Looking to add some variety to your pasta dishes? Whether you're a vegetarian, trying to reduce your meat intake, or simply looking for new flavors, meatless pasta recipes are a fantastic option. Don't worry, we're not talking about boring salads or tasteless dishes. We've compiled a list of the best meatless pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most devoted meat lovers.
Get ready to dig into delicious, flavorful, and satisfying pasta dishes that are completely meat-free. From creamy sauces to hearty vegetables, these recipes will make you forget all about meat. So grab your fork and get ready to indulge in some mouthwatering meatless pasta creations!
1. Hearty Meatless Spaghetti Sauce
Hearty Meatless Spaghetti Sauce is a flavorful and satisfying meatless pasta sauce packed with veggies and fresh herbs. It has a thick and hearty texture, making it a perfect addition to any pasta dish.
This sauce is versatile and can be used in various recipes or as a dipping sauce. It is heart-healthy and filling, reducing excess fat and cholesterol. Overall, it's a delicious and nutritious option for those looking for a meatless pasta sauce.
2. Mushroom Spinach Pasta
Mushroom Spinach Pasta is a flavorful and creamy meatless pasta dish. It features farfalle pasta tossed with sautéed cremini mushrooms, diced onions, and minced garlic.
The dish is made rich and creamy with the addition of half and half and Parmesan cheese. The spinach adds a fresh and vibrant touch. Overall, this recipe is a delicious and satisfying option for those looking for a meatless pasta dish.
3. Vegetable Fusilli
Vegetable Fusilli is a delicious and customizable meatless pasta recipe. It features fusilli pasta cooked with fresh asparagus, frozen peas, shallots, garlic, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
The dish is finished off with a sprinkle of fresh Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon for a burst of freshness. It's a quick and easy weeknight dinner option that is both satisfying and flavorful.
4. Tomato Artichoke Pasta
Tomato Artichoke Pasta is a flavorful and easy vegetarian dish that is perfect for meatless Monday. Made with fresh tomatoes, artichokes, cheese, and a secret ingredient, this pasta is packed with umami flavor.
The sauce is light enough to coat the pasta without overpowering the taste of the tomatoes and artichokes. It's a quick and delicious option for those looking to incorporate more vegetarian recipes into their diets.
5. One-Pot Meatless Pasta
One-Pot Meatless Pasta is a quick and easy recipe that is perfect for Meatless Mondays. With just five ingredients, including mushrooms and spinach, this dish is both budget-friendly and healthy.
The addition of cream cheese adds a creamy texture, but can be replaced with olive oil for a lighter option. The mushrooms add depth to the dish, making it satisfying even without meat. Overall, this recipe is a delicious and nutritious option for a meatless pasta meal.
6. Vegan Spaghetti
Vegan Spaghetti is a flavorful and satisfying meatless pasta recipe. Made with diced tempeh and a combination of tomatoes, herbs, and vegetables, this dish offers a delicious alternative to traditional spaghetti.
The sauce is thick and packed with flavor, while the addition of green pepper and zucchini adds texture and a dose of veggies. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or simply looking for a tasty plant-based option, this homemade vegan spaghetti is a crowd-pleasing dish that will leave you feeling satisfied.
7. Meatless Baked Spaghetti
Meatless Baked Spaghetti is a delicious and easy vegetarian pasta dish that kids will love. It is packed with vegetarian protein sources and can be prepared quickly.
The spaghetti is mixed with whisked eggs, Parmesan cheese, garlic, oregano, and parsley, then topped with cottage cheese, marinara sauce, and mozzarella cheese. Baked until set and golden brown, this dish is a satisfying and flavorful meatless option for pasta lovers.
8. Meatless Baked Ziti
Meatless Baked Ziti is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-inspired pasta dish. Made with ziti noodles, marinara sauce, diced tomatoes, cream cheese, and mozzarella cheese, this recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
The combination of flavors and gooey melted cheese make it a satisfying and comforting meal option. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a meatless pasta recipe, this Meatless Baked Ziti is a must-try.
