15 Creative and Delicious Pasta Dishes to Elevate Your Meal Plan

Pasta lovers, we’ve got something exciting for you! Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing, rich and indulgent, or bright and citrusy, this roundup has it all. From quick weekday fixes to gourmet-inspired creations, these recipes are here to inspire your next delicious meal. Grab your favorite pasta shape and let’s get cooking!

Cheesy Leftover Taco Meat Pasta

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Transform taco night leftovers into a cheesy, comforting pasta dish. Think gooey melted cheese mixed with seasoned taco meat and tender pasta.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Leftover Taco Meat Pasta

Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Lemon pasta with spinach, feta and cherry tomatoes in a bowl. — Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy feta, fresh spinach, and a bright lemon dressing coat this pasta in layers of flavor. It’s a light, tangy option for any pasta lover.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Brussels Sprouts Pasta

A bowl of pasta with bacon and brussels sprouts. — Brussels Sprouts Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Pan-seared Brussels sprouts meet flavorful pasta in this hearty recipe. A sprinkle of parmesan takes it to the next level, adding a touch of richness.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Pasta

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

A serving of pasta topped with a seared scallops and a sage brown butter sauce. — Brown Butter Scallop Pasta. Photo credit: Renee Nicole’s Kitchen.

Decadent and elegant, this recipe features nutty brown butter, tender scallops, and pasta wrapped in a velvety sauce. A true treat for seafood lovers.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and creamy ranch dressing come together in this delightful pasta salad. It’s loaded with flavor in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad

Pasta with Eggplant

Roasted eggplant pairs beautifully with a rich tomato sauce to create a delightful and hearty pasta dish. Comfort food at its finest!
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Eggplant

One Pot French Onion Pasta

A plate of rigatoni pasta with shredded cheese and herbs, next to a fork on a white dish. An onion and parsley are in the background. — One Pot French Onion Pasta. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Everything you love about French onion soup—with a pasta twist! Sweet caramelized onions and melted cheese wrapped around tender noodles.
Get the Recipe: One Pot French Onion Pasta

Pasta Aglio Olio e Peperoncino

This classic Italian recipe keeps it simple but delicious with garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes. It’s a quick and flavorful fix for weeknight cravings.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Aglio Olio e Peperoncino

Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

A plate of orzo pasta topped with sliced grilled chicken, garnished with parsley and lemon. Nearby are bell peppers, lemons, and a bowl of grated cheese on a red patterned cloth. — Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta. Photo credit: Mama’s on a Budget.

Orzo pasta paired with tender chicken breast in a light, lemony sauce. Every bite is fresh and comforting in this easy-to-make dish.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Orzo Pasta

Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta

Baked palmini with feta in a light blue casserole. — Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta. Photo credit: Low Carb – No Carb.

A low-carb twist on a beloved classic! Palmini pasta combines with baked feta and cherry tomatoes for a creamy, satisfying meal.
Get the Recipe: Palmini Baked Fetta Pasta

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Inspired by elote, this pasta salad combines grilled corn, zesty cheese, and creamy dressing with tender pasta for a bold and flavorful dish.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Mushroom leek pasta kugel

A plate of pasta with mushrooms and sprigs of dill. — Mushroom leek pasta kugel. Photo credit: At the Immigrant’s Table.

A creamy, baked pasta filled with savory mushrooms and sweet leeks. The golden, crispy topping gives this classic kugel a wonderfully rich texture.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom leek pasta kugel

Broccoli and Tomato Pasta Salad

A colorful mix of tender pasta, roasted broccoli, and juicy tomatoes paired with a tangy dressing. It’s a bright and delicious option that’s as simple as it is satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli and Tomato Pasta Salad

Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken breast cut with pasta in the background. — Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta. Photo credit: .

A citrus-forward recipe starring chicken breast, capers, and a buttery lemon sauce tossed with pasta. A classic dish that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese. — Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

This dish packs a citrusy punch with a creamy twist. Light, zesty, and full of bold lemon flavor, it’s a fresh way to elevate your pasta game.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta