When you’re craving a delicious, satisfying meal but are short on time and ingredients, it’s natural to turn to the trusty pantry staples. Pasta is often the go-to solution for a quick and easy dinner, and when combined with canned goods, spices, and other storecupboard essentials, the possibilities become endless! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouth-watering pantry pasta recipes that are perfect for busy nights or any time you need a culinary pick-me-up. From classic spaghetti dishes to hearty stews and soups, these tasty treats are sure to become staples in your own kitchen repertoire.
Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti
This classic Italian-inspired recipe combines the simplicity of spaghetti with the bold flavors of garlic and olive oil, resulting in a deliciously comforting dish. With just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
4. Once the spaghetti is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the garlic and olive oil.
5. Toss the spaghetti in the garlic-infused oil, seasoning with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canned Tomato and Basil Penne
Quick and Delicious Canned Tomato and Basil Penne Recipe
Looking for a simple yet flavorful pasta dish? This recipe combines the comfort of penne pasta with the bright, tangy flavors of canned tomatoes and fresh basil. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound penne pasta
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the canned tomatoes and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Stir in the chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and tomato-basil sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pantry Raid Pasta with Tuna and Capers
A tasty and satisfying meal that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a lazy Sunday lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add flaked tuna and capers to the skillet. Stir to combine.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the tuna mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Spaghetti with Breadcrumbs
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zesty combination of lemon, garlic, and crispy breadcrumbs.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 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. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in lemon juice and stir to combine with garlic. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with lemon-garlic mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the spaghetti. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until breadcrumbs are golden brown and crispy.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Quick Chickpea and Pasta Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of creamy chickpeas, tender pasta, and aromatic spices, ready in just 30 minutes. It’s a comforting meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 1 cup small pasta shapes (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini)
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the vegetable broth, chickpeas, pasta, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the pasta is cooked al dente.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Tomato and Anchovy Linguine
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy tomatoes, salty anchovies, and tangy garlic with linguine pasta for a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 6-8 anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine 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. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and add chopped anchovies. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce becomes too thick.
6. Combine cooked linguine with tomato-anchovy sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with chopped parsley and Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Pasta Aglio e Olio with Red Pepper Flakes
This Italian-inspired pasta dish is a staple for those who love the combination of garlic, olive oil, and spicy kick. With the addition of red pepper flakes, this recipe takes the classic to a whole new level.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
3. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until golden brown, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the red pepper flakes and cook for an additional minute.
5. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the skillet with the garlic and oil mixture.
6. Toss everything together, seasoning with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pantry-Friendly Puttanesca Pasta
This classic Italian pasta dish is a staple of simplicity and flavor. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4-6 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 cup chopped green olives
– 1/2 cup pitted and chopped green peppers
– 1/2 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add olives, peppers, capers, salt, pepper, and oregano to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine. Toss cooked pasta with the puttanesca sauce until well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Olive and Artichoke Heart Farfalle
This recipe combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with the classic Italian pasta dish, farfalle. The combination of olives, artichoke hearts, garlic, and lemon creates a savory and aromatic sauce that coats each piece of pasta perfectly.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz farfalle
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook farfalle according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add sliced olives and chopped artichoke hearts to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked farfalle with the olive-artichoke mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
White Bean and Garlic Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines creamy cannellini beans with the pungency of garlic and the comfort of a warm, al dente noodle. Perfect for a cozy night in or a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 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 the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add the cannellini beans to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once pasta is cooked, drain and add to the skillet with bean mixture. Toss to combine, ensuring noodles are well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pantry Pasta with Sardines and Lemon
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of sardines with the brightness of lemon, all using pantry staples.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cups water
– 1 can sardines in oil (drained and chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the pasta and water to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 8-10 minutes or until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, combine olive oil, garlic, and chopped sardines. Cook over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes or until the sardines are heated through.
3. Add lemon juice to the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the sardine mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Onion Bucatini
Savor the sweet flavor of fresh tomatoes and onions, combined with the rich taste of bucatini pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) bucatini pasta
– 2 medium-sized tomatoes, diced
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 tbsp olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bucatini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they release their juices and start to caramelize.
3. Add the thinly sliced onions to the pan and continue cooking for another 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are translucent and slightly caramelized.
4. Combine the cooked pasta, tomato-onion mixture, and a pinch of salt in a large serving bowl. Toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated.
5. Serve hot, topped with chopped fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Canned Mushrooms and Herbs
Pasta with Canned Mushrooms and Herbs: A Quick and Easy Recipe
This recipe combines the convenience of canned mushrooms with the freshness of herbs to create a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a busy day when you need something quick and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of mushrooms, drained and chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried parsley
– 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, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Butter Noodles with Parmesan
This classic combination of garlic, butter, and parmesan cheese is a simple yet satisfying way to elevate plain noodles. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a delicious and comforting side dish or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the saucepan with the garlic butter. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the noodles and toss again to distribute evenly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Pantry Pasta Salad with Canned Veggies
This recipe is a great way to use up canned vegetables and pantry staples to create a delicious and healthy pasta salad. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a satisfying meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, bowtie, or macaroni)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1 cup canned mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken, canned mixed vegetables, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Mix well.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until coated with the vegetable mixture.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If desired, top with grated cheddar cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Canned Clam Sauce
This recipe is a delicious and straightforward twist on classic spaghetti, featuring the rich flavor of canned clams.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of clams in juice
– 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 the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the canned clams, including the juice, and stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the clam sauce. Toss to combine, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil and Pasta Stew
This comforting stew combines the nutritious benefits of lentils with the satisfaction of al dente pasta, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. With its rich flavor and tender texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or penne)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a little water until tender.
2. Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and add to the stew.
4. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to combine flavors.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe featuring roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli, or spaghetti)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the tops off the red peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, and add minced garlic.
4. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered and charred.
5. Remove from oven and let cool.
6. Peel off skin, then chop peppers into small pieces.
7. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
8. Toss cooked pasta with roasted red pepper sauce, Parmesan cheese, and a pinch of black pepper.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pantry Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
This recipe is a quick and delicious way to use up pantry staples and sun-dried tomatoes. With minimal ingredients and no cooking from scratch, this dish comes together in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as penne or bowtie)
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried 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 skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken breast and sun-dried tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes or until heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken mixture, basil, salt, and pepper in a serving bowl.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Quick Garlic and Herb Pasta with Canned Corn
This flavorful pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch. With the help of canned corn, this recipe comes together quickly and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup canned corn, drained
– 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. 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 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add canned corn, parsley, and basil to the skillet. Stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with corn mixture. If necessary, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 easy pantry pasta recipes perfect for busy nights! From classic spaghetti dishes to creative soup and salad options, these recipes use common ingredients found in your pantry. Try Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti, Canned Tomato and Basil Penne, or Pantry Raid Pasta with Tuna and Capers. Or, get adventurous with Spicy Tomato and Anchovy Linguine or Pantry-Friendly Puttanesca Pasta. With these easy and delicious recipes, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time.
