10 Delicious Pasta Recipes You’ll Make Again and Again
We may earn a commission through all links on this website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.Pasta, the ultimate comfort food that never fails to evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just a fan of the classic Italian dish, there’s nothing quite like a perfectly cooked plate of spaghetti or linguine to satisfy your cravings. And the best part? Pasta is an incredibly versatile ingredient, allowing you to get creative with flavors, textures, and ingredients to suit any taste or occasion.
In this article, we’ll share some of the most mouth-watering pasta recipe ideas from classic carbonara to innovative vegan twists.
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
Classic Spaghetti Carbonara is a traditional Italian pasta dish that boasts a rich and creamy sauce made from eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper. This comforting meal is simple yet indulgent, highlighting the savory flavors of the ingredients. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, it’s a timeless recipe everyone should know.
1. Cook spaghetti in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente, according to package instructions. 2. Meanwhile, in a skillet, cook diced pancetta over medium heat until crispy, then remove from heat. 3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and grated Pecorino Romano cheese until well combined. 4. Once the spaghetti is cooked, reserve some pasta water, then drain the pasta and add it directly to the skillet with pancetta. 5. Quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta while tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed for consistency. 6. Season with freshly cracked black pepper and serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Penne Arrabbiata with Garlic and Chili
Penne Arrabbiata with Garlic and Chili is a classic Italian pasta dish known for its bold flavors and simplicity. The combination of al dente penne, spicy red chili, and aromatic garlic creates a satisfying meal that warms the soul. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish can easily be customized to taste with extra herbs or a sprinkle of cheese.
1. Cook 400g of penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. 3. Add 1-2 chopped red chili peppers (adjust to your spice preference) and cook for another minute. 4. Stir in a can of crushed tomatoes (400g), salt, and pepper, and let simmer for 10 minutes. 5. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing until well coated. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Fettuccine Alfredo with Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Fettuccine Alfredo with Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a classic Italian dish that combines silky pasta with a rich, buttery sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing guests with a taste of tradition. The creamy texture and savory flavor make it a beloved favorite among pasta lovers.
1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. In a large skillet, melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. 3. Add 1 cup of heavy cream to the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 4. Stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and smooth. 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 6. Add the cooked fettuccine to the sauce and toss until well coated. 7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired.
Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Pesto Pasta with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the earthy taste of basil pesto with the freshness of spinach and the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. With its delightful combination of ingredients, it promises to satisfy your pasta cravings and impress your guests.
1. Cook your choice of pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. 3. Add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. 4. Stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes. 5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, then mix in basil pesto until everything is well combined and heated through. 6. Serve warm, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of black pepper.
Lasagna with Ricotta and Ground Beef
Lasagna with Ricotta and Ground Beef is a classic Italian dish that layers rich flavors with creamy textures. This hearty meal combines tender pasta sheets, savory ground beef, and a smooth ricotta cheese mixture, all baked to golden perfection. Perfect for family gatherings, it serves as a comforting and satisfying option that pleases both young and old alike.
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a large skillet, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned, then drain the fat. 3. Stir in 1 jar of marinara sauce and let simmer for about 10 minutes. 4. In a separate bowl, combine 15 ounces of ricotta cheese, 1 egg, and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth. 5. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions; drain. 6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of meat sauce on the bottom. 7. Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half of the ricotta mixture, and a third of the meat sauce. 8. Repeat the layers, finishing with noodles and the remaining meat sauce on top. 9. Sprinkle with 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese. 10. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes until bubbly. 11. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Linguine Vongole with Clams and White Wine
Linguine Vongole is a classic Italian dish that showcases the delicate flavors of fresh clams combined with the richness of white wine. This simple yet elegant pasta recipe highlights the natural sweetness of the clams, enhanced by garlic, parsley, and a hint of red pepper flakes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, Linguine Vongole is a delightful seafood dish that is sure to impress.
