30 Easy Pasta Recipes for Weeknight Dinners

Looking for a delicious pasta dish? Whether it’s a classic lasagna or baked ziti, these easy pasta recipes have got you covered. Pasta is truly Italy’s gift to the world, and the ways you can use it are endless. Get ready to explore a world of flavor with these creative and tasty recipes!

1.Garlic and Lemon Pasta

Lemon and garlic? That’s all you need to know–this pasta is about to steal the spotlight! It’s rich, creamy, and loaded with that perfect balance of tangy lemon and savory garlic.

Trust us, this one’s a crowd-pleaser!

2.Pasta Primavera

Pasta primavera is a vibrant and fresh pasta dish that’s as colorful as it is delicious.

This hearty yet light meal combines the best of pasta and veggies for a dish that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The beauty of primavera?

You can toss in any veggies you’ve got on hand–sliced, diced, or whatever you like. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a customizable, veggie-packed meal that’s easy to make and fun to eat!

3.Old Fashioned Hamburger Casserole

Who would’ve thought cheeseburgers and lasagna could team up to create something so epic? Meet the ultimate culinary mash-up: a classic hamburger casserole that’s pure perfection.

Packed with layers of egg noodles, rich tomato sauce, and plenty of cheese (because everything’s better with cheese!), this dish is a total showstopper.

Whether you’re in the mood for something hearty or just crave comfort food, this casserole delivers. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to hit the spot every time!

4.Butternut Squash Pasta

Looking for a fall-inspired pasta dish that’s quick and delicious? This butternut squash pasta checks all the boxes! Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s packed with cozy autumn flavors you’ll love.

The sweet and savory combo might surprise you at first, but trust us, it works. With garlic, thyme, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a hint of brown sugar, this dish is a delightful mix of flavors.

Perfect for a chilly fall evening, it’s a must-try for anyone craving something warm and comforting.

5.Bacon and Mushroom Carbonara

Looking for a quick and flavorful pasta dinner? This bacon and mushroom carbonara is ready in just 20 minutes! It’s packed with rich, creamy goodness that’s anything but basic.

With smoky bacon, earthy mushrooms, sharp parmesan, fresh chives, and a hint of garlic, this dish is a perfect blend of flavors. It’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a weeknight favorite!

6.5-Ingredient Spinach Parmesan Pasta

Five ingredients? Sounds too good to be true, but trust us, it’s a game-changer. Toss your favorite pasta in a rich, savory butter garlic sauce, add some fresh spinach leaves, and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.

This simple yet stunning dish is sure to satisfy the whole family–even the pickiest eaters will ask for seconds. It’s easy, delicious, and ready to become your new go-to meal.

7.Hamburger Helper Skillet Lasagna

Hamburger Helper casserole is pure comfort food that brings back memories. It’s like a warm hug in a dish, reminding you of simpler times. But what if you want to make it from scratch?

This copycat Hamburger Helper recipe delivers all the flavor you love, but it’s 100% homemade. It’s the same comforting taste you remember, just made with love from your kitchen. Why not give it a try?

8.Gigi Hadid Spicy Vodka Pasta

Looking for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner that’s easy to make? Gigi Hadid’s spicy vodka pasta is here to save the day!

This dish is a breeze to make and packs a punch of flavor. It’s spicy, satisfying, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table.

Once you serve it up, get ready for everyone to ask for seconds!

9.Rigatoni Pasta Bake

Baked rigatoni has been a go-to meal since I was a kid, and for good reason–it’s hearty, cheesy, and way less messy than lasagna or spaghetti.

As an adult, I still can’t get enough of it. Packed with bold Italian flavors and loaded with garlic (my personal favorite!), this dish hits all the right notes. The best part?

It’s super easy to make! With fewer than ten ingredients and just ten minutes of prep time, this crowd-pleaser is ready to become a weeknight staple in your kitchen too.

10.Unstuffed Shells Casserole

Why go through the hassle of stuffing shells when you can coat them all with dressing and be done? It’s just as delicious but way easier.

Imagine a rich, beefy, creamy, and cheesy sauce smothering every shell–no stuffing required! It’s like enjoying stuffed shells without any of the extra work. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that’s full of flavor.

