Are you looking for a delicious and easy meal to whip up on a busy night? Look no further! Pasta is a classic comfort food that can be made in a flash, and with these 20 quick pasta recipes, you’ll never get bored. From seafood-inspired dishes like Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta and Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes, to creamy and comforting options like Easy Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta, there’s something for everyone. And the best part? These recipes are all quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday afternoon. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for some new ideas, this collection of 20 quick pasta recipes is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta is a quick and easy dinner option that’s sure to please. With succulent shrimp, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 tbsp (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– 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, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet; cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Reduce heat to low. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Combine cooked spaghetti and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired pasta dish is a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying a rich and satisfying plate of creamy tomato basil goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, linguine, or fusilli)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 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 skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
3. Stir in chopped basil leaves and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the tomato mixture. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This recipe combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of parmesan and the pungency of garlic, creating a harmonious balance of flavors in every bite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the lemon-garlic-parmesan sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Spaghetti with Meat Sauce
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This one-pot wonder is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup spaghetti
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the ground beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Bring to a simmer.
4. Add the spaghetti to the pot, stirring to combine with the sauce. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until the pasta is al dente.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
A classic combination of flavors, this simple yet satisfying recipe brings together the brightness of pesto, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the comfort of al dente pasta.
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 and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
3. Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Combine cooked pasta, tomato mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Alfredo Pasta with Chicken
Savor a rich and creamy pasta dish with the simplicity of this recipe. This classic comfort food is ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine pasta
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to please, these stuffed shells are filled with a rich spinach and ricotta mixture and baked to perfection. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup whole-milk ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
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.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set and the cheese is melted and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad
Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil come together in a simple yet flavorful pasta salad that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. bow-tie pasta (farfalle)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. balsamic vinegar
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– 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 bowl, combine the diced tomatoes, sliced mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil leaves.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
4. Pour the dressing over the tomato mixture and toss gently to combine.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well coated with the dressing.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Garlic Mushroom Pasta
This recipe combines the earthy flavor of mushrooms with the richness of garlic and cream to create a satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 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 heat. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, mushroom mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Avocado Pesto Pasta
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this easy and delicious pasta dish that combines the creaminess of avocados with the savory taste of pesto. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 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.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine diced avocados, basil pesto, and 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the blended mixture and stir well.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with the avocado-pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines the richness of sun-dried tomatoes with the earthy goodness of spinach.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Tuna Pasta Bake
Get ready for a quick and satisfying meal with this simple tuna pasta bake recipe! With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and filling dish that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup of grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, marinara sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Pasta with Asparagus
Brighten up a weeknight dinner with this flavorful and refreshing pasta dish, featuring tender asparagus and a zesty lemon pepper sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a family dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., fettuccine, spaghetti)
– 1 lb fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon pepper seasoning
– 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 skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add asparagus and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
3. Add garlic and lemon juice; stir to combine.
4. Stir in lemon pepper seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and asparagus mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta
Looking for a flavorful and spicy pasta dish that can be ready in no time? This Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a spontaneous meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook for 2-3 minutes or until softened.
3. Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the creamy sauce until coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli and Cheddar Pasta
A comforting and flavorful pasta dish that combines the power of broccoli with the richness of cheddar cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Add chicken broth and reserved pasta water; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the broccoli and cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Aglio e Olio Pasta
A classic Italian dish that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor, this simple aglio e olio pasta is a staple for any pasta lover. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, 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. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove the skillet from heat and season with salt to taste.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture.
6. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Pea Pasta
This classic combination of crispy bacon, sweet peas, and al dente pasta is a comforting treat that’s ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday evening.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh peas
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the fresh peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until tender.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing with the pea and garlic mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
6. Stir in the crispy bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Easy Vegan Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic gets a plant-based twist! This creamy macaroni dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons vegan butter (such as Earth Balance)
– 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, soy, or oat work well)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
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, melt vegan butter over medium heat. Add non-dairy milk, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth and creamy.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in vegan cheddar shreds until melted and well combined.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional vegan cheddar shreds if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta with Olives and Feta
Savor the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with this quick and easy pasta dish, featuring juicy olives and tangy feta cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 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, then drain.
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 sliced olives to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they start to soften.
4. Stir in crumbled feta cheese until melted and combined with the olives.
5. Combine cooked pasta, olive-feta mixture, and chopped parsley in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Pepper Pasta
This recipe combines spicy Italian sausage with sweet bell peppers and tangy tomato sauce for a flavorful and filling pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sausage-pepper mixture; toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Looking for quick and delicious pasta recipes? Look no further! This collection of 20 easy pasta recipes features a variety of flavors and options to suit every taste. From classic combinations like garlic butter shrimp and creamy tomato basil, to more unique options like avocado pesto and sun-dried tomato and spinach, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these recipes can be made in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Whether you’re a pasta lover or just looking for some inspiration, this article is sure to satisfy your cravings!
