Sick of sacrificing precious time to cooking after a long day at work. We all crave a satisfying meal, but the thought of cooking can be overwhelming. That’s where weeknight pasta recipes come to the rescue. These quick, easy, and mouthwatering recipes are perfect for busy evenings when time is scarce. Whether you’re a meat enthusiast, a vegetarian, or someone who loves a little bit of everything, we’ve got you covered with a range of delicious options.
So grab your apron and let’s explore some tasty pasta dishes that will have you saying goodbye to takeout for good. With these recipes, you can enjoy a delightful meal without sacrificing too much time – perfect for balancing work and leisure.
Kitchen Sink Pasta
This weeknight pasta recipe, Kitchen Sink Pasta, is a reliable go-to for a quick and satisfying meal. By combining pantry staples like dried pasta and store-bought sauce, you can create a versatile dish that’s easily customizable with your favorite add-ins – think veggies, ground meat, or whatever else you have lying around. The best part is, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it the perfect solution for using up leftovers and whipping up something tasty.
Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake
For hectic weeknights, a reliable and delectable recipe like Easy Cheesy Weeknight Pasta Bake is a savior. The best part is that it can be prepared ahead of time and even stashed in the freezer for a stress-free meal later on. This comforting dish brings together penne pasta, savory ground beef or turkey, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped off with a luscious blend of ricotta and Parmesan cheese that’s simply divine.
When melted mozzarella adds its creamy touch, this kid-friendly delight is sure to satisfy the whole family’s cravings.
Ziti with Chipotle Lentil Tomato Sauce
Indulge in the rich flavors of Ziti with Chipotle Lentil Tomato Sauce, a satisfying vegan and soy-free weeknight pasta dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. The smoky chipotle peppers and lentils in the sauce create a depth of flavor that will leave you craving more, and the best part: this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your dietary needs, including gluten-free options for those who require them.
To add some extra flair, try customizing with seasonal veggies like garlic-roasted asparagus or roasted Brussels sprouts. With its quick cooking time and versatility, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both nourishing and convenient.
Weeknight Pasta Sauce
A game-changing recipe for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, the Weeknight Pasta Sauce boasts a rich flavor profile with minimal fuss. Combining ground beef, crushed tomatoes, sautéed onion, melted butter, and a pinch of seasonings, this sauce is a masterclass in simplicity. The secret to its depth lies in the 30-minute slow-cook, which skillfully tames the acidity of the tomatoes and coaxes out their natural sweetness.
The judicious addition of butter injects a velvety smoothness, harmonizing the flavors with effortless precision. Whether spooned over al dente pasta or drizzled over roasted vegetables, this sauce is an undisputed champion for busy weeknight meals.
Tomato Basil Pasta with Grilled Chicken
This delectable weeknight pasta dish is a masterclass in simplicity. By combining grilled chicken, juicy grape tomatoes, al dente penne, rich chicken broth, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, pungent garlic, and a pinch of salt, you’ll create a culinary symphony that’s sure to delight the whole family.
The magic happens when the dish is baked in the oven for 40 minutes, topped with a generous helping of melted cheese, and then given an additional 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Pasta with Grape Tomatoes
Savoring the simplicity of Pasta with Grape Tomatoes, this weeknight dinner staple is a masterclass in effortless indulgence. The harmonious union of sautéed tomatoes – infused with the pungency of garlic and the subtle heat of red pepper flakes – melds seamlessly with cooked pasta and the bright, herbaceous notes of fresh basil.
A testament to the versatility of this dish lies in its ability to adapt to any type of pasta, guaranteeing a satisfying reprieve from the daily grind, regardless of the time of day.
Sweet Tomato & Broccoli Rabe Baked Penne
This weeknight pasta recipe, Sweet Tomato & Broccoli Rabe Baked Penne, offers a trifecta of benefits: it’s gluten-free, vegan, and allergy-friendly. What’s more, this dish is bursting with flavor and nutrients from the featured veggies. This hearty meal has been crafted to cater to diverse dietary needs while still satisfying everyone’s taste buds.
