Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen after a long day at work? We all crave a delicious and satisfying meal, but sometimes the thought of cooking can be daunting. That's where weeknight pasta recipes come to the rescue! Quick, easy, and oh-so-tasty, these recipes are perfect for those busy evenings when time is of the essence.
Whether you're a meat lover, a vegetarian, or someone who enjoys a little bit of everything, we've got you covered. So grab your apron and let's dive into some mouthwatering pasta dishes that will have you saying goodbye to takeout forever!
1. Kitchen Sink Pasta
Kitchen Sink Pasta is a simple and foolproof weeknight pasta recipe. It starts with pantry staples like dry pasta and jarred pasta sauce. The recipe allows for customization by adding various ingredients such as veggies and ground meat.
It is a versatile and easy-to-make dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. Perfect for using up leftover ingredients and creating a delicious meal.
2. Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake
Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake is a quick and simple recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights. It can be made ahead of time and even frozen for later use.
The combination of penne pasta, ground beef or turkey, and a flavorful tomato sauce is topped with a creamy mixture of ricotta and Parmesan cheese, and finished off with melted mozzarella. This kid-friendly dish is sure to please the whole family.
3. Ziti with Chipotle Lentil Tomato Sauce
Ziti with Chipotle Lentil Tomato Sauce is a flavorful and filling weeknight pasta dish. The smoky chipotle and lentils in the sauce add a delicious depth of flavor. It's a vegan and soy-free recipe that can easily be made gluten-free with GF pasta.
The dish can be customized with seasonal veggies like garlic roasted asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. Overall, it's a quick and easy pasta recipe that is perfect for busy weeknights.
4. Weeknight Pasta Sauce
The Weeknight Pasta Sauce is a simple yet flavorful recipe that requires minimal effort. Made with ground beef, crushed tomatoes, onion, butter, and seasonings, this sauce delivers a rich and hearty taste.
The key to its deliciousness lies in the 30-minute simmer, which helps to mellow the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the natural sweetness. The addition of butter adds a creamy texture and balances the flavors perfectly. Whether served over pasta or roasted vegetables, this sauce is a winner for busy weeknight dinners.
5. Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken
Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken is a simple and delicious weeknight pasta dish. It combines grilled chicken, grape tomatoes, penne pasta, chicken broth, mozzarella cheese, basil, garlic, and salt.
The dish is baked in the oven for 40 minutes, topped with cheese, and then baked for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted. It's a quick and easy meal that the whole family will enjoy.
6. Pasta with Grape Tomatoes
Pasta with Grape Tomatoes is a quick and easy weeknight dinner option that is both delicious and satisfying. The recipe calls for sautéing sliced tomatoes in olive oil with garlic and red pepper flakes, then tossing the mixture with cooked pasta and fresh basil.
It's a versatile dish that can be made with any type of pasta and is sure to please your taste buds after a long day at work.
7. Sweet Tomato & Broccoli Rabe Baked Penne
Sweet Tomato & Broccoli Rabe Baked Penne is a delicious weeknight pasta recipe that is gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-free. It is packed with flavor and nutritious veggies, making it a healthy and satisfying meal for the whole family.
The sweet tomato sauce is full of herbs and spices, and the addition of broccoli rabe adds a delicious twist. Overall, this recipe is a great option for a quick and easy dinner that everyone will love.
8. Tortellini with Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach Alfredo
Tortellini with Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach Alfredo is a creamy and tangy pasta dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. The cheese tortellini is smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce, enhanced with the flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and chopped spinach.
It's a quick and easy recipe that can be made even more delicious by adding chopped rotisserie chicken. Serve it with a side salad and crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
9. Creamy Pasta Primavera
Creamy Pasta Primavera is a quick and easy weeknight pasta recipe that celebrates the flavors of spring. It features a tangy, light sauce, colorful veggies, and is ready in just 20 minutes.
The secret ingredient is Greek yogurt, which adds a creamy texture without weighing down the dish. This recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or paired with grilled chicken or shrimp. It's a delicious way to incorporate fresh seasonal vegetables into your meal.
10. Easy One-Pot Pasta
The Easy One-Pot Pasta recipe is a quick and convenient weeknight dinner option. It combines uncooked pasta, veggies, and sauce in one pot, resulting in a flavorful and satisfying meal.
