10 Quick and Easy Pasta Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Weeknights can be hectic, but that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice a delicious home-cooked meal. These 10 quick and easy pasta recipes are perfect for when you’re short on time but still crave a satisfying dinner. Let’s dive in!
1. Garlic Butter Spaghetti
Ingredients: Spaghetti, garlic, butter, parsley, Parmesan cheese
Prep Time: 20 minutes
This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of garlic and butter for a comforting meal. Toss al dente spaghetti in melted butter, minced garlic, and sprinkle parsley and Parmesan for a perfect finish.
Pro Tip: Use freshly grated Parmesan for maximum flavor!
2. Creamy Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients: Fettuccine, heavy cream, Parmesan, cooked chicken, garlic
Prep Time: 25 minutes
This indulgent dish is ready in no time. Simply whisk heavy cream and Parmesan to create a creamy sauce, mix in cooked chicken and garlic, and toss with fettuccine.
Pro Tip: Add a pinch of nutmeg for a unique depth of flavor.
3. One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
Ingredients: Linguine, tomatoes, basil, onion, garlic
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Everything cooks together in one pot for this time-saving recipe. Combine linguine, diced tomatoes, fresh basil, and seasoning, then simmer until done.
Pro Tip: Stir frequently to avoid sticking and ensure even cooking.
4. Pesto Penne with Veggies
Ingredients: Penne, store-bought pesto, cherry tomatoes, zucchini
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook penne and toss it with pesto, roasted cherry tomatoes, and zucchini slices for a healthy yet flavorful meal.
Pro Tip: For added crunch, top with toasted pine nuts.
5. Tuna Pasta Salad
Ingredients: Rotini, canned tuna, mayo, celery, lemon juice
Prep Time: 15 minutes
A cold pasta dish perfect for a quick fix! Combine rotini with tuna, mayo, diced celery, and a splash of lemon juice for a refreshing dinner.
Pro Tip: Chill in the fridge for 10 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor.
6. Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli
Ingredients: Store-bought ravioli, spinach, ricotta, marinara sauce
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Boil ravioli and layer it with sautéed spinach, ricotta, and warm marinara sauce for a dish that looks fancy but is super simple.
Pro Tip: Sprinkle with mozzarella and broil for 3 minutes for a cheesy top.
7. Shrimp Scampi Linguine
Ingredients: Linguine, shrimp, garlic, butter, lemon
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Sauté shrimp in butter and garlic, then toss with linguine and a generous squeeze of lemon juice for a zesty delight.
Pro Tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
8. Bolognese Pasta Bake
Ingredients: Rigatoni, ground beef, marinara sauce, mozzarella
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Layer cooked rigatoni with a savory beef marinara sauce and top with mozzarella. Bake until bubbly for a hearty meal.
Pro Tip: Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for an extra cheesy top.
9. Lemon Butter Orzo
Ingredients: Orzo, butter, lemon, parsley
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook orzo and toss it with lemon zest, butter, and parsley for a light and refreshing pasta option.
Pro Tip: Add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein.
10. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
Ingredients: Spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, red chili flakes, parsley
Prep Time: 20 minutes
This simple yet flavorful dish features spaghetti tossed in olive oil, garlic, and red chili flakes. Garnish with parsley for a fragrant finish.
Pro Tip: Don’t skimp on the olive oil – it’s the heart of the dish!
Final Thoughts
These 10 quick and easy pasta recipes ensure that even your busiest weeknights can include a delicious, homemade dinner. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, they’re perfect for satisfying cravings without the hassle.
