I Cook Pasta Every Week And Always Use 27 Recipes

Pasta night has a way of making the week feel anchored, especially when it’s built around 27 reliable favorites. It’s the kind of structure that takes the guesswork out of at least one dinner every seven days. These are the choices that require no extra convincing or second-guessing.

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

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.

Perfect for feeding a crowd or saving leftovers for lunch during the week this is both rich and practical. Million Dollar Spaghetti combines layers of big flavor into one dish that’s easy to bake and share. It pairs perfectly with simple sides like bread or salad and is always a hit whenever it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Baked Ziti

A spoon scoops baked ziti pasta covered in melted cheese and tomato sauce from a casserole dish.
Baked Ziti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Ideal when you want something filling that’s easy to prepare this recipe simplifies meal prep without cutting corners on taste. Baked Ziti creates a comforting mix of bold flavors and textures all baked into one worthwhile dish. It’s great for weeknight dinners or serving larger groups when you don’t want to make a mess.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

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.

Simple pasta meals with a mix of hearty textures are always a good choice when planning weekly dinners. Spaghetti Bolognese is easy to serve family-style or as portions, and it remains one of those timeless recipes everyone loves. It feels balanced while still being flavorful enough to feature as the main dish.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Combining pasta with a creamy, rich broth creates an easy, comforting meal perfect for any weeknight. Marry Me Chicken Soup offers tender ingredients simmered together in a way that feels like a complete dinner on its own. It’s ideal for warming up after a long day while still being easy to pack for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

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.

A great option for busy weeknights or when you’re prepping meals for the week it checks all the boxes for simplicity and serving size. Spaghetti Casserole combines all the comfort of classic pasta dishes into one baked version that’s ideal for sharing. It’s hearty enough to stand alone but also pairs wonderfully with light sides like salads.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Tortellini Soup

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

Perfect for creating a cozy meal without much stress this soup is simple but packed with filling ingredients. Tortellini Soup takes the flavors of classic pasta dishes and adds a warming twist that works for lunch or dinner. It’s easy to adjust for smaller servings or larger groups which makes meal prep easy.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Pizza Casserole

A close-up of a baked pasta dish with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, and herbs, showing a serving being lifted, revealing gooey cheese strands.
Pizza Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A fun twist on traditional pasta dishes this baked option is perfect for rewarding everyone at the table. Pizza Casserole blends familiar flavors into one easy-to-prepare dish that’s great for weeknights. It pairs well with sides like garlic bread or even a fresh salad to make it feel more complete.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Best Lemon Pasta

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

Light yet flavorful this is perfect for quick meals or as a fresh centerpiece to larger spreads. Best Lemon Pasta balances bright flavors with hearty textures in a way that feels easy and complete for any occasion. It pairs well with sides like vegetables or bread and works just as well served warm as it does room temperature.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Simple to make and great for every pasta night this recipe keeps things straightforward without losing its appeal. Cheese Ravioli works well as a standalone dish or paired with fresh sides like vegetables to round things out. It’s ideal for anyone wanting a complete but low-effort meal during the week.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Aglio e Olio

Close-up of fettuccine pasta tossed with grated cheese, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes being lifted with a fork.
Aglio e Olio. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Perfect for weeknights when time is short this recipe creates a flavorful pasta dish with minimal effort. Aglio e Olio keeps things light but doesn’t skip on bold taste which makes it stand out even with simple preparation. It pairs well with crusty bread or fresh salads to make dinner feel complete without any complications.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

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.

A comforting and filling baked option this is ideal for feeding larger groups or creating leftovers for the week. Hamburger Casserole mixes classic flavors into one easy prep meal that holds up well over time. It pairs wonderfully with lighter sides like steamed vegetables or fresh salads for a balanced table.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Chicken Ramen

Close-up of a bowl of ramen with minced meat, spinach, sliced scallions, half a soft-boiled egg, and noodles in broth, garnished with sesame seeds and pepper.
Chicken Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Adding hearty portions of chicken to classic noodles this recipe is perfect for quick meals that feel homemade. Chicken Ramen blends warm flavors and filling textures into a bowl that’s easy to eat and even easier to prepare. It’s flexible enough to adjust for larger servings which makes it great for feeding family or friends.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Ramen

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.