1. Start by cleaning the clams under cold water, scrubbing the shells to remove any sand or grit. 2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the linguine according to package instructions until al dente. 3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat; add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant. 4. Add the cleaned clams and pour in the white wine, covering the skillet to allow the clams to steam open for about 5-7 minutes. 5. Once the clams have opened, discard any that remain closed and add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to combine all the ingredients. 6. Finish with chopped parsley and a drizzle of extra olive oil before serving.
Macaroni and Cheese with Three Cheeses
Macaroni and Cheese with Three Cheeses is a creamy and decadent dish that brings comfort food to a new level. This classic recipe combines the sharpness of cheddar, the nuttiness of Gruyère, and the creaminess of mozzarella for an irresistible blend of flavors. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a side at gatherings, this macaroni and cheese is sure to please any cheese lover.
Ingredients: – 8 oz elbow macaroni – 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese – 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese – 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – 1/4 cup unsalted butter – 1/4 cup all-purpose flour – 2 cups milk – Salt and pepper to taste – 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional) Instructions: 1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). 2. Cook the elbow macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. 3. In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk continuously for about 2 minutes to create a roux. 4. Gradually add the milk while whisking, and cook until the mixture thickens, about 5-7 minutes. 5. Remove from heat and stir in the cheddar, Gruyère, and mozzarella until melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, and paprika if desired. 6. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring all pasta is well coated. 7. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top. 8. Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Macaroni and Cheese with Three Cheeses!
Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage
Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe and Sausage is a deliciously hearty dish that showcases the unique texture of the pasta and the earthy flavors of the greens. The combination of juicy sausage and slightly bitter broccoli rabe creates a perfect balance, making it a satisfying meal. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor, ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.
1. Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the orecchiette according to the package instructions. 2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. 3. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes to the skillet, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. 4. Stir in the chopped broccoli rabe and a splash of the pasta cooking water; cover and cook until the greens are tender. 5. Once the pasta is done, drain it and add it directly to the skillet, tossing everything together. 6. Season with salt, pepper, and grated Parmesan cheese, then serve hot.
Ravioli in Tomato Basil Sauce
Ravioli in Tomato Basil Sauce is a delightful Italian dish that combines tender pasta pockets filled with cheese or meat with a rich and tangy sauce. The freshness of basil complements the sweetness of tomatoes, creating a vibrant flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying. This dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, bringing the taste of Italy right to your table.
1. Start by making the ravioli dough: combine flour and eggs, knead until smooth, and let rest for 30 minutes. 2. Roll out the dough thinly and cut into squares. 3. For the filling, mix ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl. 4. Place a teaspoon of filling on each dough square, and fold over to seal, crimping the edges. 5. Boil a pot of salted water and cook ravioli until they float, about 2-3 minutes. 6. Meanwhile, prepare the tomato basil sauce by sautéing garlic in olive oil, adding canned tomatoes, salt, and fresh basil, then simmer for 15 minutes. 7. Drain the ravioli and toss them with the sauce. 8. Serve hot, garnished with extra basil and grated Parmesan.
Cacio E Pepe with Pecorino Romano and Black Pepper
Cacio e Pepe is a classic Roman pasta dish that highlights the simplicity and bold flavors of Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly cracked black pepper. Its name, which translates to ‘cheese and pepper’, perfectly encapsulates the essence of this beloved recipe, requiring only a handful of ingredients. The creamy sauce forms when the cheese melts and combines with the starchy pasta water, creating a silky coating that clings delightfully to each strand of pasta.
1. Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add your choice of pasta, traditionally spaghetti or tonnarelli, and cook until al dente. 2. In a separate pan, toast freshly cracked black pepper over medium heat until fragrant. 3. Reserve a cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta, adding it directly to the peppered pan. 4. Remove the pan from heat and add grated Pecorino Romano cheese, mixing a small amount of the reserved pasta water to help the cheese melt and create a creamy sauce. 5. Continue to toss until the pasta is well coated, adding more pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency. 6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Pecorino Romano and a sprinkle of black pepper.
