What Worked Best Again Were 29 My Favorite Pasta Recipes

Things got suspiciously quiet at the dinner table, which usually means someone nailed it. Turns out, having 29 solid pasta picks up your sleeve is a real power move. These aren’t flashy, but they always deliver without turning the kitchen into a disaster zone. Every bowl seemed to get scraped clean faster than you can say “What’s for dessert?”

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.

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.

Soups that carry bold flavors while being easy to prepare are hard to beat. Marry Me Chicken Soup brings richness and heartiness into a bowl you can enjoy anytime. It’s the kind of recipe that feels complete on its own without needing extras. A great option for both busy dinners and quiet afternoons.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken 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.

Adding a savory twist to pasta can make it stand out from the usual. Italian Pasta with Salami combines vibrant flavors and textures into something simple yet special. It’s perfect for quick meals while still feeling different from everyday dishes. A handy recipe for when you want to try something new but easy.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

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.

Simple recipes don’t mean giving up rich flavors. Aglio e Olio focuses on a few bold details that come together fast for an easy pasta meal. It’s light but satisfying and works for any time of day. A fantastic choice when you need something quick but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Aglio e Olio

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.

Classics like this never go out of style. Mac and Cheese keeps things comforting and familiar while being easy to whip up whenever you want. It’s rich enough for dinner but also makes a great side for any meal. Always a favorite for both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

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.

Viral recipes can actually save time in the kitchen. Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok Pasta is ridiculously simple to make and delivers creamy, indulgent pasta without much effort. It’s easy to customize, making it perfect for picky eaters or adventurous ones. A fun recipe that’s as quick as it is flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Boursin Cheese Baked TikTok 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.

Turning pasta into a casserole always simplifies dinnertime. Ravioli Casserole brings all the comfort of stuffed pasta but layers it into an easy-to-make bake. It’s a hearty option that doesn’t need any sides to feel like a complete meal. A dependable dish for when you want pasta and ease combined.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

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

A twist on a comfort food favorite is always fun to try. The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole transforms the familiar flavors of a burger into a baked pasta that everyone reaches for. It’s quick to assemble and always a hit for weeknight dinners. Perfect for when you need hearty, family-approved meals in no time.
Get the Recipe: The BEST Cheeseburger Casserole

Italian Pasta Salad

Bowtie pasta salad with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, fresh basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze in a green bowl.
Italian Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cold pasta dishes can feel fresh without being overly complicated. Italian Pasta Salad combines bold textures into something simple yet balanced as a meal or side. It’s easy to bring together and works well for meal prepping or quick lunches. A great option for pasta lovers who enjoy a chilled twist.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta Salad

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.

Soups inspired by classic pasta recipes are a creative way to change things up. Spicy Lasagna Soup takes the comfort of lasagna and adds a little heat, all in a manageable bowl. It’s filling on its own, which makes it perfect for weeknight dinners. A fun way to enjoy lasagna flavors without dealing with layers.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Lasagna Soup

Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

A Caesar salad with grilled chicken, penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, croutons, and shredded cheese, topped with Caesar dressing on a bed of lettuce.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Taking the flavors of a salad and combining them with pasta makes it more filling. Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a great recipe for lunches or simple dinners when you need something quick. It balances the heartiness of pasta with a fresh taste that feels lighter. An easy choice for feeding a group or prepping ahead.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad

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.

Ramen gets a fresh perspective with Birria Ramen, making bowls feel larger and much more filling than they seem. The combination stays playful while delivering easy portions you can customize however you like. Great for larger meals but still works well for single servings when you want hearty but fast. Runs circles around traditional ramen nights.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Tortellini Soup

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

Soups loaded with pasta make for a quick and complete meal. Tortellini Soup is simple to prepare and full of filling ingredients that work for all ages. It’s an easy one-pot meal that doesn’t demand extra sides or toppings. A comforting option whenever you need something easy but hearty.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turning pasta into a casserole makes everything more convenient. Easy Chicken Casserole combines tender pasta and rich flavors into one bake that’s perfect for sharing. It’s easy to prep and works really well for busy evenings or leftovers. A go-to recipe when you need dinner to come together with no fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

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 pasta dishes are always refreshing and easy to prepare. Macaroni Salad offers a versatile side dish or even a light main for when you need something simple. It pairs well with almost anything and can be made ahead for picnics or busy lunches. It’s definitely a recipe worth keeping around.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

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.

