Pasta Dinner Recipes You’ll Crave Again & Again

When it comes to a delicious and satisfying pasta dinner, there’s no shortage of amazing options to choose from. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and refreshing, there’s a pasta dish out there to suit your tastes. From classic favorites to innovative twists, we’ve rounded up eight mouth-watering pasta recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen.

In this list, we’ve included a mix of comfort foods, flavor-packed sauces, and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Each dish is a masterclass in simplicity, using high-quality ingredients and minimal effort to produce a truly unforgettable meal. Whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd, these recipes are sure to impress and leave you wanting more.

1. Creamy Alfredo Pasta

Creamy Alfredo Pasta is a classic Italian-inspired dish that is sure to become a family favorite. This rich and indulgent recipe features a velvety sauce made with butter, cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic, perfectly balanced by the delicate flavor of cooked fettuccine pasta. To elevate this comforting dish, try adding some fresh parsley or basil for a pop of color and a hint of freshness.

Ingredients

– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
2. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add the flour and whisk to form a smooth paste.
4. Cook for 1-2 minutes, then gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens, stirring occasionally.
6. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese and minced garlic.
7. Combine the cooked fettuccine and Alfredo sauce, then sprinkle with parsley or basil leaves (if using).

2. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet flavorful Italian pasta dish that is made with just a few ingredients. This garlic-infused oil sauce is served over steaming spaghetti and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs and fresh parsley. With its bold flavors and light, zesty sauce, this recipe is perfect for springtime or any time of the year.

Ingredients

– 8 oz spaghetti
– 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– Salt and black pepper
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until the garlic is golden brown.
4. Add a pinch of salt and black pepper, then stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and toss it with the garlic-infused oil sauce.
6. Sprinkle with breadcrumbs and Parmesan cheese (if using) before serving.

3. Tomato Basil Penne

Tomato Basil Penne is a colorful and vibrant pasta dish that’s bursting with fresh flavors. This recipe is made with tender penne pasta tossed in a creamy sauce made with cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. To add a pop of color, try adding some diced bell peppers or sliced cherry tomatoes on top.

Ingredients

– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they release their juices.
5. Stir in the chopped basil and cook for 1 minute.
6. Toss cooked penne pasta with the tomato basil sauce, then top with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.

4. Mushroom Garlic Pasta

Mushroom Garlic Pasta is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe features a rich and savory sauce made with sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions, served over tender fettuccine pasta. To add a hint of creaminess, try stirring in a tablespoon of heavy cream or half-and-half.

Ingredients

– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups sliced mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh onion
– Salt and black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions.
2. Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until they release their liquid and start to brown.
4. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until softened.
5. Combine cooked fettuccine pasta with the mushroom garlic sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese and a dollop of heavy cream or half-and-half (if using).

5. Pesto Pasta with Veggies

Pesto Pasta with Veggies is a colorful and nutritious pasta dish that’s perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. This recipe features a vibrant pesto sauce made with basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, served over steaming penne pasta and topped with a medley of sautéed vegetables.

Ingredients

– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, and zucchini)
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until tender.
4. Stir in the pesto sauce and cook for an additional minute.
5. Toss cooked penne pasta with the pesto sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.

6. Cheesy Baked Ziti

Cheesy Baked Ziti is a comforting and indulgent pasta dish that’s perfect for a special occasion or family dinner. This recipe features a rich and creamy cheese sauce made with ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan, served over baked ziti pasta and topped with a golden-brown crust.

Ingredients

– 8 oz ziti pasta
– 2 cups ricotta cheese
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the cooked ziti pasta to the cheese mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil and spread the ziti pasta mixture inside.
6. Top with marinara sauce and sprinkle with breadcrumbs before baking.

7. Lemon Butter Pasta

Lemon Butter Pasta is a bright and citrusy pasta dish that’s perfect for a springtime or summer meal. This recipe features a light and zesty sauce made with lemon juice, butter, and parsley, served over steaming spaghetti and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the lemon juice to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in the chopped parsley and cooked spaghetti, then top with grated Parmesan cheese.

8. Arrabbiata Pasta

Arrabbiata Pasta is a spicy and flavorful pasta dish that’s perfect for those who love a little heat. This recipe features a spicy tomato sauce made with crushed tomatoes, garlic, and red pepper flakes, served over steaming spaghetti and topped with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Ingredients

– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups crushed tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes to the skillet and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
5. Stir in the cooked spaghetti and top with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.