14 Pasta Recipes with Serious Italian Flavor
If you’re craving Italian-inspired pasta dishes, this list will have you twirling your fork in no time. From rich, creamy sauces to zesty lemon notes, there’s a flavor for every mood. You’ll find hearty classics, creative twists, and a few easy weeknight solutions. Each one brings something unique to the table while keeping that comforting pasta vibe alive.
Alfredo Steak Pasta
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Tender slices of steak are nestled into creamy Alfredo-coated pasta. The sauce clings to each bite, balancing richness with a hint of garlic. It’s a satisfying choice for meat and pasta lovers alike. Great for when you want something filling without a lot of fuss.
Get the Recipe: Alfredo Steak Pasta
Best Lemon Pasta
Bright and zesty, this pasta keeps things simple with a fresh citrus kick. A touch of cheese rounds it out without overpowering the lemon. It’s quick to pull together but still feels special. Works well on warm evenings or as a light dinner.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta
Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Hearty and packed with beans, pasta, and beef, this soup sticks close to the restaurant classic. The tomato broth carries Italian herbs that tie everything together. Each spoonful is full of cozy, familiar flavors. Serve with crusty bread to make it a meal.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup
This version brings the same comforting mix of pasta and beans in a tomato-rich base. It’s thick enough to be filling but still slurpable. The seasoning leans into garlic and oregano for an easy homemade feel. It’s a solid choice for soup night.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Easy Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Chilled pasta tossed with crisp vegetables and tangy dressing makes this one ready for gatherings. The flavor gets better as it sits, thanks to the zesty vinaigrette. It’s colorful, crunchy, and quick to prep. Ideal for potlucks or meal prep lunches.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cold Pasta Salad with Italian Dressing
Easy Pasta Puttanesca
Briny capers and olives meet tomatoes and garlic in this bold, fast-cooking dish. It’s a punchy, no-nonsense recipe with roots in southern Italy. No cheese needed, just simple pantry staples and strong flavor. Pairs well with a glass of red wine.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pasta Puttanesca
Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara
This one keeps it light on the carbs but still delivers classic marinara richness. The sauce is simmered with garlic and basil for depth. A smart choice when you want pasta vibes without traditional noodles. Toppings like parmesan or grilled meat work well here.
Get the Recipe: Italian Low Carb Pasta Marinara
Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta in One Pot
Everything cooks together, which means fewer dishes and more flavor. The sausage adds spice while bell peppers bring sweetness. Pasta absorbs the sauce as it simmers, tying everything together. It’s hearty and easy to clean up after.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage and Pepper Pasta in One Pot
Italian Sausage Pasta
This dish balances savory sausage with a tomato-based sauce that clings to each bite. Herbs like thyme and oregano give it that unmistakable Italian flair. The meat is browned to add a bit of depth and texture. Serve it as-is or with a sprinkle of cheese.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Pasta
Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta
Creamy without cream, this sauce is made from blended walnuts and garlic. It’s earthy, nutty, and coats pasta beautifully. The texture is rich, but not heavy. Great with short noodles that catch the sauce in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta
Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta
Shredded chicken and orzo come together in a light lemon-forward broth. It’s part soup, part pasta dish, with a cozy feel. Fresh herbs lift the flavor without overpowering the lemon. A nice balance between bright and filling.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta
Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta
This dish uses the sharpness of lemon and capers to cut through tender chicken and pasta. The sauce is light but flavorful, clinging gently to each noodle. It’s quick to make and full of personality. A solid choice for those who like a bit of tang.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta
Low Carb Pasta Carbonara
Swapping in low carb noodles still keeps that creamy, eggy carbonara taste intact. Bacon and cheese bring the richness, just like the original. It’s ready fast and sticks close to tradition. A good way to keep it classic without the usual pasta.
Get the Recipe: Low Carb Pasta Carbonara
White Wine Chicken Pasta
Chicken simmers in a light wine-based sauce that’s full of garlic and herbs. The wine gives it a nice acidity that balances the cream. Pasta picks up every drop, making each bite full of flavor. This one feels fancy but takes less time than it looks.
Get the Recipe: White Wine Chicken Pasta
