I Prepped 29 of My Favorite Pasta Recipes in One Go

Batch-prepping 29 kinds of pasta is a bold move, especially for someone who can’t usually decide what to eat. The good news is, every craving now has backup. Spaghetti, penne, spirals, there was no noodle left behind, and no shelf in the fridge left empty. If meal prep had a competitive league, this would probably get a trophy shaped like a colander.

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

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.

When you need something filling that pleases all ages, nothing hits the spot quite like a big pan of Hamburger Casserole. This one layers familiar flavors, so everyone can dig in for seconds without much thought. It’s easy to scoop, serve, and even easier to eat. People ask for leftovers before you pack it up.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Penne Alla Vodka

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

Creamy, rich sauces always get a crowd’s attention at dinnertime. Plates of Penne Alla Vodka shine with that perfect balance between classic comfort and something a little special. It’s a pasta dish that feels right for both family meals and special gatherings. Every forkful gets a nod of approval.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

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.

Sometimes picking a meal for a big group feels tough, but something like Pizza Casserole makes things simple. It brings together those favorite flavors everyone already knows, just with a new twist. No one can ever seem to turn down a second helping. You’ll see the pan empty before you even get comfortable.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

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.

Friends always lean in for another bowl when they hear that Cheeseburger Pasta is on the menu. Combining comfort food elements in one pot, this recipe works any night of the week. It appeals to grown-ups and kids alike, especially when they’re hungry. Even picky eaters go back for more.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Gnocchi

A bowl of gnocchi topped with grated cheese, fresh basil, and black pepper.
Gnocchi. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft and pillowy, Gnocchi brings something lighter and a bit more unique to the table. People love talking about the texture difference from the usual noodles. It matches with any sauce or addition you might have around. This one turns a simple dinner into something everyone remembers.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

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.

Layered, hearty, and smelling great straight from the oven, Homemade Lasagna is a block party classic. It somehow always feeds more than you think and leaves everyone full. Watching the first square be cut makes people smile. Every batch goes faster than expected, no matter how large the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

A plate of spaghetti topped with grilled chicken strips and garnished with chopped parsley, bell peppers, and shredded cheese.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Anyone who enjoys restaurant classics gets excited for Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Bringing bold flavor and a mix of textures, it keeps the meal entertaining. Guests pile their plates with it for both lunch and dinner. It’s the type of dish people talk about for days after.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Elevated Ramen Noodles

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

When plain noodles won’t do, Elevated Ramen Noodles can be a real game changer. Dress them up, and suddenly everyone wants seconds. It’s a fast way to turn the ordinary into something special. Even seasoned pasta lovers are pleasantly surprised by this one.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Few meals draw people to the kitchen like a big pot of Mac and Cheese. Thick, creamy, and always crowd-pleasing, this one is usually gone by the time dinner wraps up. It’s just as welcome at a kid’s party or a grown-up get-together. Most folks want to scrape the bottom of the pan for every last bit.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Having friends over feels easier when Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara is on the menu. It captures everything people love about restaurant meals but with extra heart. Easy to portion out and appealing to many palates, it vanishes fast. Guests never mind a second serving of this one.
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.

Add a little heat at dinner with Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. It’s got enough kick to make things interesting but still keeps folks coming back for more. Those looking for bold meals often find this their new favorite. Every bite brings something different without masking the pasta goodness.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

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.

Everyone leans closer for a plate of Million Dollar Spaghetti. Big, bold flavors and a crowd-sized baking dish make it perfect for family gatherings. The blend of creamy sauce and tender noodles gives you something to look forward to after a long day. Leftovers, if there are any, make a super lunch the next day.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Marry Me Chicken Orzo

A skillet with creamy chicken pasta featuring spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, and grated cheese, stirred with a wooden spoon.
Marry Me Chicken Orzo. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Meal prep feels extra special once Marry Me Chicken Orzo is packed and ready to go. Mixing hearty grains with tender pieces, this pasta works for both solo nights and group dinners. Creamy, simple, and ready ahead of time, it fits every busy schedule. Friends always ask where you got the idea.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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.

