Easy Pasta Recipes: Simple & Delicious Ideas

Pasta is a versatile and delicious ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal for one or a delicious dinner to impress your guests, there are plenty of easy pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best simple and delicious pasta recipes that you can make at home.

1. Classic Spaghetti and Meatballs

Spaghetti and meatballs is a classic pasta dish that is loved by many. To make this dish, cook spaghetti according to the package directions and set it aside. Next, mix together ground beef, breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, garlic, and an egg. Form the mixture into meatballs and brown them in a skillet. Once the meatballs are browned, add canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serve the sauce over the spaghetti and top with additional parmesan cheese.

2. Creamy Carbonara

Carbonara is a simple and creamy pasta dish that is easy to make. Cook spaghetti according to the package directions and set it aside. Next, cook diced bacon in a skillet until it’s crispy. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Once the bacon is cooked, add the spaghetti to the skillet and toss it with the bacon. Remove the skillet from the heat and pour the egg mixture over the spaghetti, tossing it to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.

3. Garlic Shrimp Linguine

Garlic shrimp linguine is a quick and easy pasta dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. Cook linguine according to the package directions and set it aside. Next, cook minced garlic in a skillet until it’s fragrant. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until it’s pink. Remove the skillet from the heat and add lemon juice and parsley. Toss the linguine with the shrimp mixture and serve.

4. Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a comforting and hearty pasta dish that is perfect for a family dinner. Cook ziti according to the package directions and set it aside. Next, mix together ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, parmesan cheese, and an egg. Layer the cooked ziti in a baking dish with tomato sauce and the cheese mixture. Bake the ziti in the oven at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

5. Pesto Pasta Salad

Pesto pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that is perfect for a summer picnic or barbecue. Cook fusilli pasta according to the package directions and set it aside. In a blender, blend together fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil until it’s smooth. Toss the pasta with the pesto sauce and add cherry tomatoes and diced mozzarella cheese.

6. Spicy Arrabbiata

Spicy arrabbiata is a simple and flavorful pasta dish that is perfect for those who love a bit of heat. Cook penne pasta according to the package directions and set it aside. In a skillet, cook minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes until the garlic is fragrant. Add canned tomatoes and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. Toss the penne with the spicy tomato sauce and top with fresh basil.

8. One-Pot Chicken Alfredo

One-pot chicken alfredo is a creamy and satisfying pasta dish that is easy to make in just one pot. In a large pot, cook diced chicken until it’s browned. Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside. Add garlic and chicken broth to the pot and let it simmer for a few minutes. Add heavy cream, parmesan cheese, and cooked fettuccine to the pot and stir to combine. Add the cooked chicken back to the pot and let it simmer until the sauce thickens.

9. Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a comforting and flavorful pasta dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Cook egg noodles according to the package directions and set them aside. In a skillet, cook sliced mushrooms and diced onions until they’re tender. Add sliced beef and cook until it’s browned. Add beef broth, sour cream, and dijon mustard to the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles.

10. Caprese Pasta

Caprese pasta is a light and refreshing pasta dish that is perfect for a summer lunch or dinner. Cook fusilli pasta according to the package directions and set it aside. In a bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, chopped basil, and balsamic vinegar. Toss the cooked pasta with the tomato mixture and serve.

11. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto

Zucchini noodles with pesto is a healthy and flavorful pasta dish that is perfect for those who are watching their carbs. Use a spiralizer to make zucchini noodles and set them aside. In a blender, blend together fresh basil, pine nuts, garlic, parmesan cheese, and olive oil until it’s smooth. Toss the zucchini noodles with the pesto sauce and serve.

12. Mushroom and Spinach Fettuccine

Mushroom and spinach fettuccine is a delicious and easy pasta dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner. Cook fettuccine according to the package directions and set it aside. In a skillet, cook sliced mushrooms until they’re tender. Add minced garlic and spinach to the skillet and cook until the spinach is wilted. Toss the cooked fettuccine with the mushroom and spinach mixture.

13. Penne with Vodka Sauce

Penne with vodka sauce is a creamy and flavorful pasta dish that is easy to make. Cook penne pasta according to the package directions and set it aside. In a skillet, cook minced garlic and red pepper flakes until the garlic is fragrant. Add canned tomatoes and vodka to the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes. Add heavy cream and let the mixture simmer for a few more minutes. Toss the cooked penne with the vodka sauce and serve.