An interesting take on classic lasagna flavors this soup condenses the hearty favorite into a bowl that’s perfect for busy evenings. Spicy Lasagna Soup combines bold ingredients and easy preparation making it convenient for quick weeknight cooking. It works wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side to round out the meal without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Chicken Noodle Casserole

Close-up of a chicken noodle casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A baked choice that turns a classic soup into a filling, shareable dinner making it reliable for busy nights. Chicken Noodle Casserole eliminates extra steps while bringing together familiar flavors in one dish. Perfect for serving to groups without worrying about individual portions. Ideal for regular meals requiring simplicity and full enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

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.

Bringing rich flavors to the table without much effort this is perfect for everything from casual dinners to weekly meal prep. Tuscan Pasta combines worthwhile textures with bold seasoning that feels complete on its own or paired with lighter sides. It’s easy to reheat which makes it great for leftovers during busy schedules.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Baking stuffed pasta in layers feels like the easiest way to make something hearty for dinner. Three Cheese Manicotti brings a creamy, bold flavor in every bite without needing complicated steps. It’s perfect for making in large batches to ensure handy leftovers or feeding a big table.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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.

A minimalist pasta that combines creamy bites into a freshly made dish suitable for any weeknight. Cacio e Pepe stays on the rotation for balancing simplicity and deliciousness without fuss. Its effortless preparation ensures it remains a favorite for quick, comforting meals. Ideal when pasta nights need something classic yet dependable.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Ravioli Casserole

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

Baked to perfection this one-pan recipe takes ravioli to a new level of convenience for family dinners. Ravioli Casserole creates a dish that’s hearty and easy to serve while saving time for any busy schedule. Pair alongside light sides or enjoy as-is for a rewarding experience that feels just right every time.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

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.

A creamy favorite that feels indulgent while only taking minutes to put together for any meal of the day. Pasta Carbonara balances hearty textures with simplicity making it a crowd-pleaser that fits in even on busy schedules. It pairs nicely with freshly baked bread or simple greens to round out the table.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Marry Me Chicken Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked pasta topped with melted cheese and garnished with chopped herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Combining big flavor with easy preparation this baked dish blends impressive textures into one meal that’s perfect for group servings. Marry Me Chicken Casserole keeps everything in one pan which means less cleanup after dinner and makes prep simple. It pairs beautifully with lighter sides like salad or vegetables when you want a complete table that’s hassle-free.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

A white dish filled with cooked fusilli pasta, cherry tomatoes, spinach, and mushrooms in a creamy sauce, with a silver fork resting inside.
Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Trendy recipes can become weekly favorites when they deliver on flavor and convenience. Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta takes a baked pasta twist with creamy layers that feel comforting and easy to prepare. One dish is often enough for a family meal or great as leftovers for the next day. A modern pasta option that deserves a spot in your regular rotation.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta

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.

Pasta combined with seafood flavors feels special while still being approachable for any day of the week. Marry Me Shrimp Pasta blends tender bites with creamy, bold flavors that make it a standout meal. It’s light enough to enjoy often but filling enough to rely on for a complete dinner. A recipe to keep close when you’re looking for something unique yet simple.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Shrimp Pasta

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.

Combining comfort food classics with pasta turns dinner into an instant win for the whole table. Cheeseburger Pasta mixes hearty, kid-friendly flavors into a meal that works for quick weeknight dinners. It reheats well and can be scaled up easily for larger groups or meal prep. A fun recipe to repeat when your menu needs more variety without adding complexity.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger 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.

Lighter pasta dishes that combine fresh flavors with filling bites are perfect for everyday meals. Pasta Primavera keeps things balanced with its simple preparation and works great on its own or paired with proteins. It’s ideal for casual dinners or when you want something easy that tastes fresh. A reliable option to keep in rotation when simplicity is key.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Spicy Udon Noodles

Close-up of stir-fried noodles with vegetables, including carrots, green beans, and chopped red peppers, garnished with sesame seeds. Chopsticks are picking up some noodles.
Spicy Udon Noodles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Pasta that brings bold and spicy flavors mixes up the weekly routine in the best way possible. Spicy Udon Noodles offer thick, chewy noodles combined with a kick, making it exciting yet still easy to prepare. It’s quick to adjust depending on how much heat you want in your meal.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A restaurant-inspired dish that pairs stuffed pasta with creamy sauce perfect for enjoyable repetition. Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara hits all the right notes for familiar flavors everyone loves making it a go-to. Simple to prepare and easy to serve ensuring its place in regular meals. Perfect for nights when comfort meets ease in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Adding a kick to pasta night is a great way to shake up your weekly recipes. Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta brings heat and smoky flavor in a dish that feels hearty but not overcomplicated. It pairs well with simple sides or stands alone as a complete meal for quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

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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