The recipe is versatile, allowing for both gluten-free and gluten-full pasta options. Shorter pasta shapes are recommended for better cooking results. Overall, this fuss-free recipe is a delicious and time-saving choice for busy evenings.
11. Baked Feta Pasta
Baked Feta Pasta is a simple and flavorful weeknight pasta recipe. It features ripe cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and a block of feta cheese baked together until the tomatoes burst and the cheese melts. The dish is then mixed with cooked pasta and fresh basil leaves.
It's a versatile recipe that allows for customization with additional ingredients like olives, capers, or cooked protein. The recipe can be made in a slow cooker or oven, and it's best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. Overall, Baked Feta Pasta is a delicious and easy option for a quick and satisfying dinner.
12. Tomato Zucchini Summer Pasta
Tomato Zucchini Summer Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight meal that celebrates the best of summer produce. With just ten ingredients and less than thirty minutes of cooking time, this pasta dish is simple yet full of flavor. The zucchini is browned in ghee, giving it a delicious crust and enhancing its natural taste. The sauce, made with cherry tomatoes, pasta water, and fresh basil, adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
This pasta is easily adaptable to different types of noodles and can be paired with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein. The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle warmth without overpowering the flavors. Overall, Tomato Zucchini Summer Pasta is a delicious and satisfying option for a quick weeknight meal.
13. Lemony Rigatoni Pasta with Kale and Shallots
Lemony Rigatoni Pasta with Kale and Shallots is a delicious and light weeknight pasta recipe. It features rigatoni pasta cooked to perfection, sautéed shallots and kale, and a tangy lemon dressing.
Topped with toasted pine nuts and grated Parmesan, this pasta dish is simple, fresh, and satisfying. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner any night of the week.
14. Basil Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and Mushrooms
Basil Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and Mushrooms is an easy and flavorful weeknight pasta dish. Tender pasta is tossed with sautéed mushrooms, fresh broccoli, and a delicious basil pesto sauce.
It's a simple recipe that can be made in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings. The combination of the pesto, mushrooms, and broccoli creates a satisfying and tasty meal.
15. Pasta Carbonara
Pasta Carbonara is a simple and versatile weeknight meal made with basic ingredients like pasta, bacon, eggs, and parmesan cheese. It can be customized with additional veggies or substituted with vegetarian options.
This recipe is quick, taking only 15 minutes to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce and flavorful bacon make it a satisfying and delicious choice for pasta lovers.
16. Creamy Tomato Pasta with Coconut Milk
Creamy Tomato Pasta with Coconut Milk is a quick and easy weeknight pasta recipe that requires only four main ingredients. The combination of coconut milk and sun-dried tomatoes creates a subtly sweet and creamy sauce, balanced by the flavors of garlic and salt.
This recipe is dairy-free and can be made gluten-free by using a GF pasta. It's a delicious option for a fast and satisfying dinner.
17. Quick and Easy Chicken Pasta
The Quick and Easy Chicken Pasta recipe is a cheesy and delicious weeknight meal that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. It features chicken and pasta cooked in a garlic tomato sauce and topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The recipe is perfect for those looking for a quick and satisfying dinner option, and it's a hit with kids because it doesn't include any vegetables.
The trick to saving time is to start boiling the pasta while sautéing the chicken, and then combining everything together with the sauce and cheese. Overall, this recipe is a great choice for busy weeknights when you want a tasty and hassle-free pasta dish.
18. Roasted Tomato and Bell Pepper Pasta
Roasted Tomato and Bell Pepper Pasta is a delicious and easy weeknight meal. The roasted tomatoes and bell peppers create a flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the heavy cream. The addition of red chili flakes adds a nice kick of spice.
This pasta dish can be customized with your choice of protein and any type of pasta. Reheating leftovers is a breeze with a little water or cream to prevent the pasta from drying out. Overall, this recipe is a winner for a quick and satisfying dinner.
19. Lemon Swiss Chard Pasta
Lemon Swiss Chard Pasta is a quick and flavorful weeknight pasta recipe. It combines linguine noodles with sautéed Swiss chard, garlic, and onions, all tossed in a tangy sauce made from green olives, capers, and fresh lemon.
