21 Easy Pasta Recipes to Satisfy Your Cravings

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Pasta is a versatile and comforting dish that can be prepared in countless ways. Here are 21 easy pasta recipes to add to your weeknight dinner rotation or weekend indulgences. Let’s start with the first 10:

1. Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

This creamy, indulgent pasta dish is a Roman favorite that comes together in minutes.

Ingredients:

  • 400g spaghetti
  • 150g pancetta or guanciale, diced
  • 4 large eggs
  • 100g grated Pecorino Romano cheese
  • 50g grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Method:

  1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water according to package instructions.
  2. In a large pan, sauté pancetta and garlic in olive oil until crispy.
  3. In a bowl, whisk eggs, Pecorino, and Parmesan.
  4. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  5. Toss hot pasta with pancetta, then quickly mix in the egg mixture, adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
  6. Season with black pepper and serve immediately.

2. Penne Arrabbiata

A fiery, quick pasta dish that packs a punch with its spicy tomato sauce.

Ingredients:

  • 400g penne pasta
  • 400g canned crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Method:

  1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add chili flakes and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
  5. Drain pasta and toss with the sauce.
  6. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

3. Lemon Garlic Shrimp Linguine

A light and zesty pasta dish perfect for warm evenings or when you’re craving seafood.

Ingredients:

  • 400g linguine
  • 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

Method:

  1. Cook linguine in salted water until al dente.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink.
  3. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cook for 1 minute.
  4. Stir in lemon zest, juice, and parsley.
  5. Toss cooked pasta with the shrimp mixture.
  6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

4. Creamy Mushroom Fettuccine

A rich and comforting vegetarian pasta dish that’s perfect for mushroom lovers.

Ingredients:

  • 400g fettuccine
  • 500g mixed mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh thyme leaves for garnish

Method:

  1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and butter, then sauté mushrooms until golden.
  3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Pour in cream and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
  6. Toss cooked pasta with the mushroom sauce, garnish with thyme, and serve.

5. Tomato Basil Penne

A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that celebrates the classic combination of tomatoes and basil.

Ingredients:

  • 400g penne pasta
  • 800g ripe tomatoes, diced
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Method:

  1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add diced tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes.
  4. Drain pasta and toss with the tomato sauce.
  5. Stir in fresh basil leaves.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, and serve with grated Parmesan.

6. Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

A comforting baked pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

  • 250g jumbo pasta shells
  • 450g ricotta cheese
  • 300g frozen spinach, thawed and drained
  • 1 egg
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions, then drain and cool.
  2. Mix ricotta, spinach, egg, 1/2 cup Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  3. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture.
  4. Spread 1 cup marinara sauce in a baking dish, arrange stuffed shells on top.
  5. Pour remaining sauce over shells and sprinkle with mozzarella and remaining Parmesan.
  6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

7. Lemon Asparagus Pasta

A bright and fresh pasta dish that’s perfect for spring but delicious year-round.

Ingredients:

  • 400g spaghetti or linguine
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional)

Method:

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water, adding asparagus in the last 3 minutes of cooking.
  2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon zest, juice, olive oil, and Parmesan.
  4. Toss hot pasta and asparagus with the lemon mixture, adding pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
  5. Stir in parsley and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts before serving, if using.

8. One-Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

A spicy and satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients:

  • 400g fettuccine
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Method:

  1. Season chicken with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil and cook chicken until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened.
  4. Add uncooked pasta, remaining Cajun seasoning, chicken broth, and cream. Bring to a boil.
  5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until pasta is cooked and sauce is thickened.
  6. Stir in chicken and Parmesan cheese. Garnish with parsley before serving.

9. Pesto Pasta Salad

A refreshing cold pasta dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or hot summer days.

Ingredients:

  • 400g fusilli or rotini pasta
  • 1 cup basil pesto
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cup mozzarella pearls
  • 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, toss cooled pasta with pesto and olive oil.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes, mozzarella pearls, and pine nuts.
  4. Gently mix in fresh basil.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  6. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow flavors to meld.

10. Garlic Parmesan Spaghetti

A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect when you need a quick and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 400g spaghetti
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp butter

Method:

  1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente.
  2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
  3. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  4. Add pasta to the pan with garlic oil, tossing to coat.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, butter, and pasta water as needed to create a light sauce.
  6. Add parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss well and serve immediately.

11. Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Brown Butter

A delightful autumn-inspired pasta dish that combines sweet and savory flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 500g butternut squash ravioli (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
  • 20 fresh sage leaves
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts

Method:

  1. Cook ravioli in salted boiling water according to package instructions.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat until it starts to brown and smells nutty.
  3. Add sage leaves and cook until crisp, about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Drain ravioli and add to the skillet, tossing gently to coat with brown butter.
  5. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
  6. Garnish with toasted pine nuts and serve immediately.

12. Mediterranean Orzo Salad

A refreshing and colorful pasta salad perfect for warm days or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

  • 300g orzo pasta
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 100g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 red onion, finely diced
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook orzo according to package instructions, then drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooled orzo with cucumber, tomatoes, bell pepper, feta, onion, olives, and parsley.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  5. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.
  6. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

13. Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta

A spicy and indulgent pasta dish that’s sure to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 400g fettuccine
  • 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt to taste

Method:

  1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
  2. Toss shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook shrimp until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté garlic until fragrant.
  5. Add cream and Parmesan, simmer until slightly thickened.
  6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce, add shrimp, and garnish with parsley before serving.

14. Vegetable Primavera

A light and colorful pasta dish packed with fresh vegetables.

Ingredients:

  • 400g penne pasta
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, zucchini)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup vegetable broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lemon wedges for serving

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  2. Steam mixed vegetables until tender-crisp.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  4. Add steamed vegetables and vegetable broth, simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Toss cooked pasta with the vegetable mixture and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with basil, and serve with lemon wedges.

15. Baked Ziti

A comforting baked pasta dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.

Ingredients:

  • 500g ziti pasta
  • 700g marinara sauce
  • 450g ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 eggs
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook ziti according to package instructions, drain.
  2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup mozzarella, Parmesan, eggs, parsley, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large baking dish, layer half the pasta, half the ricotta mixture, and half the marinara sauce.
  4. Repeat layers, ending with marinara sauce.
  5. Top with remaining mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.

16. Lemon Ricotta Pasta

A creamy and refreshing pasta dish that’s perfect for spring or summer.

Ingredients:

  • 400g spaghetti
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • Zest and juice of 2 lemons
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method:

  1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together ricotta, lemon zest, lemon juice, Parmesan, and olive oil.
  3. Drain pasta, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  4. Toss hot pasta with the ricotta mixture, adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce.
  5. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

17. One-Pot Taco Pasta

A fun fusion dish that combines the flavors of tacos with the comfort of pasta.

Ingredients:

  • 400g rotini pasta
  • 500g ground beef
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup corn kernels
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • Chopped cilantro and sour cream for garnish

Method:

  1. In a large pot, brown ground beef and drain excess fat.
  2. Add taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, black beans, corn, and beef broth.
  3. Bring to a boil, then add uncooked pasta.
  4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until pasta is cooked.
  5. Stir in shredded cheese until melted.
  6. Serve garnished with cilantro and a dollop of sour cream.

18. Roasted Red Pepper Pasta

A creamy and flavorful vegetarian pasta dish with a vibrant color.

Ingredients:

  • 400g penne pasta
  • 2 large red bell peppers
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method:

  1. Roast bell peppers under the broiler until charred. Let cool, then peel and seed.
  2. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
  3. In a blender, puree roasted peppers with olive oil and garlic.
  4. Transfer puree to a large skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in cream and Parmesan cheese until heated through.
  6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce, add basil, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

19. Chicken Alfredo Pasta

A classic creamy pasta dish that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 400g fettuccine
  • 500g boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Method:

  1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook chicken until browned and cooked through.
  3. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
  4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
  5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and butter until melted and sauce is smooth.
  6. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and chicken, garnish with parsley before serving.

20. Greek Pasta Salad

A Mediterranean-inspired pasta salad that’s perfect for picnics or as a side dish.

Ingredients:

  • 400g rotini pasta
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 200g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 200g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup kalamata olives, sliced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

  1. Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. In a large bowl, combine cooled pasta with cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, feta, olives, and dill.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
  5. Chill for at least 1 hour before serving.
  6. Adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

21. Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

A quick and luxurious pasta dish that’s perfect for a special dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 400g linguine
  • 500g large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup white wine
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Method:

  1. Cook linguine according to package instructions.
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant.
  3. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Pour in white wine and lemon juice, simmer for 2 minutes.
  5. Toss cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce.
  6. Stir in parsley, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired before serving.

This completes your collection of 21 easy pasta recipes. Each recipe offers a unique flavor profile and can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary preferences. Enjoy exploring these delicious pasta dishes!

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