Hitting all the notes for comfort, Chicken Ramen balances quick prep with full flavor. People looking for a lighter meal that still feels filling love this bowl. Adjust it any way you like, and it still works for work lunches or relaxed weekend meals. There’s a reason it pops up on so many tables worldwide.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Ramen

Mushroom Pasta

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

On nights when meat isn’t on the menu, try bringing out a hearty plate of Mushroom Pasta. Earthy, rich, and easy to love, this dish brings together fans of all ages. The texture keeps things interesting from start to finish. Make extra, because this one seems to vanish.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Pasta

Ravioli Casserole

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

Combining comfort with convenience, Ravioli Casserole gives traditional pasta a new homey twist. Big groups are happy to dig in scoop by scoop, with no need for extra sides. Hearty enough as a main, it also slides easily onto a busy plate. You’ll be asked to make it again soon after.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

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.

Bring a touch of something special when you serve up Morel Mushroom Pasta. It stands out thanks to its interesting texture combination. The flavor holds up even in a big spread, so everyone gets to enjoy at least a bite. This is one of those dishes that makes even simple dinners memorable.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

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.

Classic comfort dishes have to include Spaghetti Bolognese. Crowd-friendly and beloved across the board, it brings everyone together at the table. With a rich sauce and twirls of pasta, it feels both familiar and special. Even kids scrape their plates clean for just one more spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

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.

Simple, to the point, and always a hit, Cacio e Pepe shows off that you don’t need a long ingredient list to impress. Every bite is packed with both comfort and just enough kick. It appeals to true pasta lovers who appreciate honest dishes. This is where less really becomes more.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

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.

Sometimes, a big bowl of Minestrone Soup is what everyone needs, especially after a busy day. With pasta, vegetables, and a rich broth, there’s something for both hearty eaters and those after something lighter. It works both as a starter and a main meal. Make a big pot and let folks help themselves.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Spaghetti Marinara

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

Meals at home often start with something as comforting as Spaghetti Marinara. Plates get filled up quickly, and it pairs well with just about anything you might have left in your fridge. No one ever leaves hungry when this is on the table. It’s a classic for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

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.

Looking for a quick dinner with a little extra character? Bring out a bowl of Spicy Udon Noodles. Thick noodles soak up every bit of bold sauce, making it a go-to for fast meals. This also works well when you’re after something different but don’t want to fuss around.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

Taco Pasta Salad

A bowl of fusilli pasta mixed with ground beef, black beans, chopped tomatoes, and herbs, garnished with lime wedges.
Taco Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mixing up dinner with something unexpected can be a win for everyone. Plates of Taco Pasta Salad bring together fresh crunch and all those popular flavors in each scoop. It’s easy to pack up for get-togethers or weekday meals. Kids and grown-ups both reach for an extra helping.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

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.

Cheese fans always light up when Three Cheese Manicotti is served at dinner. Large shells hold in layers of creamy filling, perfect for soaking up sauce. It’s a tradition at many big gatherings and for good reason. People almost race to get the last piece before it’s gone.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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.

Those hunting for favorites will be happy to see Marry Me Chicken Casserole come out of the oven. Comfort food like this delivers on flavor every single time. Large groups run through it slice by slice. It’s special without feeling like any trouble at all.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Casserole

Cheese Ravioli

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

Simple comfort is easy to find in a dish of Cheese Ravioli. Pocketed pasta filled with goodness never fails to bring everyone together for second servings. It’s a kid favorite that plenty of adults enjoy too. Add a little sauce if you feel like mixing things up.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Macaroni Salad

A spoon lifting a serving of creamy macaroni salad with diced red onion and fresh herbs, with pepper sprinkled on top.
Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cold dishes often help balance out bigger meals, and Macaroni Salad fits right in every time. Tangy, creamy, and always crowd-friendly, it goes just as well with hot mains as it does on its own. Perfect for parties, potlucks, and meal prep. You might need to make a double batch next time.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Fork lifting a serving of cheesy cheeseburger casserole garnished with parsley.
The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When hearty options are needed, The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole makes every plate look better. This recipe blends burger-inspired flavor with the heartiness of pasta, so you get the best of both. It’s good enough for a busy weeknight or a weekend crowd. Clean plates speak for themselves at the end.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

Balancing comfort with a touch of green, Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna gets both kids and grown-ups eating more veggies without complaint. Each layer offers something creamy, cheesy, and a little bit different than everyday pasta. It’s perfect for meal prepping ahead. You won’t have leftovers to deal with.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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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