9. One Pot Creamy Pasta Primavera
One Pot Creamy Pasta Primavera is a delightful meatless pasta dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. This recipe features a creamy herb sauce that coats fresh seasonal vegetables and pasta, creating a light and flavorful meal.
It's a versatile dish that can be customized with various pasta shapes and vegetables, making it perfect for using up what you have on hand. Whether enjoyed as a quick weeknight dinner or a speedy weekend lunch, this pasta primavera is a satisfying and easy-to-make option for those looking for a meatless meal.
10. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta
The Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a quick and easy meatless pasta recipe that is perfect for any occasion. Made with farfalle noodles, roasted red peppers, onions, garlic, vegetable broth, and heavy cream, this dish is bursting with flavor.
The creamy sauce combines perfectly with the al dente pasta, creating a satisfying and delicious meal. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a meatless option, this Roasted Red Pepper Pasta is a must-try recipe.
11. Farfalle Pasta
Creamy Farfalle Pasta with Spinach, Mushrooms, and Caramelized Onions is a delicious and comforting meatless Italian dinner. The bow-tie shaped pasta is perfectly paired with a rich and buttery Parmesan sauce.
Packed with veggies like spinach and caramelized onions, this recipe is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals. It's also a flexible recipe that can be enjoyed as is or with the addition of grilled chicken or seafood. Overall, this Farfalle Pasta recipe is a simple and satisfying option for a weeknight dinner.
12. Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake
Creamy Tomato Pasta Bake is a delicious and satisfying meatless pasta dish. It features tender noodles coated in a creamy tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese.
The recipe is versatile, allowing for the addition of meat or vegetables if desired. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this pasta bake is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults.
13. Dairy-Free White Sauce Veggie Pasta
Dairy-Free White Sauce Veggie Pasta is a delicious and creamy meatless pasta recipe. Packed with veggies like broccoli, carrots, peas, and corn, it has the flavors of a chicken pot pie without the meat.
The white sauce, made with vegan butter and almond milk (or chicken broth), adds a creamy and flavorful touch. Perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
14. One Pot Meatless Pasta
One Pot Meatless Pasta is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner. Filled with simple ingredients like linguini noodles, onion, garlic, fire-roasted tomatoes, basil, lemon juice, and shredded parmesan, this recipe offers a light and delicious sauce.
It can be easily modified to suit different dietary preferences, such as using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Overall, One Pot Meatless Pasta is a great option for those looking for a meatless pasta recipe that is both tasty and filling.
15. One-Pot Pasta
The One-Pot Pasta recipe is a quick and affordable option for those looking for a meatless pasta dish. It features a creamy tomato passata and coconut milk-based sauce, along with a selection of veggies like broccoli, zucchini, and red pepper.
The recipe is easy to make, requiring minimal prep and only one pot. It is ready in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for a last-minute, low-effort meal. Overall, this One-Pot Pasta is a comforting and nourishing option for a budget-friendly weeknight dinner.
16. Vegetarian Bolognese Sauce
Vegetarian Bolognese Sauce is a delicious and satisfying meatless alternative to traditional Bolognese sauce. Made with common mushrooms, sweet onion, red bell pepper, and a variety of seasonings, this sauce is packed with flavor. The addition of walnuts provides a nice texture and healthy fats.
It can be used with your favorite pasta or as a filling for lasagna or Shepherd's pie. This recipe is 100% vegetarian and vegan, making it a great option for those following a plant-based diet. Overall, Vegetarian Bolognese Sauce is a tasty and versatile option for meatless pasta dishes.
17. Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper Hummus Pasta is a quick and easy meatless dish that can be made in under 30 minutes. The creamy and flavorful hummus sauce coats penne pasta, spinach, and cherry tomatoes, creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
It is a versatile recipe that can be customized with different flavors of hummus and vegetables of your choice. Perfect for a dairy-free and vegan option, this pasta is a great choice to please a variety of palates.
