I’ve Lost Count Of How Often I Make 29 Favorite Pasta Recipes

These 29 pasta recipes didn’t just earn a spot on the menu; they became the fallback, the backup, and the usual request all rolled into one. They’re the kind that quietly take over until you realize you’ve made the same one twice this week and no one’s complaining. If a recipe gets used so often that you stop checking the steps, it’s probably doing something right.

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

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.

There’s something comforting about a warm bowl of soup that feels like a hug. Marry Me Chicken Soup has a rich, hearty twist that sets it apart. It’s loaded with familiar flavors you’ll come back to every time. This is one of those soups you’ll want to make time and again without thinking twice.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Cheese Ravioli

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

Pasta night always feels special when it’s done right. Cheese Ravioli brings a creamy, cheesy touch that everyone seems to love. It’s simple yet somehow always feels like the perfect centerpiece for a meal. Whether for a casual dinner or something more planned, it’s hard to get tired of this favorite.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

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.

When you think of pasta that feels like a treat, this one comes to mind quickly. Million Dollar Spaghetti combines layers that give it a memorable taste every time. It’s comforting and has just the right balance of ingredients to make it unique. You might even find yourself making this recipe more than you thought you would.
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.

For a twist on classic pasta dishes, this one is hard to beat. Marry Me Chicken Orzo brings together something familiar with flavors that surprise you. It blends textures and tastes in a way that leaves you wanting another bite. It’s easy to see why this recipe gets repeated so often.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Orzo

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.

If you’re in the mood for a hearty meal, this is the way to go. Hamburger Casserole takes comforting basics and turns them into a dish everyone enjoys. It’s filling, flavorful, and brings a sense of homemade warmth. The kind of meal people request over and over without hesitation.
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.

Quick yet full of flavor, this option is great for busy days. Chicken Ramen is one of those dishes that balances ease with a meal you actually look forward to. It’s a solid way to break from routine without overcomplicating things. Whether it’s a main dish or something to enjoy on its own, this one’s always a win.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Ramen

Ravioli Casserole

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

Sometimes you need something easy that everyone at the table will enjoy. Ravioli Casserole gives you just that, combining pasta with layers of flavor that work perfectly. It’s the perfect balance of classic and comforting, all in one. The kind of recipe you’re going to keep close for those busy days.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Best Lemon Pasta

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

When you want something simple yet unforgettable, this one stands out. Best Lemon Pasta brings refreshing flavors with just enough depth to make every bite great. It’s the sort of pasta dish that feels different but still satisfies in every way. An easy go-to recipe that somehow feels special every time.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

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.

You don’t need to choose between pasta and your other favorite comfort dish with this recipe. Pizza Casserole combines what’s lovable about both without any extra fuss. Every bite brings flavors you already know you’ll like, which is part of its charm. It’s a fun take on familiar ingredients that’s worth making often.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

Tortellini Soup

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

There’s something warm and lovely about soup when it hits the spot. Tortellini Soup takes that experience up a notch with a pasta that always works. It’s cozy and hearty, perfect for a quick meal that still feels filling. A recipe so dependable, you’ll lose track of how many times you’ve made it.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

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.

If you’re ready for something bold, this dish doesn’t disappoint. Tuscan Pasta mixes classic tastes with enough variety to keep every bite interesting. It’s hard to resist going back for seconds when it’s on the table. Definitely one of those recipes that ends up in your regular rotation.
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.

Pasta doesn’t get more classic than this, yet it feels timeless for a reason. Cacio e Pepe keeps it simple but perfect, with only a few ingredients coming together beautifully. It’s the kind of dish where less really is more. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular night, this recipe fits the bill.
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.

Few dishes bring a table together the way this one does. Homemade Lasagna layers ingredients in a way that makes every slice something to look forward to. It’s all about the balance in each forkful that earns repeat requests. This is the kind of meal that stays a favorite for years to come.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

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.