The dish is finished off with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. It's a simple yet delicious pasta that comes together in just 20 minutes. Perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
20. Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying weeknight pasta recipe. It is a healthier version of the popular restaurant dish, loaded with Italian flavors. This recipe uses ingredients like sun-dried tomatoes, chicken breast, whole wheat pasta, and a blend of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt for a creamy texture.
It can be made in the Instant Pot, Crock Pot, or on the stove. Perfect for meal prep, it keeps well in the fridge and reheats easily. Overall, a flavorful and nutritious option for pasta lovers.
21. Weeknight Pasta with Turkey and Spinach
This Weeknight Pasta with Turkey and Spinach recipe is a quick and easy option for busy weeknights. Made with Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey, it's rich in flavor and sure to please the whole family.
The orecchiette pasta holds the sauce and flavors perfectly, and you can customize it with your favorite greens and spices. Overall, a delicious and versatile pasta dish that's worth adding to your dinner rotation.
22. Skillet Broccoli Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta
Skillet Broccoli Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta is a delicious and convenient weeknight meal. This one-skillet recipe combines tender chicken, flavorful broccoli, and al dente bow tie pasta in a creamy Parmesan sauce.
It's a complete meal that's easy to make and requires minimal clean-up. Perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.
23. Cream Cheese Pasta Bake
Cream Cheese Pasta Bake is a simple and flavorful weeknight pasta recipe. It features cherry tomatoes, onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream cheese, all baked together to create a creamy sauce.
The addition of spinach adds freshness to the dish. It can be easily customized with your favorite pasta shape and protein. Overall, it's a delicious and satisfying option for a quick and easy dinner.
24. Lemon Basil Pasta
Lemon Basil Pasta is a light and refreshing weeknight pasta recipe that can be prepared in just 15 minutes. The combination of lemon juice, white wine, and fresh basil creates a summery flavor that is perfect for spring and summer.
Tossed with your favorite pasta and topped with grated parmesan, this dish is a delightful and quick option for a family-friendly dinner.
25. Creamy Beef Pasta
Creamy Beef Pasta is a comforting and flavorful weeknight dinner option. It features a creamy, cheesy tomato sauce with ground beef and rotini pasta. The recipe offers flexibility with ingredient substitutions and additions, making it customizable to personal preferences.
The dish can also be easily frozen for future meals. Overall, Creamy Beef Pasta is a delicious and satisfying choice for pasta lovers seeking a quick and easy meal.
26. One Pot Sausage Pasta
One Pot Sausage Pasta is a fast and delicious weeknight dinner recipe. The creamy tomato mascarpone sauce combined with smoked Polish sausage and Cajun seasoning creates a flavorful dish.
The pasta is cooked right in the sauce, making it convenient and easy to prepare. It's a family favorite and a great option for those looking for a quick and satisfying meal.
27. Weeknight Carbonara
Weeknight Carbonara is a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This vegetarian version skips the bacon but makes up for it with a ton of greens, creating a healthy and flavorful twist on the classic carbonara. The sautéed onions add a savory depth of flavor, while the lemon juice adds a refreshing tang.
Tossed with a creamy sauce made from eggs, parmesan cheese, and pasta cooking water, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes. It's a great way to use up an abundance of greens from your CSA delivery. Overall, Weeknight Carbonara is a fantastic option for a simple and nutritious pasta dinner.
28. Simple Angel Hair Pasta
Simple Angel Hair Pasta is a delicious and easy weeknight pasta recipe that requires only 5 ingredients. It can be enjoyed as a vegetarian dish or paired with your favorite protein. The recipe is quick to prepare, taking only about 22 minutes from start to finish.
The combination of fresh tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil creates a flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the angel hair pasta. The addition of reserved pasta water helps to marry the sauce and pasta together. Overall, Simple Angel Hair Pasta is a fantastic option for a quick and satisfying dinner.
29. Artichoke Pasta
Artichoke Pasta is a delicious and flavorful weeknight pasta recipe. The creamy and zesty lemon artichoke sauce is made with artichoke hearts, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and olive oil. It is vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
The sauce pairs perfectly with spaghettini noodles, but other pasta shapes can also be used. Garnished with basil and onion chives, this pasta dish is a refreshing and satisfying option for a quick and easy dinner.
