Are you tired of ordering takeout every time you have a busy night? Look no further! Pasta is a quick, easy, and delicious option that can be ready in no time. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you can whip up a tasty meal that will satisfy your hunger and impress your family.
From classic comfort food to innovative twists, pasta recipes come in all shapes and sizes. In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and easy pasta recipes that are perfect for busy nights. Whether you’re looking for something creamy and indulgent or light and refreshing, there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A classic comfort food recipe that combines the richness of parmesan cheese with the pungency of garlic, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce and served over al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup (250ml) heavy cream
– 1/2 cup (120g) grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (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 heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
Simplify your spaghetti game with this quick and delicious one-pot recipe! This classic comfort food is now easier to make than ever, with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 28 oz can crushed tomatoes (marinara sauce)
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in marinara sauce, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked spaghetti back into the pot, tossing to coat with the sauce.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of butter with the brightness of lemon, all wrapped up in a flavorful shrimp pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, whisk together lemon juice and Dijon mustard. Cook for 1 minute over medium heat.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the lemon butter sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Add cooked shrimp back into the pasta and toss to combine.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Caprese Pasta Salad
Add a touch of Italy to your next potluck or picnic with this simple and delicious pasta salad. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. salt
– 1 tsp. pepper
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 chopped basil, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Once cooled, add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss everything together.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (plus cooking time for pasta)
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This classic Italian dish is a staple for a reason – the combination of creamy pesto, al dente pasta, and sweet cherry tomatoes is a match made in heaven. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh 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 large skillet, combine pesto, cherry tomatoes, and reserved pasta water. Simmer over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the pesto mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and mushrooms in this comforting pasta dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add mushrooms and cook for 3-4 minutes until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom sauce, and salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells Recipe
A classic Italian-American dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the flavors of spinach, ricotta, and Parmesan cheese with cooked pasta shells, creating a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
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, and egg. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Simple Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines fresh flavors and simplicity. This recipe yields a deliciously light and flavorful pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 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.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Once pasta is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with tomato-basil mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake
A comforting, flavorful casserole that combines cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and a rich cheddar cheese sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tbsp. butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tsp. garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Steam broccoli until tender; set aside.
4. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
6. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted; season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
7. Combine cooked pasta, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
8. Top with additional grated cheddar cheese (optional).
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Alfredo Fettuccine with Grilled Chicken
Elevate your pasta game with this classic Italian-inspired dish, featuring tender grilled chicken and a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz fettuccine
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest.
2. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let sauce thicken.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
6. Combine cooked fettuccine and Alfredo sauce. Toss with grilled chicken, breaking into bite-sized pieces if needed.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Elevate your pasta dish with this vibrant and flavorful recipe that highlights the best of spring’s seasonal vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add vegetable broth and white wine (if using); stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, vegetable mixture, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta
A classic Italian pasta dish gets a spicy kick with this Arrabbiata sauce recipe. This bold and flavorful pasta is perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 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 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-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the Arrabbiata sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumbs
This recipe takes the classic macaroni and cheese to the next level by adding crunchy breadcrumbs for added texture. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp butter
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably Panko)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and butter. Whisk until smooth and heated through.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Transfer the macaroni mixture to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Garlic Pasta with Asparagus
Brighten up your dinner plate with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, featuring the perfect balance of tangy lemon, pungent garlic, and tender asparagus. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp.)
– 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-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and asparagus mixture. Toss to combine, then top with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes.
Pasta Carbonara with Pancetta
Classic Italian comfort food gets a boost from crispy pancetta and a creamy egg sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of pancetta or bacon, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 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. 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. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Add cooked pancetta to the spaghetti mixture and toss everything together until well combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegetable Lasagna Roll-Ups
Satisfy your pasta cravings with this creative twist on traditional lasagna. These roll-ups are packed with flavor and texture, making them a perfect main dish or side for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8-10 lasagna noodles
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as spinach, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions)
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine ricotta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Add mixed vegetables and mix until combined.
5. Spread a thin layer of the vegetable mixture onto each noodle, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Roll up noodles tightly and place seam-side down in a baking dish.
7. Top with mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
8. Sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Quick Tuna Pasta Casserole
Looking for a comforting and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time? This tuna pasta casserole is the perfect solution, loaded with creamy sauce, tender pasta, and protein-rich tuna.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine tuna, peas and carrots, milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat over medium heat until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful dish featuring roasted red peppers. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red peppers by placing them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Remove peppers from oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop peppers into small pieces.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a blender or food processor, combine roasted peppers, garlic, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Blend until smooth.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the roasted pepper sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Easy Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Transform ordinary zucchini into a delicious and healthy pasta alternative with this simple recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and spiralize the zucchinis into noodle-like strands.
3. Place the zucchini noodles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Drizzle the pesto sauce evenly over the zucchini noodles, sprinkling with salt to taste.
5. If using Parmesan cheese, sprinkle it on top of the pesto sauce.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the zucchini noodles are tender and slightly caramelized.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve hot and enjoy!
Cheesy Baked Rigatoni with Sausage
This comforting casserole combines tender rigatoni pasta, juicy sausage, and a rich blend of cheeses for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, olive oil, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, and breadcrumbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Get ready for a culinary boost with these 20 quick and easy pasta recipes perfect for busy nights! From creamy garlic parmesan to lemon butter shrimp, there’s something for everyone. Satisfy your cravings with one-pot spaghetti, spinach and ricotta stuffed shells, or broccoli cheddar pasta bake. For a lighter option, try simple tomato basil pasta or veggie-packed pasta primavera. And don’t forget the indulgent treats like alfredo fettuccine with grilled chicken or cheesy baked rigatoni with sausage. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes have got you covered!