Pasta lovers, rejoice! With a world of flavors at your fingertips, it’s easy to get stuck in a culinary rut. That’s why we’ve compiled 20 unique and mouth-watering pasta recipes to take your meals to the next level. From decadent truffle mushroom pappardelle to bold kimchi udon carbonara, these dishes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and refreshing, our collection has got you covered. With ingredients ranging from familiar favorites like lobster and crab to more exotic options like matcha and gochujang, there’s something for every taste and dietary preference.
In this article, we’ll be diving into each of these 20 recipes, sharing tips and tricks for bringing out the best in your pasta dishes. From cooking techniques to clever substitutions, you’ll find everything you need to start experimenting with new flavors and textures.
So without further ado, let’s get started on this culinary journey!
Truffle Mushroom Pappardelle with Crispy Sage
Experience the rich flavors of Italy with this decadent pasta dish, featuring earthy truffles and crispy sage.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pappardelle pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup truffle butter or truffle oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh sage leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pappardelle 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 chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in truffle butter or truffle oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked pappardelle pasta with mushroom mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.
7. Garnish with crispy sage leaves (see note).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lobster Ravioli with Saffron Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this luxurious dish featuring tender lobster-filled ravioli smothered in a rich and aromatic saffron cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lobster meat
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– Salt, to taste
– Saffron threads (about 1/4 teaspoon)
– Unsalted butter (4 tablespoons)
– Heavy cream (1 1/2 cups)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Make the ravioli dough by combining flour, eggs, and salt in a mixing bowl.
3. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into squares.
4. Place a small spoonful of lobster meat onto one half of each square, then fold the other half over to form a triangle.
5. Cook ravioli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, or until they float. Drain and set aside.
6. For the saffron cream sauce: melt butter in a saucepan, add saffron threads, and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve ravioli with warm saffron cream sauce and garnish with chopped parsley.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Black Garlic Spaghetti with Chili Oil and Pecorino
This recipe combines the rich flavors of black garlic, spicy chili oil, and tangy Pecorino cheese to create a unique and mouthwatering spaghetti dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 cloves black garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– 1/2 cup grated Pecorino cheese
– Salt and pepper, 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 until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a small saucepan, combine black garlic and chili oil over low heat. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fragrant and slightly thickened.
3. Add reserved pasta cooking liquid to the black garlic-chili oil mixture and stir to combine.
4. Toss cooked spaghetti with the black garlic-chili oil sauce and top with grated Pecorino cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beetroot Gnocchi with Brown Butter and Walnuts
Experience the sweet and earthy flavor combination of beetroot gnocchi, rich brown butter, and crunchy walnuts. This unique recipe is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 large beetroot, cooked and peeled
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup semolina flour
– 1 egg
– Salt to taste
– Brown butter (see below)
– Chopped walnuts for garnish
Gnocchi Preparation:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cooked beetroot, flours, and egg. Mix until a dough forms.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5 minutes.
3. Divide the dough into 4 equal parts and roll each part into a log shape.
4. Cut the logs into 1-inch pieces to form gnocchi.
Brown Butter Preparation:
1. Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a pan over medium heat.
2. Continue cooking until the butter turns golden brown and has a nutty aroma.
3. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cooking Time:
– Boil gnocchi for 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
– Toss cooked gnocchi with brown butter and sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
– Serve immediately.
Squid Ink Linguine with Crab and Lemon Zest
Elevate your pasta game with this decadent yet refreshing recipe featuring the bold flavors of squid ink linguine, succulent crab meat, and a hint of citrus.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz squid ink linguine
– 1/2 cup jumbo lump crab meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated lemon zest for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add crab meat, white wine, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine, then simmer for 2-3 minutes, or until the crab is heated through.
4. Combine cooked linguine with the crab mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with freshly grated lemon zest and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pumpkin Tortellini with Sage Brown Butter
This seasonal pasta dish combines the warmth of pumpkin and sage with the richness of brown butter, perfect for a cozy fall evening. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create a deliciously comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pumpkin tortellini
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the tortellini 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 chopped sage and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the saucepan and stir to combine with the browned butter and sage.
4. Add the cooked tortellini to the saucepan and toss to coat with the brown butter mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Charred Corn and Burrata Orecchiette
This recipe combines the sweetness of charred corn with the creaminess of burrata cheese, all wrapped up in a delicious orecchiette pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz orecchiette pasta
– 2 cups charred corn kernels (see note)
– 1 ball burrata cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the charred corn kernels and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces. Add to the skillet with the corn and stir until melted and creamy.
4. Add the cooked orecchiette pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the corn and cheese mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add a bit of the reserved cooking water.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Udon Carbonara with Bacon
This recipe combines the creamy richness of carbonara with the bold flavors of kimchi and udon noodles. Crispy bacon adds a satisfying crunch to this unique fusion dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz udon noodles
– 4 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook udon noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add chopped kimchi and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly caramelized.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream and eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked noodles, bacon, and kimchi mixture to the cream mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
6. Cook over low heat for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Matcha Pasta with Miso Butter and Edamame
This recipe combines the bright green tea flavor of matcha with the savory richness of miso butter and the crunch of edamame for a unique and delicious pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 2 tsp. matcha powder
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp. white miso paste
– 1 cup edamame, shelled and cooked
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add miso paste and whisk until smooth.
3. Add matcha powder and whisk until well combined.
4. Toss cooked pasta with the matcha-miso sauce.
5. Top with edamame, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Gochujang Rigatoni with Crispy Shallots
Spice up your pasta game with this bold and savory fusion of Korean chili paste, gochujang, and Italian rigatoni. The sweet and smoky flavors of the crispy shallots add a delightful textural contrast to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb rigatoni
– 2 tbsp gochujang
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 large shallots, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rigatoni according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add thinly sliced onions and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 20-25 minutes).
