When it comes to dinner, pasta is basically a LIFESAVER on busy weeknights.
It is warm, it is filling, and it is almost impossible to mess up.
Plus, you can mix in just about anything you have sitting in your fridge to make it taste AMAZING.
If you are tired of eating the exact same meal every single week, it is definitely time to mix things up.
I put together a list of the best pasta dinner recipes to help you feel inspired in the kitchen.
These easy ideas include cheesy baked dishes, quick stovetop noodles, and fresh meals loaded with veggies.
There is something for every craving—and every kind of cooking skill level.
So whether you are cooking for a big family or just looking for a fast meal after school, these recipes will save the day.
Let’s dive into the list and find your new favorite dinner!
1. Eggplant Pasta
Eggplant Pasta is a hearty vegetable stew that tastes wonderful when served over your favorite noodles.
It makes a cozy and satisfying meal for any night of the week.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
2. Fresh Pasta with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil
Fresh Pasta with Mozzarella, Tomato and Basil brings the bright flavors of summer right to your table.
You will love how the warm pasta melts the milky cheese and blends with sweet tomatoes and fresh herbs.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
3. Fried Pasta
Fried Pasta is a quick and simple dish made with tender noodles and savory onions.
This salty comfort food comes together in minutes for a fast and easy meal.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
4. Kid-Friendly Pasta
Kid-Friendly Pasta is a fun and simple meal designed for children to help make and enjoy.
Kids can safely whip up this easy recipe with a little help from an adult.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
5. MPT (Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato and Basil)
MPT (Mozzarella Pasta with Tomato and Basil) is a warm and comforting dish filled with sunny summer flavors.
The soft mozzarella and sweet tomatoes blend together to create a wonderful meal.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
6. Pasta in Gorgonzola Cheese Sauce (Pasta Alla Gorgonzola)
Pasta in Gorgonzola Cheese Sauce (Pasta Alla Gorgonzola) is a rich and creamy dish for cheese lovers.
This comforting meal coats every noodle in a smooth and savory sauce.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
7. Pasta with Hot Dogs
Pasta with Hot Dogs is a fun and hearty baked meal that the whole family can enjoy.
Chopped hot dogs and tender noodles are baked together to create a simple dinner.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
8. Rigatoni Pasta with Ricotta in Tomato Cream Sauce
Rigatoni Pasta with Ricotta in Tomato Cream Sauce features tender pasta coated in a rich and creamy tomato sauce.
It is finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a comforting dinner.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
9. Southwest Pasta
Southwest Pasta brings vibrant flavors to your dinner table with a tasty mix of bold spices and fresh vegetables.
This comforting meal is simple to make and adds a fun twist to your usual weeknight pasta routine.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
10. Chicken Alfredo
Chicken Alfredo is a comforting classic that pairs tender chicken and noodles in a rich, creamy sauce.
It makes a wonderful meal for family dinners and goes great with a warm side of garlic bread.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
11. Cheesy Chicken Pasta
Cheesy Chicken Pasta combines tender chicken, warm noodles, and plenty of melted cheese for a comforting meal.
It is an easy dinner option that the whole family will look forward to eating on busy weeknights.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
12. Chicken and Pasta Alfredo
Chicken and Pasta Alfredo features tender pieces of chicken tossed with thick noodles and a rich, creamy sauce.
This hearty dish is always a big hit at family dinners and tastes amazing with a side of toasted bread.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
13. Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Garlic Parmesan Pasta mixes simple noodles with rich butter, nutty cheese, and fresh garlic for a comforting dish.
It comes together in just a few minutes and makes a wonderful side dish or a quick main meal.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
14. Kale and Garlic Pasta
Kale and Garlic Pasta turns fresh greens into a tender, flavorful meal tossed with warm noodles and a hint of spice.
Cooking the greens for a bit takes away any bitterness, making this a great way to enjoy healthy vegetables.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
15. Pasta, Meat and Cheese Casserole (Mostaccioli)
Pasta, Meat and Cheese Casserole, also known as mostaccioli, is a hearty baked dish filled with savory meat and bubbly cheese.
It is a comforting and filling meal that easily feeds a hungry family on a busy night.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
16. Pasta with Vegetables
Pasta with Vegetables brings together tender noodles and a colorful mix of garden-fresh produce.
It is a light and wholesome meal that makes it easy to enjoy healthy vegetables in every bite.
Recipe from Wikibooks, licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0.
