When it comes to delicious and easy-to-make pasta dishes, Italian cuisine is always a winner. From classic spaghetti Bolognese to creative twists on traditional recipes, there’s something for everyone in the world of Italian pasta. In this article, we’ll be sharing 18 mouth-watering Italian pasta recipes that are perfect for beginners. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner solution or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy your pasta cravings.
From creamy sauces to light and refreshing summer dishes, our collection of Italian pasta recipes is the ultimate resource for anyone who loves this beloved type of cuisine. So grab your fork and get ready to dive into the world of pasta!
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This beloved pasta dish from southern Italy is a staple of simple yet flavorful cooking. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional), for some heat
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine sliced garlic and olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the reserved pasta cooking water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the garlicky oil sauce.
6. Season with salt, red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and a creamy sauce. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted 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 and 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 garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the saucepan, tossing to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
This recipe brings together the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, garlic, and pasta in a simple and satisfying one-pot dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Butter Garlic Pasta
This creamy and citrusy pasta dish is a perfect combination of flavors. With its simplicity and quick cooking time, it’s an ideal option for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with the garlic and butter mixture.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera
Pasta Primavera is a classic spring-inspired dish that celebrates the flavors and colors of the season. This recipe combines fresh vegetables, herbs, and pasta for a light and refreshing meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. dried thyme
– 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 vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add white wine (if using) and stir to deglaze the pan. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with vegetable mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and thyme.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Mushroom Alfredo Pasta
A creamy and flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in no time! This recipe combines sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and a rich alfredo sauce with cooked fettuccine noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine noodles
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup unsalted 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 fettuccine noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine cooked noodles with mushroom sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
In just a few minutes, you can create a delicious and flavorful pasta dish using fresh cherry tomatoes and store-bought pesto.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup store-bought pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine the pesto and cherry tomatoes. Heat over medium-low heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes start to release their juices and the pesto is heated through.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the tomato-pesto mixture.
4. Sprinkle the Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cherry tomatoes if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic Caprese salad, this pasta version combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil with al dente pasta for a light and satisfying side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella, olive oil, vinegar, and chopped basil.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
6. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic and flavorful combination of succulent shrimp, garlic butter, and pasta, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 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 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add remaining 2 tbsp butter.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute. Stir in reserved pasta water and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic butter sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve shrimp on top of pasta, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
This classic Italian-American dish is a crowd-pleaser, and with this easy recipe, you’ll be enjoying flavorful stuffed shells in no time. A creamy spinach and ricotta filling, combined with tender pasta and rich tomato sauce, makes for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jar marinara sauce (28 oz)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
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 and ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a 9×13-inch baking dish, seam-side down.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the shells and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 5-10 minutes to golden brown.
Tomato and Ricotta Pasta Bake
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This simple pasta bake combines the flavors of juicy tomatoes, creamy ricotta cheese, and al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
– 2 cups (400ml) cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup (250g) ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cherry tomatoes, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Mix well.
4. Add cooked pasta to the tomato mixture and toss until coated.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with Broccoli
Brighten up your pasta dish with a burst of citrusy flavor from this quick and easy recipe. This Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta with Broccoli is perfect for a weeknight dinner that’s both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 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, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp.
4. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Combine cooked pasta, lemon-broccoli mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Simple Spaghetti Carbonara
A classic Italian dish that combines spaghetti, bacon, eggs, and Parmesan cheese, Simple Spaghetti Carbonara is a quick and easy meal perfect for any occasion. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, 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 the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Meanwhile, cook the diced bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss to combine.
5. Add the cooked bacon and chopped parsley (if using) to the pasta and toss again.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the nutrients of spinach, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta, spinach leaves, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Three-Cheese Baked Ziti
This comforting casserole combines the classic flavors of ziti pasta, rich tomato sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses for a satisfying weeknight dinner. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a crowd-pleasing dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and ricotta cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked ziti pasta to the cheese mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Transfer pasta mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Pasta
Rich, creamy garlic butter sauce coats tender pasta, mushrooms, and the perfect blend of flavors in this comforting dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms; cook, stirring occasionally, until tender and golden brown (5-7 minutes).
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in heavy cream and remaining butter. Bring sauce to a simmer and let reduce slightly (2-3 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom sauce, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta
Transform a weeknight dinner into a rich and satisfying meal with this One-Pot Creamy Tuscan Pasta recipe. With just one pot to clean, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and comforting dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 (14.5 oz.) can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta, olive oil, onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a large pot over medium-high heat until the onion is translucent.
2. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and let cook for 15-20 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
4. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quick and Easy Margherita Pasta
A classic Italian recipe that’s simplicity itself! This margherita pasta is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the marinara sauce and stir to combine.
3. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some reserved pasta water.
4. Top the pasta with mozzarella cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the taste of Italy with these 18 easy and delicious pasta recipes perfect for beginners! From classic spaghetti dishes to creamy sauces and flavorful vegetables, there’s something for everyone. Try Spaghetti Aglio e Olio for a spicy kick, Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta for a rich and creamy treat, or One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta for a quick and satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a simple weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