18. Vegetarian Baked Ziti
Vegetarian Baked Ziti is a delicious and easy-to-make meatless pasta dish. It features layers of ziti pasta with a homemade tomato sauce and a creamy cheese mixture of ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan. The combination of flavors and textures creates a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal.
This recipe can also be customized by adding cooked vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or peppers. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated in the microwave. Overall, Vegetarian Baked Ziti is a fantastic option for a meatless pasta dish that is both simple and flavorful.
19. Rigatoni with Tomato Parmesan Sauce
Rigatoni with Tomato Parmesan Sauce is a delicious and hearty meatless pasta dish. The creamy tomato sauce, made from scratch with blended Italian tomatoes, is the star of the recipe.
The addition of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a creamy and flavorful touch. This dish is perfect for those looking for a flavorful meatless option and can be enjoyed by both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.
20. Cheesy No Boil Spaghetti Bake
The Cheesy No Boil Spaghetti Bake is a simple and delicious meatless pasta recipe that requires no boiling of the pasta beforehand.
With just a few basic ingredients like spaghetti noodles, marinara sauce, and shredded cheese, this recipe creates a cheesy and flavorful baked spaghetti dish. It's a convenient option for a quick and satisfying meal, especially for those who prefer vegetarian or meatless options.
21. Easy Baked Penne
Easy Baked Penne is a delicious and cheesy pasta casserole that is accidentally vegetarian. It is packed with flavor and the secret ingredients of cottage cheese and sour cream make it incredibly creamy.
This recipe is perfect for potlucks or family dinners, and it can be served with a side of meat for added protein. The combination of pasta, pasta sauce, garlic, and mozzarella cheese creates a satisfying and hearty dish that will leave you wanting more.
22. Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta with Caramelized Onions
Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta with Caramelized Onions is a versatile and flavorful meatless pasta dish. The combination of caramelized onions, mushrooms, spinach, and Parmesan cream sauce creates a rich and satisfying meal.
It can be enjoyed as a standalone dish or paired with grilled meats for a delicious side. This recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers looking for a meatless option.
23. Quick Veggie Pasta
Quick Veggie Pasta is a versatile and flexible recipe that allows you to use any type of pasta and vegetables you have on hand. It is a fast, easy, and satisfying meal that requires minimal effort.
The recipe provides options for both meat and vegan variations, making it suitable for different dietary preferences. With its simple and customizable nature, Quick Veggie Pasta is a go-to option for a quick and delicious meatless pasta dish.
24. Pasta al Forno with Smoked Mozzarella
Pasta al Forno with Smoked Mozzarella is a delicious and comforting meatless pasta dish. It features al dente rigatoni layered with smoked and regular mozzarella cheeses, fresh Parmesan, and tomato sauce.
The dish is baked in the oven until the cheese is melty and crusty on top. It's a perfect option for a special meal or when you want to impress guests.
25. Baked Ziti
Baked Ziti is a delicious and easy meatless pasta recipe. With only four ingredients – ziti noodles, pasta sauce, shredded mozzarella cheese, and ricotta cheese – it's a quick and convenient weeknight meal option. The ziti noodles are cooked and mixed with a combination of mozzarella and ricotta cheese, as well as pasta sauce, before being baked in the oven.
The result is a cheesy and flavorful dish that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Perfectly paired with a salad and fresh bread, Baked Ziti is a satisfying and fuss-free option for pasta lovers looking for a meatless meal.
26. Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach
Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a delicious and flavorful meatless pasta recipe. Packed with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, it's a quick and easy meal that can be ready in less than 20 minutes. The combination of sautéed tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil creates a juicy and garlicky sauce that perfectly coats the pasta.
With the addition of grated parmesan cheese, this dish is both filling and satisfying. Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking for a meatless option, Pasta with Tomatoes and Spinach is a must-try recipe.
27. Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta
Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta is a quick and easy meatless recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavors. The sauce is made from scratch using basic pantry staples, and it can be prepared in less than 20 minutes.
