After a long day of work, school, or other responsibilities, cooking dinner can feel like an overwhelming task. But pasta, with its versatility and quick cooking time, can be the answer to a hearty and satisfying meal without the fuss. These easy pasta recipes are perfect for busy weeknights, allowing you to create flavorful dishes in a short amount of time, using ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here, we present a variety of pasta recipes that are both simple to prepare and full of delicious flavors.
1. Garlic Butter Spaghetti with Parmesan
Garlic butter spaghetti with Parmesan is a simple yet flavorful dish that can be made in under 20 minutes. Start by cooking spaghetti according to package instructions. While the pasta is boiling, melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then toss in the cooked spaghetti. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little heat. Finish with chopped parsley for a touch of freshness. This dish is comforting, quick, and a crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
2. One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
This one-pot creamy tomato basil pasta is both easy to make and requires minimal cleanup. In a large pot, combine pasta, diced tomatoes, minced garlic, vegetable broth, and a splash of heavy cream. Bring everything to a boil and let it simmer until the pasta is cooked through and the sauce has thickened. Stir in fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese before serving. The result is a creamy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for a busy weeknight when you want something delicious without spending too much time in the kitchen.
3. Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Lemon ricotta pasta is a light and refreshing dish that comes together in just 15 minutes. Cook your favorite pasta, such as fettuccine or spaghetti, according to the package instructions. In a separate bowl, mix ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a bit of the pasta water and toss the pasta with the ricotta mixture, adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy consistency. Top with fresh arugula and grated Parmesan cheese for a bright, zesty dinner that’s both easy and satisfying.
4. Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a classic dish that highlights fresh seasonal vegetables, making it a perfect way to incorporate more greens into your diet. Cook penne or fusilli according to package instructions. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in olive oil, then add vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, cherry tomatoes, and broccoli. Cook until the vegetables are tender, then toss in the cooked pasta. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, grated Parmesan cheese, and chopped basil for a burst of freshness. This dish is colorful, healthy, and ready in just 30 minutes.
5. Creamy Pesto Pasta with Chicken
For a protein-packed pasta dish, try creamy pesto pasta with chicken. Start by cooking pasta, such as rigatoni or farfalle, according to the package instructions. While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a skillet and cook diced chicken until browned and cooked through. Add pesto sauce, a splash of heavy cream, and the cooked pasta to the skillet, stirring until everything is well coated. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and serve. The creamy pesto sauce adds richness to the dish, making it a satisfying option for a busy weeknight.
6. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a traditional Italian dish that’s both simple and flavorful. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add thinly sliced garlic. Cook the garlic until it’s golden and fragrant, then add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Toss in the cooked spaghetti and season with salt and pepper. Finish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. This dish is incredibly easy to make, with just a few ingredients, yet it’s packed with flavor.
7. Chicken Alfredo Penne
Chicken Alfredo penne is a creamy, comforting dish that’s easy to make and always a hit with the family. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions. In a skillet, cook diced chicken until browned. Add minced garlic, heavy cream, and grated Parmesan cheese to create a rich Alfredo sauce. Toss the cooked penne with the sauce and chicken, and let everything simmer for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in and can be made in under 30 minutes.
8. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
Roasted red pepper pasta is a flavorful and vibrant dish that’s easy to make with just a few ingredients. Cook your favorite pasta, such as linguine or penne, according to package instructions. In a blender, combine jarred roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, salt, and a splash of cream. Blend until smooth. In a skillet, heat the roasted red pepper sauce and toss in the cooked pasta. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. The roasted red peppers add a smoky sweetness that makes this dish unique and delicious.
9. Baked Ziti with Spinach
Baked ziti with spinach is a comforting pasta bake that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers throughout the week. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions and drain. In a large mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, thawed frozen spinach (squeezed dry), marinara sauce, and the cooked pasta. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This baked ziti is cheesy, hearty, and full of flavor, making it a family favorite.
10. Mushroom and Spinach Orzo
Mushroom and spinach orzo is a quick and easy dish that’s both hearty and nutritious. Cook orzo pasta according to package instructions. In a skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in olive oil until the mushrooms are tender. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in the cooked orzo, a splash of vegetable broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper, and serve. This dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that doesn’t require much effort.