4. Remove onions from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in gochujang paste and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
6. Add cooked rigatoni to the skillet, tossing to combine with gochujang mixture.
7. Top with crispy shallots (cook in oven at 400°F for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown).
8. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pistachio Pesto Trofie with Green Beans
Elevate your pasta game with this vibrant and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer gathering. Pistachio pesto adds a nutty twist to traditional basil pesto, while green beans provide a delightful crunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz trofie pasta
– 1/2 cup pistachio pesto (see below)
– 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Pistachio Pesto:
– 1 cup cooked pistachios
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook trofie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans with salt and pepper until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
3. Add pistachio pesto to the skillet and stir to combine with green beans.
4. Toss cooked pasta with pesto-green bean mixture and serve immediately. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Blue Cheese and Pear Stuffed Shells
These creamy, cheesy shells are filled with a surprise – the sweetness of pears pairs perfectly with the pungency of blue cheese. This unique combination is sure to impress your dinner guests.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 ripe pear, diced
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1/4 cup ricotta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix together blue cheese, ricotta cheese, and diced pear.
4. Stuff each shell with the blue cheese mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until shells are lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Za’atar Pappardelle with Roasted Eggplant
Elevate your pasta game with this Middle Eastern-inspired dish that combines the earthy sweetness of roasted eggplant with the nutty flavor of za’atar and pappardelle. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pappardelle
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp za’atar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss eggplant slices with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pappardelle according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add za’atar and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Combine cooked pasta, roasted eggplant, and za’atar mixture in a serving dish. Toss gently to combine.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese (if using) and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chocolate Pasta with Raspberry Coulis and Mascarpone
This rich and creamy pasta dish combines the deep flavors of dark chocolate with the sweetness of raspberries, topped with a tangy mascarpone cream. Perfect for a special occasion or romantic dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pappardelle pasta
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped
– 1 cup fresh raspberries
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 8 oz. mascarpone cheese
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and butter. Heat over medium heat until the butter melts and the mixture simmers.
3. Remove from heat and whisk in chopped chocolate until melted and smooth.
4. Puree raspberries with sugar in a blender or food processor until smooth. Strain seeds if desired.
5. In a small bowl, mix mascarpone cheese with a pinch of salt.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chocolate sauce, and raspberry coulis. Toss to combine.
7. Top with mascarpone cream and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Orzo Salad
A flavorful and colorful salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe combines the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes with the tanginess of feta cheese and the creaminess of Greek yogurt.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Orzo pasta
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook Orzo pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and Greek yogurt. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked Orzo pasta to the bowl and toss to combine with the tomato-feta mixture.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Milk Linguine with Lemongrass Shrimp
This creamy linguine dish combines the richness of coconut milk with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass and succulent shrimp. A perfect fusion of flavors for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 stalk lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine coconut milk, garlic, and lemongrass. Heat over medium heat, whisking occasionally, until warmed through.
3. Add cooked shrimp to the coconut milk mixture and cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink and fully cooked.
4. Combine cooked linguine with the coconut milk and shrimp mixture. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Crispy Breadcrumbs
Elevate your mac and cheese game with the rich flavor of smoked Gouda and a satisfying crunch from crispy breadcrumbs. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated Smoked Gouda
– 1 cup grated cheddar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Fresh breadcrumbs (about 1 cup)
– Optional: chopped herbs or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook 1 minute.
4. Slowly add milk while whisking; bring to a simmer. Remove from heat.
5. Stir in Smoked Gouda, cheddar, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with breadcrumbs.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Harissa Spaghetti with Roasted Chickpeas
Elevate your pasta game with this spicy and satisfying dish, combining the bold flavors of North African cuisine with the comfort of a classic spaghetti dish.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tbsp harissa paste
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until crispy.
3. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat harissa paste over medium-low heat for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Add sliced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until softened.
6. Combine cooked spaghetti with the harissa-onion mixture. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with roasted chickpeas and grated Parmesan cheese (if desired).
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Avocado Basil Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
This vibrant pasta dish combines the creaminess of avocado with the brightness of basil and sweetness of cherry tomatoes, creating a delightful summer meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. 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 cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices.
3. Add chopped basil to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with tomato-basil mixture.
5. Stir in diced avocado, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pierogi Pasta
Caramelized Onion and Gruyère Pierogi Pasta: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food
This recipe combines the rich flavors of caramelized onions, creamy Gruyère cheese, and homemade pierogi pasta for a unique and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 8 oz pierogi pasta
– 2 cups grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Caramelize onions by cooking them in olive oil over medium-low heat for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add butter and salt; stir until melted.
3. Cook pierogi pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, combine caramelized onions and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer and cook until liquid is reduced by half.
5. Add cooked pierogi pasta to the skillet and toss with onion mixture.
6. Transfer pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with Gruyère cheese.
7. Dot the top with heavy cream and sprinkle with chopped parsley (if using).
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your pasta game with these 20 unique recipes! From classic combinations like truffle mushroom pappardelle and lobster ravioli, to bold flavors like black garlic spaghetti and gochujang rigatoni, there’s something for every taste. Other standout dishes include beetroot gnocchi with brown butter and walnuts, squid ink linguine with crab and lemon zest, and even chocolate pasta with raspberry coulis and mascarpone. Whether you’re in the mood for something rich and creamy or light and fresh, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal.
