29 Pasta Recipes To Make Dinner Prep The Easiest Part Of Your Day

When dinner prep feels like a chore, pasta is always the answer. These 29 recipes take the guesswork out of mealtime, making it easy to whip up something delicious with minimal effort. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, dinner just got a whole lot simpler.

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re all about experimenting with flavors, we’ve got something special. It’s where Mexican cuisine meets Japanese, creating a fusion that’s bound to impress. Birria Ramen isn’t your usual noodle soup; it’s rich, it’s hearty, and it’s full of depth. You won’t look back once you’ve tried this combo, especially if you’re after something different.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Love the idea of a getaway but stuck at home? Tuscan Pasta brings Italy straight to your kitchen. It’s creamy, it’s comforting, and it’s packed with flavors that remind you of the countryside. One bite, and you’ll swear you can hear the rolling hills calling.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes simplicity is key and this classic dish proves it. It’s all about letting just a few ingredients shine in this timeless Roman pasta. Cacio e Pepe is perfect for when you want a meal that feels like a warm embrace. It’s effortlessly elegant, showing that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something special.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Pull out your deepest baking dish because it’s time to layer up flavors like an Italian nonna. With each layer, you’re building up anticipation for a rich and comforting dinner. Homemade Lasagna is a labor of love that pays off with every forkful. This is the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table and keeps them there, asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Break away from the usual plate of spaghetti and bake those noodles into something extraordinary. A comforting casserole twist on an old favorite is what you get with Spaghetti Casserole. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for a second round.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

A plate of creamy spaghetti with shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves.
Marry Me Shrimp Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You might find yourself with a few proposals after serving this enticing seafood pasta. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta is a dish that’s as charming as it is delicious. Rich, creamy, and full of flavor, this is the plate to impress someone special. It’s a dinner that speaks the language of love, especially for those who love their seafood.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

On those days when only a soup will do, this is the one to reach for. Tortellini Soup brings together hearty pasta pouches in a warm, rewarding broth. It’s like a cozy blanket for your soul, perfect for unwinding after a long day. Plus, it’s versatile enough to add your own twist or keep it classic.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Cheeseburger Pasta

A skillet filled with penne pasta topped with shredded cheese, ground beef, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles—a delicious take on cheeseburger pasta.
Cheeseburger Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ever wonder what happens when your favorite burger gets reinvented as a pasta dish? Well, Cheeseburger Pasta is your answer – a fun, family-friendly meal that combines two comfort foods into one. It’s as playful as it is filling, with all the familiar flavors you love. Perfect for those nights when you can’t decide between pasta and burgers.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a greener take on a classic, this dish might just become your new favorite. Bursting with creamy ricotta and spinach, Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is a twist that’s both rewarding and somewhat lighter. It’s great for a meal that feels indulgent but includes a serving of greens. And it’s just as welcome on a weeknight as it is at a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’ve got eggs, cheese, and pasta, you’re halfway to making this beloved dish. Pasta Carbonara is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s quick to prepare but absolutely full of rich flavor. Especially when you need a meal that feels like a reward, this is your go-to.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Take the delicate taste of ravioli to a new level by layering it in a casserole. Ravioli Casserole is comfort food made easy, with all the cheesy goodness you crave. It’s a fun spin on traditional ravioli that’s both worthwhile and convenient. Get ready for a dish that’ll become a repeat request at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Close-up of a Beef Enchilada Tortellini dish topped with ground meat, corn, black beans, and chopped green onions.
Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Kick things up a notch with this tasty, zingy pasta dish that has a bit of heat. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini folds in flavors traditionally found in Mexican cuisine. Expect a flavorful punch with each bite that’s both familiar and novel. It’s perfect for those who love a bit of spice in their lives.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your meal with a pasta that’s refreshingly light and zingy. It’s called Best Lemon Pasta for a reason, it brings a punch of citrus that upgrades your dining experience. It’s a sunny dish that’s perfect for shaking up the routine. Perfect for those evenings when you want something quick yet lively on your plate.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Indulge in some Eastern European comfort with a dish that’s hearty and rich. Creamy Beef Stroganoff offers a creamy sauce that complements the pasta perfectly. It’s perfect for cold evenings or when you need something worthwhile. Plus, it’s one of those classics that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you want a pasta with a velvety, tomato-based sauce, look no further. Penne Alla Vodka delivers just that, with a hint of indulgence from a splash of vodka. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily whip up at home. Impress guests or treat yourself with this smooth and creamy pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Close-up of a pasta dish with corn, bacon, and herbs, seasoned with a creamy yellow sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combine the heartiness of chicken and the sweetness of corn in a creamy sauce for this homey dish. Perfect for those nights when you want a bit of comfort on your plate, Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta delivers. It’s family-friendly, and sure to be a hit with kids and adults alike. The combination makes for a meal that’s both familiar and worthwhile.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your dinner with a dish that’s packed with fresh veggies and flavors. Pasta Primavera is like a celebration of the season, but it’s amusing any time of the year. It’s a colorful choice that’s loaded with nutrition and taste. This is one to keep up your sleeve for a lighter pasta option that’s still fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Spicy Lasagna Soup