Tortellini with Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach Alfredo
This delectable pasta dish, Tortellini with Sun-dried Tomato and Spinach Alfredo, is an ideal solution for hectic weeknights when you need a quick yet flavorful meal. The cheese-filled tortellini is lavishly smothered in a rich Alfredo sauce, infused with the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes and wilted spinach. For added richness and protein, consider incorporating chopped rotisserie chicken into the recipe.
Serve it alongside a refreshing side salad and crusty bread for a truly satisfying meal experience.
Creamy Pasta Primavera
In just 20 minutes, you can create a vibrant and flavorful Creamy Pasta Primavera that embodies the essence of spring. The dish boasts a zesty, yet light sauce, an array of colorful veggies, and is remarkably easy to prepare. The key to its creamy texture lies in the Greek yogurt, which expertly balances the flavors without overpowering the other ingredients. This versatile recipe can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or paired with grilled chicken or succulent shrimp for added protein.
It’s the perfect way to inject fresh seasonal vegetables into your dinner routine and experience the beauty of spring on your plate.
Easy One-Pot Pasta
This one-pot pasta dish has become a go-to option for quick and effortless weeknight meals. By combining uncooked pasta, vegetables, and sauce in a single pot, you can create a richly flavored and satisfying meal that’s sure to please. One of the best aspects of this recipe is its versatility – it accommodates both gluten-free and gluten-containing pasta options with ease. To ensure the best results, shorter pasta shapes are recommended for their ability to cook evenly.
Overall, this fuss-free recipe is a tasty and time-saving solution for busy evenings when you need a meal that’s as easy on your schedule as it is on your taste buds.
Baked Feta Pasta
This delightful Baked Feta Pasta recipe is a staple for any weeknight meal. The combination of ripe cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and a block of feta cheese baked together creates a harmonious balance of flavors. As the dish cooks, the tomatoes burst with juicy sweetness, while the cheese melts into a creamy delight. A sprinkle of fresh basil leaves adds a bright and herbaceous note to the dish.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly adaptable – feel free to add your favorite ingredients like olives, capers, or cooked protein to give it a personal touch. With its flexibility in cooking methods (slow cooker or oven) and ability to be stored in the fridge for up to three days, Baked Feta Pasta is an ideal solution for a quick and satisfying dinner that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Tomato Zucchini Summer Pasta
Tomato Zucchini Summer Pasta shines as a vibrant and effortless weeknight meal, showcasing the richness of summer’s freshest produce. With a mere ten ingredients and under thirty minutes of cooking time, this dish embodies simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The zucchini’s golden crust, achieved by browning it in ghee, elevates its natural sweetness and adds depth to the overall taste profile.
A sauce crafted from cherry tomatoes, pasta water, and fragrant basil injects a burst of freshness, harmonizing with the toasted zucchini. This versatile pasta can be easily paired with grilled chicken or shrimp for added protein, while red pepper flakes bring a subtle warmth without overpowering the dish’s nuances. Ultimately, Tomato Zucchini Summer Pasta stands as a delectable and satisfying option for a speedy weeknight meal, perfect for hot summer evenings.
Lemony Rigatoni Pasta with Kale and Shallots
A weeknight staple, Lemony Rigatoni Pasta with Kale and Shallots shines with its harmonious balance of creamy rigatoni, sweet caramelized shallots, and peppery kale. The dish is elevated by a zesty lemon dressing that adds a much-needed brightness to the plate. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts and shaved Parmesan cheese brings depth and texture to each bite. With its simplicity, freshness, and comfort factor, this recipe is an ideal solution for a quick yet satisfying dinner any day of the week.
Basil Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and Mushrooms
With its effortless preparation time of just 30 minutes, Basil Pesto Pasta with Broccoli and Mushrooms is an ideal solution for hectic weeknights. The dish’s star players – al dente pasta, earthy mushrooms, crisp broccoli, and the richly aromatic basil pesto sauce – harmonize to create a well-rounded and mouthwatering meal that will quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire.
