Pasta – it’s a staple in many of our diets. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, carb-loaded meal or a quick and easy solution to a busy night, pasta has got you covered. But let’s be real, not all pasta dishes are created equal. Some require hours of simmering sauce, while others need a trip to the grocery store to pick up a bunch of exotic ingredients.
That’s why we’ve put together this list of 20 quick pasta recipes that are perfect for busy nights. These dishes are designed to be fast, flavorful, and easy to make – no special skills or equipment required! From classic combinations like garlic shrimp and creamy tomato basil, to unique twists like lemon ricotta and pesto with cherry tomatoes, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these recipes in detail, sharing tips, tricks, and variations to help you get started. Whether you’re a pasta newbie or a seasoned pro, we hope you find inspiration in these easy and delicious recipe ideas.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
This recipe combines succulent shrimp, flavorful garlic butter, and al dente pasta for a mouthwatering meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a restaurant-quality dish in the comfort of your own home.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz (225g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp (30ml) unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta and shrimp mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
A classic Italian-inspired pasta dish that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and cream. This recipe is a perfect weeknight dinner option that’s quick to prepare and delicious to devour.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
4. Stir in chopped basil and cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-basil sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Lemon Garlic Pasta
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the brightness of lemon, pungency of garlic, and comforting warmth of a one-pot dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta, and cook according to package instructions.
2. In the same pot, add olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth.
3. Stir well to combine, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Drain cooked pasta, and return it to the pot with the sauce. Toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This beloved pasta dish originates from Italy, where simplicity and flavor reign supreme. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a quick-cooking recipe that combines the richness of garlic and olive oil with the springiness of spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6-8 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional), for added heat
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
3. Add the sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown.
4. Remove the skillet from heat. Toss cooked spaghetti with garlic-infused oil, adding salt to taste.
5. If desired, add red pepper flakes for an extra kick of heat.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Quickly elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and colorful recipe. In just a few minutes, you’ll be enjoying a delicious dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto and reserved pasta water. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices and soften slightly.
4. Toss the cooked pasta with the pesto-tomato mixture, adding Parmesan cheese and seasonings as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Alfredo Fettuccine
This simple yet satisfying recipe is a perfect solution for a quick and delicious meal that’s sure to please. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll have a rich and creamy fettuccine dish on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the cheese sauce and toss to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caprese Pasta Salad
This Caprese-inspired pasta salad combines the flavors of Italy with the comfort of a cold pasta dish. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in a creamy and tangy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine vinegar
– 2 tsp. chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the halved cherry tomatoes and sliced mozzarella to the bowl. Toss gently to combine.
4. Stir in the cooked pasta, chopped basil, and grated Parmesan (if using).
5. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Baked Ziti
A classic comfort food dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This recipe combines al dente ziti pasta with a rich and creamy cheese sauce, baked to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ziti pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked ziti pasta, cheese mixture (cheddar, mozzarella, Parmesan), crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper.
5. Transfer the pasta mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with additional grated mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Broccoli
This creamy pasta dish combines the savory flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender broccoli for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a family gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, until tender.
4. Stir in flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, until thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water as needed.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Mushroom Spinach Pasta
A flavorful and nutritious pasta dish that combines sautéed mushrooms and spinach with al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti, mushroom-spinach mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pasta
A bright and creamy pasta dish that combines the flavors of lemon zest, ricotta cheese, and garlic for a delightful spring-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the ricotta mixture and stir until combined.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss with the ricotta sauce until well coated.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Primavera with Veggies
A classic springtime pasta dish, Pasta Primavera with Veggies is a vibrant and flavorful celebration of the season’s freshest ingredients. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bowtie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, carrots, snap peas, and zucchini)
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in chicken broth, basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture. Toss to combine.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Simple Tuna Pasta Salad
This recipe combines the convenience of canned tuna with the freshness of pasta and vegetables, making it a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup red onion slices
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion slices.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine with the tuna mixture.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this spicy pasta dish, inspired by the classic Italian arrabbiata sauce!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup crushed San Marzano tomatoes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Extra virgin olive oil, for serving
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing flavors to meld together.
5. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked spaghetti and arrabbiata sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Top with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Mac and Cheese
In this comforting recipe, a flavorful sauce coats tender pasta and cheesy goodness, all cooked in just one pot!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil, then add the macaroni. Cook for 8 minutes or until al dente.
2. Drain the pasta, leaving about 1 cup of water in the pot.
3. Add milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir until smooth and creamy.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
A classic Italian dish that’s quick to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is a great way to elevate your pasta game without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain the cooked pasta and toss with the garlic butter sauce.
6. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Sauce preparation: 5 minutes
– Total cooking time: 13-15 minutes
Easy Pesto Chicken Pasta
This quick and flavorful pasta dish combines the creaminess of pesto with the juiciness of chicken, perfect for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, cook chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add pesto sauce and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and pesto mixture. Top with cherry tomatoes and Parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tomato Basil Penne
A classic Italian dish that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the brightness of basil, all wrapped up in a satisfying penne pasta. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil and cooked penne pasta. Toss with reserved pasta water to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Scampi
A classic Italian-inspired dish that combines succulent shrimp with the brightness of lemon and the richness of garlic, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the shrimp under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
5. Pour in lemon juice and white wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Return the shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Quick Pasta Carbonara
This classic Italian dish gets a speedy makeover with our Quick Pasta Carbonara recipe. With just a few ingredients and 15 minutes of cooking time, you can enjoy a rich and creamy pasta dish that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the reserved pasta water and bring to a simmer.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss with the egg mixture until well coated.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cook up quick and delicious pasta dishes with these 20 easy recipes perfect for busy nights. From classic combinations like garlic butter shrimp and creamy tomato basil, to one-pot wonders like lemon garlic pasta and cheesy baked ziti, there’s something for everyone. Discover new favorites like pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, or simple yet satisfying options like caprese pasta salad and tuna pasta salad. Whether you’re a pasta pro or just looking for a quick meal solution, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and fill your belly.