This vegetarian dish is loved by both kids and adults, and it can easily be customized by adding grilled chicken or other proteins. The recipe serves a crowd and leftovers can be enjoyed for lunches throughout the week. Overall, Creamy Tomato and Basil Pasta is a crowd-pleasing option for a delicious meatless pasta dish.
28. One-Pot Cheesy Vegetarian Chili Mac 'n Cheese
The One-Pot Cheesy Vegetarian Chili Mac 'n Cheese is a super cheesy and comforting meatless pasta recipe. It is packed with fresh veggies, beans, tomatoes, and tender pasta, making it a hearty and delicious meal.
The recipe is quick and easy to make, ready in just 30 minutes. It is a perfect option for a cozy weeknight dinner with the family.
29. Spinach and Ricotta Pasta
Spinach and Ricotta Pasta is a creamy and flavorful meatless pasta dish made with Pasta Lensi Yellow Lentil Penne Rigati. It combines fresh spinach, ricotta cheese, garlic, butter, nutmeg, and Parmesan cheese for a delicious and satisfying meal. The pasta is rich in plant-based protein and has a subtle flavor that complements the other ingredients well.
This recipe is quick and easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner. It can be served as a side dish or a complete meal, and you can also add grilled chicken or salmon for additional protein. Overall, Spinach and Ricotta Pasta is a tasty and nutritious option for those looking for a meatless pasta recipe.
30. Bow Tie Pasta
Bow Tie Pasta is a quick and easy vegetarian meal that can be prepared in just 20 minutes. This recipe combines farfalle pasta with broccoli, peas, lemon, and garlic for a fresh and light dish.
Optional grated parmesan adds richness, while the addition of parsley adds a burst of freshness. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this meatless pasta is a budget-friendly option that doesn't compromise on taste.
31. Veggie Pasta Bake
Veggie Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting vegetarian pasta casserole. Packed with a variety of veggies and cheese, it's perfect for crowds and can be easily frozen and reheated.
This versatile dish is a great option for meal prep and is a hit with both kids and adults. With its creamy and cheesy goodness, it's a must-try for any pasta lover looking for a meatless option.
32. Creamy Penne Pasta
Creamy Penne Pasta is a delicious meatless pasta recipe that is quick, easy, and budget-friendly. The creamy sauce is made with garlic, cream cheese, parmesan, and a hint of lemon for a fresh and tangy flavor.
The combination of ingredients creates a silky and satisfying sauce that pairs perfectly with penne pasta. This recipe is versatile and can be customized with add-ins like spinach pesto or grilled chicken. Overall, Creamy Penne Pasta is a must-try for a comforting and flavorful meatless meal.
33. Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce
Linguine with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce is a delicious and satisfying meatless pasta dish. The creamy alfredo sauce, made with garlic and Parmesan cheese, coats the linguine perfectly.
The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and spinach adds a burst of flavor and color. This easy-to-make recipe takes just 30 minutes and requires only 9 ingredients. It's a great option for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner.
34. Pasta Pomodoro
Pasta Pomodoro is a classic meatless pasta dish made with tomatoes, olive oil, onions, and garlic. It is a simple and flavorful recipe that can be prepared in under 20 minutes.
The combination of tomato sauce, basil, and pasta makes it a family favorite. The dish is versatile and can be made with different types of rod-shaped pasta. Overall, Pasta Pomodoro is a delicious and quick meatless option for pasta lovers.
35. Sun-Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta
Sun-Dried Tomato and Mushroom Pasta is a delicious meatless pasta dish that combines the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and mushrooms in a creamy garlic and basil sauce. The recipe is easy to make and uses simple ingredients.
The combination of the savory mushrooms and the tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a flavorful and satisfying dish. Perfect for vegetarians or anyone looking for a tasty meatless option.
36. Capellini Pomodoro
Capellini Pomodoro is a delightful meatless pasta dish that features thin angel hair pasta coated in a luscious pomodoro sauce made from fresh cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil.
The addition of lemon juice adds a refreshing zing to this light and zesty Italian recipe. With no meat or dairy, it is a perfect option for a quick and easy weeknight dinner.
