetta, eggs, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon or pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, cook the diced bacon or pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl with the egg mixture and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Add the cooked bacon or pancetta to the bowl and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of fresh tomatoes, the brightness of basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with tomato mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
5. Top pasta with sliced mozzarella cheese and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the creaminess of spinach and Parmesan cheese. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 lb mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Parmesan cheese, grated (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms and garlic in flour until tender.
3. Add chicken broth and heavy cream; stir until smooth.
4. Stir in thyme and spinach leaves; cook until wilted.
5. Combine cooked pasta with mushroom sauce; season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Noodles with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the crunch of crispy breadcrumbs. Perfect as a side dish or a comforting main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz noodles (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the cooked noodles to the skillet, tossing to combine with the garlic butter mixture.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread breadcrumbs on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
5. Combine toasted breadcrumbs with remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and season with salt and pepper.
6. Toss noodles with breadcrumb mixture and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
This vibrant pasta dish celebrates the freshness of spring, featuring a colorful medley of seasonal vegetables sautéed to perfection and tossed with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 pasta 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-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
4. Toss cooked pasta with vegetable mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle on top.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional spring vegetables if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick and Easy Pesto Pasta
A classic Italian dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines the vibrant flavors of pesto with al dente pasta, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil for serving (optional)
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 large skillet, combine pesto and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto mixture, adding Parmesan cheese to taste. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
5. Serve hot, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Baked Ziti with Three Cheeses
Rich and satisfying, this baked ziti dish combines the flavors of three cheeses – mozzarella, parmesan, and ricotta – with tender pasta and savory tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes; bring to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine cooked ziti pasta, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Asparagus
This creamy pasta dish is a perfect representation of the season’s renewal, with the brightness of lemon zest and the tenderness of asparagus. It’s an ideal springtime meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add lemon zest and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Stir in ricotta cheese and cook until smooth, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add lemon juice and asparagus to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until asparagus is tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the ricotta-asparagus mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this spicy twist on classic fettuccine alfredo. This recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a rich, creamy sauce, all wrapped up in a Cajun-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 12 oz fettuccine pasta
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken, bell peppers, and garlic until cooked through. Season with Cajun seasoning.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, and sauce. Stir until well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta alla Vodka with Pancetta
This classic pasta dish combines the creaminess of vodka-infused sauce with the crispy, smoky flavor of pancetta. The result is a rich and savory meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Add vodka to the skillet and stir to deglaze, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Add heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
6. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with sauce. If too thick, add reserved pasta water.
7. Serve hot, topped with crispy pancetta and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic White Wine Clam Linguine
Savor the flavors of the Mediterranean with this delectable seafood linguine dish, featuring succulent clams cooked in a rich garlic and white wine sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 1/4 cup dry white wine
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine 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-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add clams, white wine, chicken broth, and butter. Cover the skillet and cook until clams open, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked linguine with clam mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad with Balsamic Glaze
This classic Italian-inspired pasta salad combines fresh flavors of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, elevated by a rich balsamic glaze. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, and chopped basil.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
4. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened and syrupy (about 5 minutes).
5. Pour the balsamic glaze over the pasta salad and toss to coat.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese
Elevate your comfort food game with this simple yet satisfying recipe that yields a rich and creamy macaroni and cheese dish in just minutes. This pressure-cooker hack is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the macaroni, stirring to coat.
3. Add milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Close lid and set valve to “Sealing”.
5. Cook on “High Pressure” for 6 minutes.
6. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
7. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16 minutes (including natural release)
Roasted Red Pepper Pasta with Feta
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of roasted red peppers paired with creamy feta cheese in this easy and delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast red peppers: place peppers on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. Sauté garlic and roasted red peppers in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-pepper mixture, and feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Broccoli Rabe Pasta
This spicy pasta dish is a flavorful and satisfying meal that combines the bold flavors of Italian sausage, broccoli rabe, and red pepper flakes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or hot)
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cups broccoli rabe, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Red pepper flakes, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped broccoli rabe, garlic, chicken broth, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes or until the greens are tender.
4. Add the red pepper flakes to taste and stir to combine.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and sausage-broccoli mixture in a large serving bowl.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Pasta in Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Sauce
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this hearty pasta dish, featuring tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pappardelle pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, and heavy cream to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and chicken mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
This classic Italian recipe gets a spicy kick from the addition of chili flakes, adding depth and heat to the rich garlic and olive oil sauce. A quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s sure to become a staple.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and black 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 large skillet, combine 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 and cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic-chili sauce, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 easy pasta recipes perfect for busy weeknights. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy arrabbiata, and from classic spaghetti carbonara to baked ziti with three cheeses, these quick and delicious dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Other highlights include one-pot lemon butter shrimp pasta, pesto pasta, cajun chicken alfredo, and more. Whether you’re a fan of seafood, cheese, or vegetables, there’s something for everyone in this collection of easy pasta recipes.
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