Close-up of a plate of pasta topped with a red tomato-based sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Spicy Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

If you love lasagna but want something more slurp-able, this dish is for you. Imagine all your favorite lasagna elements deconstructed into a Spicy Lasagna Soup. It has a bit of kick for those who enjoy some heat with their comfort food. It’s like lasagna met soup and they became the best of friends, ready to warm you up from the inside.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Who said creamy pasta can’t be plant-based and delicious? This dairy-free dish, Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta, delivers just that. It’s full of rich, tasty flavors without any animal products. It’s a great way to enjoy a creamy pasta while sticking to a vegan lifestyle.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Mushroom Pasta

Close-up of fusilli pasta with mushrooms, garnished with rosemary and black pepper.
Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For the fungi enthusiast, there’s no going wrong with a hearty mushroom-centric pasta. Earthy and rich, Mushroom Pasta is perfect for those who appreciate the humble mushroom’s flavor. It’s a dish that proves simplicity can still make an impact. Suitable for a quiet dinner at home or as the centerpiece at a gathering of friends.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Take your ramen game to the next level with this sophisticated twist. Elevated Ramen Noodles aren’t just for dorm rooms; they grow up to be gourmet with the right touches. It’s a creative take on the instant classic, proving that ramen has its place at the dinner table too. It’s a quick, worthwhile fix that feels more ‘chef’s special’ than ‘student staple’.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For something a bit fancy, this pasta celebrates the esteemed morel mushroom. Immerse in Morel Mushroom Pasta for an earthy, luxurious eating experience. It’s a dish that brings a touch of the wild to your plate. And it’s perfect for impressing at a dinner party or enjoying on a special night in.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s all about the sauce in this quintessential pasta dish that’s loved worldwide. Spaghetti Marinara is a testament to the power of a good tomato sauce. Make it your go-to for a quick, unfussy meal that always pleases. It’s as much a staple as it is a canvas for your own culinary flair.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Combine the heartiness of a burger with the coziness of a casserole in this family favorite. Hamburger Casserole layers beef, cheese, and pasta for a fulfilling dinner. It’s a dish that’s both familiar and comforting, perfect for those busy weeknights. Kids will love it, and adults will appreciate the nostalgia it brings.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A hearty meat sauce clinging to strands of spaghetti is what makes this dish a global comfort classic. With Spaghetti Bolognese, you’ve got a worthwhile plate that’s perfect for meat lovers. It’s a go-to for a reason, known to fill bellies and bring smiles. Next time you’re in need of a warm meal, remember this timeless choice.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When your soul is calling for a soup that’s brimming with veggies, beans, and pasta, this is the answer. Minestrone Soup is a robust, Italian soup that’s a meal in itself. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and perfect for those days when you crave something wholesome. Plus, it’s versatile so you can make it your own with whatever’s in season or in the pantry.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a bit of spice to your pasta night with some Italian flair you can taste in every bite. Salami brings a smoky and tasty boost to Italian Pasta with Salami. Perfect for shaking up your pasta routine with something bold and meaty. It’s a fusion of simple ingredients that come together for a dish that’s big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Who doesn’t love a dish that tastes like a million bucks but is surprisingly straightforward to make? Million Dollar Spaghetti combines rich, cheesy layers with comforting pasta. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s ideal for potlucks or family dinners. A little bit indulgent, but completely worth it for the smiles it puts on faces.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Channel the Sicilian spirit with a dish that highlights the robust flavors of the region. Pasta alla Norma is a celebration of simplicity, with a touch of elegance. It’s perfect for those who love their pasta with a bit of Mediterranean zing. End your day with this dish and you’ll feel like you’re dining by the Italian seaside.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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