Growing up, this was always a popular choice at family dinners. Mac and Cheese is all about that creamy texture and comforting flavor that just feels right every time you make it. It’s hard to stop yourself from going back for seconds because it’s so perfect for any occasion. Whether as a side dish or the main event, it just never gets old.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Backyard gatherings and potlucks aren’t complete without this staple. Macaroni Salad comes together as a cool, creamy dish that’s refreshing in its simplicity. It feels just as fitting for a quick meal prep or as a light dish for larger events. It’s one of those recipes you make frequently because it’s so reliable.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Marry Me Tortellini

A bowl of creamy tortellini pasta with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, herbs, and a basil garnish.
Marry Me Tortellini. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Some dishes just live up to their name, and Marry Me Tortellini might be one of them. With every bite, it offers a balance of rich flavors that pair well with the cheesy tortellini. You’ll understand why this recipe earns repeat requests after your first try. It’s a great option when you want something comforting and crowd-pleasing.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

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.

Whenever you want something hearty and packed, this is an easy choice. Minestrone Soup combines so many textures in every spoonful that it feels like a meal on its own. It’s a recipe that works for lunch or dinner because it’s filling without feeling too heavy. You’ll probably find yourself making it way too often.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

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.

Anytime you want to recreate that restaurant feel, this is the go-to recipe. Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara brings those familiar comforting flavors right to your kitchen. It’s perfect for times when you want something indulgent and rich. You might even prefer making this at home over going out!
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

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.

Quick meals that bring comfort are hard to beat, and this fits the bill perfectly. Creamy Beef Stroganoff comes together as a hearty option that’s ideal after a long day. There’s something about its creamy texture and bold flavors that makes it a weeknight favorite. It’s a reliable choice when you want something fast yet filling.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

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.

Recipes that feel simple yet flavorful are always in high demand. Pasta Carbonara is one of those dishes where the balance of ingredients creates comfort in every bite. It’s the kind of recipe that doesn’t take up much time but still feels special. It’s no wonder it’s made repeatedly in so many kitchens.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

Penne Alla Vodka

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

When pasta meets a unique twist, this is often the result. Penne Alla Vodka is a creamy, bold, and flavorful recipe that feels like it’s made for special moments. You don’t need to wait for a big event to enjoy it, though; it’s surprisingly easy to make regularly. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

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.

Bringing together unexpected flavors can be so satisfying, and this recipe is proof of that. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini combines layers of bold ingredients that come together seamlessly. It’s one of those recipes that’s perfect when you want something different yet so reassuringly familiar. Get ready for it to be on repeat in your kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

Once you’ve made this once, it’s hard not to make it again. Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna is one of those classics that brings balance to the table with creamy layers and comforting bites. It’s a go-to for family dinners, meal prep, or even as a dish to share with others. It’s just the kind of recipe that fits any moment.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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.

For something with a satisfying kick, this is an easy choice. Spicy Udon Noodles come together to create a welcome change of pace when you want bold flavors. It’s quick to make yet doesn’t lack the complexity you’d expect from a favorite dish. There’s a good reason why it makes repeat appearances in so many kitchens!
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon 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.

When you want something with rich, earthy notes, this recipe delivers. Morel Mushroom Pasta feels transformed while still being easy to make, which is part of what makes it so appealing. It’s great for special dinners or whenever you want to treat yourself. There’s a reason this recipe has a way of sticking around your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Morel 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.

Taking something simple to the next level isn’t always easy, but Elevated Ramen Noodles nails it. This recipe transforms an everyday staple into something that feels more put together. It’s a great option when you don’t have a lot of time but still want something memorable. You’ll probably find yourself making it repeatedly before too long.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

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.

Balancing rich and tangy notes, this is a recipe you’ll want to keep making. Pasta alla Norma delivers layers of flavors you can’t resist once you try it. It’s one of those dishes that feels versatile enough for different occasions and seasons. After one bite, it’s easy to understand why it’s such a favorite for so many.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

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.

Taco Pasta Salad blends boldness with lightness in a way that just works every time. It’s the kind of recipe that’s easy to take to gatherings or enjoy at home. You’d be surprised at how often you’ll reach for it. Combining two popular dishes always brings something interesting to the table.
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.

Whether for family meals or special moments, this always leaves an impression. Three Cheese Manicotti strikes the perfect balance of richness and satisfaction in every bite. It feels like a dish best saved for gatherings, but it is worth making anytime. Trust me, you’ll want to have it on repeat once you try it.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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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