Comfort food doesn’t have to take forever. Chicken Noodle Casserole brings the familiar flavors of a classic soup into an easy casserole format. It’s filling, warm, and works for weeknights when time is tight. A practical dish with that homemade touch everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

Elevated Ramen Noodles

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

Transforming something humble makes it exciting again. Elevated Ramen Noodles bring a fun twist to the classic dish with just a little extra effort. It’s perfect for quick meals that feel like an upgrade but don’t take up your evening. A great way to enjoy noodles in a completely new style.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

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.

Soup and pasta together make for a dependable duo. Minestrone Soup is packed with balanced flavors and hearty enough to stand alone as a meal. It’s simple to prepare in one pot and serves well for both small or large groups. A warm and filling option that’s easy to adjust to your liking.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

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.

Simplifying a meal doesn’t mean skimping on flavor. Hamburger Casserole pulls together hearty beef, pasta, and comfort in one easy dish. It’s great for family dinners or meal prepping for busy weeks. A great choice when you need something filling and effortless.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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

Adding greens to a pasta bake can feel fulfilling and complete. Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna gives you all the richness of classic lasagna with a fresh, balanced twist. It’s still hearty enough for a main course and works great for leftovers. A solid pick when you want layers of flavor without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

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.

Pasta salads that mix various textures are always enjoyable. Taco Pasta Salad brings together a playful take on tacos with the simplicity of pasta in one easy dish. It’s a creative option for lunches or casual dinners. A fun way to switch up your usual pasta routine.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Gnocchi

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

Soft, pillowy options for pasta are hard not to love. Gnocchi gives you a comforting dish that’s versatile enough to work with any sauce you’re craving. It cooks quickly and feels rewarding whether served as a main or side. A simple pasta to keep on hand for fast but complete meals.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi

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.

Old-school pasta bakes are perfect for gatherings or make-ahead meals. Baked Ziti delivers loads of flavor and is easy to throw together when you’re short on time. It’s hearty, cheesy, and comes together into a dish everyone goes back for. Great for feeding a crowd or saving for leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti

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.

Mixing pasta with bold global flavors is always a fun twist. Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini combines rich beef-filled pasta with lively spices in a way that livens up dinner. It’s easy to prepare and doesn’t require fancy steps to shine. A creative option for pasta lovers looking for something different but manageable.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Beef Enchilada Tortellini

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 recipes feel like instant hits after the first try. Marry Me Tortellini is one of those, with tender pasta combined in a way that comes out just right every time. It works great as a main dish for busy nights or casual dinners. A smart choice for something quick, flavorful, and memorable.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini

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.

Bringing together pizza and pasta in a single dish feels genius. Pizza Casserole simplifies all the flavors of pizza into a bake that anyone can enjoy. It’s easy to prep and delivers that cheesy, comforting experience all in one bite. Great for both weeknights and group gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Casserole

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.

Classic meals like this always find their place at the dinner table for good reason. Homemade Lasagna delivers hearty, flavorful layers in every bite without needing too much work. It’s dependable for gatherings or making ahead for busy days. Everyone asks for seconds whenever this warm, layered favorite is served.
Get the Recipe: Homemade 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.

Keeping it quick while exploring fun spices keeps dinner fresh. Spicy Udon Noodles are perfect for getting a kick of flavor with zero unnecessary steps. It’s a dish that feels bold without feeling overwhelming. A quick noodle meal with just the right twist to brighten the menu.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Udon Noodles

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.

Pasta dishes don’t get much more comforting than this. Three Cheese Manicotti takes stuffed pasta and bakes it to perfection without being overly complicated. It’s a cheesy, warm recipe for when you need something special yet simple. An ideal option for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

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.

Inspired by restaurant favorites, this one saves you time without losing flavor. Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta brings creamy noodle goodness right to your kitchen in a fast and easy way. It works perfectly for when you’re craving something familiar but cooking from home. A fun way to enjoy a popular dish without the wait to dine out.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi 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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