Pasta lovers rejoice! There’s nothing quite like a delicious, satisfying plate of noodles to hit the spot. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or adventurous and bold, we’ve got you covered with these 20 mouth-watering pasta recipes.
From creamy sauces to bold flavors, each of these dishes is sure to become a new favorite. Take a culinary journey through Italy with our Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta, or spice things up with our Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta. Whatever your taste buds are craving, we’ve got the perfect recipe to satisfy them.
In this article, we’ll be exploring everything from classic pasta dishes like Pesto Chicken Alfredo to more unique creations like One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta. Whether you’re a pasta newbie or a seasoned pro, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
A rich and satisfying pasta dish that combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 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 skillet, tossing to combine with the creamy sauce. 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 spicy pasta dish is a classic Italian recipe that combines the bold flavors of garlic, chili peppers, and tomatoes with al dente pasta. Perfect for those who like a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2-3 dried red pepper flakes (depending on desired level of spiciness)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and 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 water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir to combine, then bring the sauce to a simmer.
4. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer while you prepare the pasta. Toss the cooked spaghetti with the tomato sauce, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Butter Shrimp Scampi
Lemon Butter Shrimp Scampi Recipe
This classic Italian dish is a crowd-pleaser, featuring succulent shrimp smothered in a rich and zesty lemon butter sauce. Serve it with some crusty bread or over pasta for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the butter and swirl it around until melted.
3. Add the garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
4. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice, white wine (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Simmer the sauce for an additional 1-2 minutes or until slightly thickened.
8. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the lemon butter sauce.
9. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This vibrant pasta dish combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., linguine, fettuccine)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup 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. 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 until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and reserved pasta water (if needed). Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pesto Chicken Alfredo Pasta
A rich and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of Italy with the boldness of pesto. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1/2 cup store-bought or homemade pesto
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine 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 chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing into strips.
3. In the same skillet, add pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. Add cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet and toss with the pesto sauce until well coated.
5. Add sliced chicken to the pasta and toss again to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Cheesy Taco Pasta
A deliciously comforting one-pot meal that combines the flavors of tacos with pasta, cheese, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb. pasta (such as penne or rotini)
– 1 lb. ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 packet taco seasoning
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in taco seasoning and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add cooked pasta, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro (if using); stir until cheese is melted and sauce is creamy.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Mushroom Pasta
Roasted Garlic and Mushroom Pasta Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of roasted garlic and earthy mushrooms in this simple yet satisfying pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 3-4 cloves of garlic
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the garlic: Cut the top off each clove, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until soft and mashed.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Sauté mushrooms in a large skillet with olive oil over medium-high heat. Add white wine (if using) and cook until liquid is almost gone.
5. Combine roasted garlic, cooked pasta, sautéed mushrooms, and thyme in the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun Shrimp and Sausage Pasta
Get ready for a spicy kick with this bold and flavorful pasta dish, packed with succulent shrimp and savory sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound linguine pasta
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 Cajun sausages, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes or until browned.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add shrimp and Cajun seasoning; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
5. Combine pasta, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Pea Carbonara
This creamy pasta dish combines the richness of bacon with the sweetness of peas, all wrapped up in a velvety egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 3 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
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 water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the peas to the same skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti, bacon, and peas to the egg mixture. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Cook for 1-2 minutes or until the eggs are cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Cream Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of fresh basil, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 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 pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil and cook for an additional minute.
5. 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.
6. Add reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
7. Combine cooked pasta with tomato-basil sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Lobster Pasta
A rich and decadent pasta dish that combines the sweetness of lobster with the savory flavors of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb lobster meat, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add lobster meat and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. If using wine and cream, add to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta with garlic butter lobster sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells
A creamy, cheesy twist on the classic stuffed shell recipe, featuring the earthy flavors of spinach and artichoke.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach, artichoke hearts, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-artichoke mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Top shells with mozzarella cheese and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella
Classic Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella Recipe
This comforting Italian-American dish is a staple for any occasion, perfect for family gatherings or casual weeknight meals. With its creamy ricotta filling and melted mozzarella topping, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 16 ounces ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, 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 bowl, combine ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well to combine.
4. Add marinara sauce to the ricotta mixture and stir until smooth.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of ziti pasta. Top with the ricotta-marinara mixture, followed by another layer of pasta.
6. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio with Chili Flakes
A classic Italian recipe gets a spicy twist! This dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, and the addition of chili flakes gives it a bold flavor boost.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more to taste)
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, 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, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fragrant.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and chili flakes.
6. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Brown Butter Pasta
Warm up with a rich and comforting pasta dish that combines the flavors of roasted pumpkin, sage, and brown butter.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 1 small pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh sage, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add chopped sage and cooked pumpkin to the skillet. Stir until well combined.
5. Combine brown butter mixture with cooked pasta. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Olive and Feta Pasta
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the richness of feta cheese, the brininess of Kalamata olives, and the warmth of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (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, heat the olive oil over medium-low. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the crumbled feta cheese and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute, until the cheese starts to melt.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the olive-feta mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese
A comforting classic with a nutritious twist, this broccoli-infused macaroni and cheese dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli in butter until tender.
4. In a separate saucepan, whisk together milk, flour, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, broccoli mixture, and cheese sauce. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional noodle salads, this Thai-inspired dish combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the crunch of fresh vegetables and noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 cup chopped scallions
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped peanuts or cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked noodles, scallions, cucumber, bell pepper, and peanut sauce. Toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped nuts, if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Balsamic Glazed Steak and Mushroom Pasta
A rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender steak, sautéed mushrooms, and a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz flank steak
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season steak with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear steak for 2-3 minutes per side, then transfer to the oven. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until desired doneness.
4. While steak is cooking, sauté mushrooms and garlic in same skillet over medium heat until tender.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet with mushrooms, tossing to combine.
7. Slice cooked steak against the grain and add to pasta. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
8. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caprese Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella
Caprese Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella Recipe
Simplify your summer dinner with this vibrant and flavorful pasta dish, featuring fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 large tomato, diced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced (about 1 cup)
– Parmesan cheese, grated (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 separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Stir in diced tomato and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with tomato mixture.
5. Top pasta with sliced fresh mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with basil.
6. If desired, add grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in a world of flavors with these 20 mouth-watering pasta recipes! From classic comfort dishes to bold international twists, there’s something for every occasion. Try creamy garlic parmesan pasta, spicy arrabbiata pasta, or lemon butter shrimp scampi for a taste sensation. Or, go for one-pot cheesy taco pasta, roasted garlic and mushroom pasta, or cajun shrimp and sausage pasta for a flavorful fiesta. These recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these delicious and tasty pasta recipes have got you covered!