11.Creamy Beef Pasta

This creamy beef pasta is an absolute winner, no matter the time of day. Just look at those noodles – they’re smothered in a rich, velvety sauce that’s hard to resist.

It’s hearty, creamy, cheesy, and packed with meaty flavor, making it the ultimate comfort food. Every bite is a perfect blend of textures and tastes that will keep you coming back for more.

It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and leaves you feeling completely satisfied.

12.Baked Ziti

Here’s another beloved classic. Ziti shells doused with sweet and savory spaghetti sauce, ground beef, onions, and three kinds of cheese. That’s Italian comfort food at its finest right there.

Baked ziti is such a delectable treat, but shockingly, a breeze to make. Oh, and it can easily feed a crowd, too… Unless the crowd includes me, that is. I frequently come back for more.

13.Bruschetta Chicken Pasta

Bruschetta Chicken Pasta brings together the bold flavors of your favorite appetizer with a hearty, satisfying dinner.

Juicy chicken, fresh tomatoes, and tender angel hair pasta come together, loaded with herbs and spices for a dish that’s full of flavor.

Serve it with crusty garlic bread on the side for that authentic bruschetta touch. For the best taste, don’t forget to marinate the chicken for at least 15 to 20 minutes before cooking.

14.Grilled Vegetable Orzo Pasta Salad

This pasta salad is a delicious twist on summer vibes, loaded with grilled cherry tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and zucchini.

Orzo–a tiny pasta that looks like rice–adds a fun textural element, while a simple red wine vinegar dressing brings everything together with a bright, tangy flavor.

Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this salad is as tasty as it is refreshing!

15.Quick Broccoli Pasta

Broccoli in pasta? Don’t let the kids fret–they’ll be hooked after the first bite! This creamy, cheesy pasta dish is brightened up with a zesty lemon touch.

The broccoli adds a burst of fresh flavor and a satisfying crunch that makes every bite a delight. It’s a kid-friendly recipe that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.

Trust us, this one’s a 12/10–give it a try and see why!

16.Applebee’s Three Cheese Penne

Imagine a dish that sounds as good as it tastes–this creamy penne pasta is exactly that.

A rich, cheesy white sauce coats every piece of firm, al dente pasta, creating a base that’s nothing short of ridiculously delicious.

But here’s where it gets even better: tender, well-seasoned chicken and juicy tomatoes sit on top, adding fresh, vibrant flavors to the mix.

The contrast between the creamy pasta and the bright, savory toppings is pure magic. And the best part? It tastes just like the famous Applebee’s dish, but without the hefty price tag.

Now you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavor right in your own kitchen, and your wallet will thank you!

17.Rotel Chicken Spaghetti Casserole

This Rotel chicken spaghetti is the ultimate comfort food you never knew you needed. Once you make it, get ready to crave it over and over again! The best part?

It only requires eight ingredients and is incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for adding to your weekly meal lineup, this dish is about to become your new go-to!

18.Barilla Lasagna

Classic lasagna just got a whole lot simpler. You still get all the rich flavors you love–al dente pasta, hearty meat sauce, and a blend of creamy cheeses–but now, it’s easier than ever to make.

The secret? Using store-bought marinara sauce. With this shortcut, there’s no need to simmer the tomato meat sauce for hours. Just five minutes is all it takes.

Perfect for a quick, delicious meal that tastes like it took all day.

19.Angel Hair Pasta with Garlic and Herbs

Hey there, pasta lovers! This dish might look simple, but trust us, it’s anything but basic.

Imagine delicate angel hair pasta bathed in a rich butter garlic sauce, sprinkled with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan for good measure. The combination is pure magic–light, luscious, and full of flavor.

You’ll love how the thin strands of pasta soak up that creamy, aromatic sauce, creating a dish that’s both elegant and cozy. Perfect for a quick yet satisfying meal that feels like a special treat.

Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a cozy night in, this pasta dish is sure to hit the spot!

20.One-Pot Pizza Pasta Bake

Imagine a dish that brings together the best of pizza and pasta in one flavor-packed casserole. This mouthwatering creation is sure to win hearts!