Pasta Carbonara
Pasta Carbonara is an effortless yet adaptable weeknight meal that can be whipped up in no time. At its core, it consists of humble ingredients such as pasta, crispy bacon, eggs, and nutty parmesan cheese. The beauty of this dish lies in its ability to be easily customized with additional veggies or vegetarian alternatives.
With a preparation time of just 15 minutes, Pasta Carbonara is an ideal solution for hectic weeknights when you need a flavorful and filling meal that will satisfy even the most discerning pasta enthusiasts.
Creamy Tomato Pasta with Coconut Milk
In just four simple ingredients, this Creamy Tomato Pasta with Coconut Milk dish delivers a rich and satisfying weeknight meal. The harmonious blend of coconut milk, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, and salt yields a subtly sweet and creamy sauce that’s both dairy-free and adaptable to gluten-free diets when paired with GF pasta. This recipe is an ideal solution for a fast-paced dinner that won’t compromise on flavor.
Quick and Easy Chicken Pasta
This mouthwatering Quick and Easy Chicken Pasta recipe is an ideal solution for a quick and satisfying meal that can be whipped up in just 15 minutes. The dish features chicken, pasta, and garlic tomato sauce, all topped with a generous sprinkling of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity and ease of preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights when you want to indulge in a delicious yet hassle-free meal that the whole family will love.
By cooking the pasta while sautéing the chicken, then combining everything with the sauce and cheese, you can save time and still end up with a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Roasted Tomato and Bell Pepper Pasta
Roasting tomatoes and bell peppers elevates this weeknight pasta dish to new heights. The resulting sauce is rich in flavor, with the sweetness of the roasted vegetables perfectly balanced by the creaminess of the heavy cream. A pinch of red chili flakes adds a welcome burst of heat. This adaptable recipe can be tailored to suit your taste by adding your preferred protein and type of pasta.
What’s more, reheating leftovers is a cinch, thanks to the addition of water or cream that prevents the pasta from drying out. In short, this roasted tomato and bell pepper pasta recipe is a surefire winner for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Lemon Swiss Chard Pasta
This quick and flavorful Lemon Swiss Chard Pasta recipe makes for a perfect weeknight dinner solution. Linguine noodles are paired with sautéed Swiss chard, garlic, and onions, all wrapped up in a zesty sauce crafted from green olives, capers, and fresh lemon juice. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley adds the final touch to this delightful pasta dish.
In just 20 minutes, you can go from start to finish, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you need a meal that’s both satisfying and speedy.
Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta
Savory and satisfying, Healthy Tuscan Chicken Pasta is a weeknight savior that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutritious goodness. By incorporating wholesome ingredients like sun-kissed tomatoes, lean chicken breast, whole grain pasta, and a creamy blend of cottage cheese and Greek yogurt, this recipe elevates the popular restaurant dish into a guilt-free delight.
With its versatility in cooking methods – Instant Pot, Crock Pot, or stovetop – and impressive reheat-and-refrigerate capabilities, this meal prep masterpiece is an ideal solution for busy households seeking flavor and nutrition in one.
Weeknight Pasta with Turkey and Spinach
For families on-the-go, this weeknight pasta recipe is a savior. By using Honeysuckle White Ground Turkey as the protein source, you’ll get a boost of flavor without sacrificing ease. The orecchiette pasta provides a perfect vessel for the sauce and flavors to meld together, allowing you to personalize it with your go-to greens and spices. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or looking to mix things up, this versatile pasta dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Skillet Broccoli Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta
Indulge in the comfort of a one-skillet wonder – Skillet Broccoli Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta This mouthwatering recipe seamlessly blends tender chicken, nutrient-rich broccoli, and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta in a rich Parmesan sauce. As a bonus, it’s an incredibly convenient and low-maintenance option for busy weeknights, requiring minimal clean-up and no compromise on flavor or satisfaction.
Cream Cheese Pasta Bake
This Cream Cheese Pasta Bake is a weeknight savior, offering a rich and flavorful meal that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. The combination of cherry tomatoes, onions, sun-dried tomatoes, and cream cheese creates a velvety sauce that’s sure to satisfy. A burst of freshness comes from the addition of spinach, which can be easily swapped out for your favorite leafy green.
What’s more, this recipe is incredibly versatile – feel free to customize it with your go-to pasta shape and protein of choice. The result: a quick, easy, and indulgent dinner that’s perfect for any night of the week.
Lemon Basil Pasta
A 15-minute weeknight wonder, Lemon Basil Pasta shines bright as a light and refreshing culinary delight. The harmonious union of lemon juice, white wine, and fragrant fresh basil yields a summery flavor profile that’s tailor-made for spring and summer. Pair this zesty concoction with your go-to pasta and crown it with a generous sprinkling of parmesan cheese for a family-friendly dinner that’s as delightful as it is quick.
Creamy Beef Pasta
Creamy Beef Pasta serves as a warm and inviting weeknight dinner solution. By combining ground beef with rotini pasta and a rich, cheesy tomato sauce, this recipe presents a delightful fusion of flavors. What’s more, the flexibility to modify ingredients and add personal touches makes it an adaptable option for those seeking a tailored culinary experience.
This comforting dish also boasts the advantage of being easily frozen for future meals, making it a convenient choice for those with busy schedules. Ultimately, Creamy Beef Pasta stands out as a mouthwatering and satisfying pick for pasta enthusiasts in search of a speedy and effortless meal.
One Pot Sausage Pasta
Savory One Pot Sausage Pasta makes for an exemplary weeknight dinner solution, marrying rich flavors with ease of preparation. The harmonious blend of creamy tomato mascarpone sauce, smoked Polish sausage, and piquant Cajun seasoning yields a truly delectable dish. Furthermore, the pasta cooks directly within the sauce, simplifying the cooking process and rendering this recipe an effortless yet satisfying option for families or busy individuals seeking a flavorful meal.
Weeknight Carbonara
Weeknights just got a whole lot tastier with the introduction of this vegetarian Carbonara by swapping out the traditional bacon for a generous helping of greens, we’ve created a healthier and equally flavorful twist on the classic. The sweetness from the sautéed onions balances beautifully with the tanginess of lemon juice, making for a truly satisfying meal.
And the best part: It all comes together in just 20 minutes thanks to a creamy sauce made with eggs, parmesan cheese, and pasta cooking water. This recipe is perfect for using up an abundance of greens from your CSA delivery or simply whipping up a quick and easy weeknight dinner that’s both simple and nutritious.
Simple Angel Hair Pasta
Simple Angel Hair Pasta is a culinary delight that can be prepared in just 22 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight meal solution. This vegetarian-friendly recipe requires only five ingredients to create a delectable sauce that harmoniously complements the angel hair pasta. The trifecta of fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil, combined with the richness of olive oil, yields a flavor profile that is both vibrant and satisfying.
By incorporating reserved pasta water into the sauce, the dish becomes even more cohesive and enjoyable. Whether served as a standalone vegetarian option or paired with your favorite protein, Simple Angel Hair Pasta proves to be a fantastic choice for a quick and fulfillring dinner.
Artichoke Pasta
In the world of weeknight cooking, few dishes are as satisfying as a well-crafted artichoke pasta recipe, and Artichoke Pasta certainly fits the bill, thanks to its richly flavored sauce that combines the subtle sweetness of artichoke hearts with the tangy zip of freshly squeezed lemon juice and the velvety smoothness of olive oil.
This plant-based delight is not only a treat for the taste buds but also happens to be vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free – making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. While spaghettini noodles provide the perfect base for this creamy sauce, feel free to experiment with other pasta shapes to find your favorite, and when you’re ready to add a touch of freshness, a sprinkle of basil and onion chives will elevate this dish from good to great.