With al dente noodles, smoky Italian sausage, hearty pepperoni, rich tomato sauce loaded with herbs and spices, and a layer of melted mozzarella cheese, it’s a recipe that’s hard to resist.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just your family, this casserole is the ultimate comfort food that will leave everyone wanting more.

21.Spaghetti Puttanesca

Don’t let the name fool you–Spaghetti Puttanesca is a dish that’s as vibrant as it is flavorful. This classic Italian recipe is bursting with color, aroma, and taste.

Here’s the magic: spaghetti tossed in a rich sauce made with garlic, olives, anchovies, and capers. It all comes together in a perfect balance of salty, tangy, and savory.

Every bite is a feast for the senses!

22.One-Pot Chicken Parm Pasta

Chicken parmesan is a timeless favorite, and for good reason–chicken and parmesan are a match made in heaven. The only downside? It can be a bit of a hassle to make.

But not with this recipe! This one-pot chicken parmesan pasta brings all the flavors and textures you love about the classic dish, but it’s way easier to throw together.

Juicy chicken, rich parmesan, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a single pot for a meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd!

23.Red Lobster Shrimp Scampi

Ah, Red Lobster–where the magic happens with those irresistible Cheddar Bay Biscuits and succulent shrimp scampi. Sure, the menu has plenty to offer, but let’s be honest, those two are the real showstoppers.

The good news? You don’t need to leave home (or your wallet) to enjoy them. This recipe spills all the secrets to making both favorites right in your kitchen, and the best part?

It’s easier and more budget-friendly than you’d think. Ready to taste the magic without the restaurant prices? Let’s dive in!

24.Easy Taco Spaghetti

Who says you can’t have your taco salad in pasta form? This recipe brings the bold flavors of a taco salad to a pasta dish, blending the best of both worlds.

Imagine saucy taco meat, crisp green peppers, and all that taco seasoning goodness coming together in a flavorful twist. Instead of soggy tortilla chips, you get tender spaghetti noodles soaking up all the delicious flavors.

It’s the perfect combination that’s easy to make and fun to eat, turning a classic into something new and exciting.

25.Greek Pasta Salad

Greek pasta salad is where two delicious worlds collide–Greek and Italian cuisine come together in perfect harmony.

This salad is a vibrant mix of pasta, crisp veggies, tangy cheese, and a luscious, creamy dressing that ties it all together.

Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a backyard BBQ, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. It’s also a potluck superstar, ready to impress in no time.

Simple, satisfying, and full of flavor, this Greek pasta salad is a must-make for any occasion.

26.Ina Garten’s Real Meatballs and Spaghetti

Looking for a quick and easy dinner that’s sure to hit the spot? This spaghetti and meatballs recipe is your answer!

Sometimes, the classics are the best, and this dish delivers with tender spaghetti, rich homemade sauce, and big, juicy meatballs on top. It’s a simple, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and always a hit!

27.Easy One-Pot American Goulash

This American goulash is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with elbow macaroni, ground beef, and rich tomato sauce. It’s the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug.

Plus, it’s budget-friendly and a breeze to make in just one pot.

Let the flavors meld together in under an hour, and you’ll have a hearty, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a crowd-pleaser for any meal.

28.Grandmas Macaroni Salad

Grandma’s macaroni salad is the real deal–it’s creamy, dreamy, and totally irresistible. This isn’t just a side dish; it’s the kind of recipe that steals the show.

Perfectly cooked pasta gets coated in a super creamy sauce that’s just right–not too heavy, not too light. Serve it chilled, and you’ve got the ultimate summer side dish.

But let’s be honest, it’s so good you’ll want to enjoy it any time of the year. It’s comfort food at its finest!

29.Fettuccine Alfredo

Here’s a recipe every parent should know by heart: a classic fettuccine alfredo that’s pure comfort in a bowl.

With just a few simple ingredients–butter, cream, and cheese–you can create a dish that feels like a special treat. This sauce is rich, creamy, and indulgent, yet surprisingly easy to make.

It’s the perfect way to satisfy any comfort food craving without any fuss. Trust us, this one is a keeper for busy days and picky eaters alike!