20 Easy Pasta Dinners Everyone Will Love

Pasta night just got a major upgrade with this roundup of easy, flavorful recipes. From creamy, cheesy bakes to zesty lemon and garlic dishes, and hearty one-pot meals, there’s something for every craving. These pasta recipes are designed to be simple, satisfying, and packed with bold flavors that make weeknight dinners feel special. Whether you want a cozy baked dish, a quick skillet meal, or a fresh twist on classic pasta, this collection has you covered.

Salmon Scampi Pasta (Garlic Butter & Lemon)

Tender pasta is tossed with seared salmon and a garlic butter sauce. Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and depth. Parsley or herbs provide a fresh note. The result is rich, flavorful, and slightly tangy.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Scampi Pasta (Garlic Butter & Lemon)

Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese Pasta

Chicken, pasta, tomatoes, and mozzarella bake together on a single sheet pan. Basil and balsamic glaze add a fresh, tangy finish. The dish is cheesy, hearty, and colorful. Cleanup is simple and the flavors meld perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Chicken Caprese Pasta

Baked Ziti Pasta With White Alfredo Sauce

Pasta is combined with a creamy Alfredo sauce and baked until golden. Mozzarella and Parmesan create a gooey topping. The dish is rich and comforting. It’s a classic baked pasta recipe with a creamy twist.
Get the Recipe: Baked Ziti Pasta With White Alfredo Sauce

Caribbean Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken Recipe

Pasta is cooked with colorful bell peppers and jerk-seasoned chicken. A creamy coconut sauce adds richness. The dish is bold, vibrant, and slightly spicy. It captures Caribbean flavors in a comforting pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Caribbean Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken Recipe

Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Sun-dried tomatoes are blended into a flavorful sauce. Pasta absorbs the tangy, slightly sweet tomato flavor. Olive oil, garlic, and herbs enhance the richness. The dish is simple yet packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Slow Cooker Taco Pasta

Ground meat, pasta, and taco seasonings cook together in a slow cooker. Cheese and vegetables add richness and texture. The dish is hearty, cheesy, and full of Mexican-inspired flavor. It’s perfect for hands-off cooking.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Taco Pasta

Stuffed Rigatoni Pasta Pie

Rigatoni is filled with cheese and layered in a pie-style bake. Tomato sauce and melted cheese top the pasta. The dish is visually impressive and indulgent. It’s great for gatherings or special meals.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Rigatoni Pasta Pie

Steakhouse Pasta

Sliced steak is combined with pasta and a creamy sauce. Mushrooms, onions, or garlic enhance the savory flavors. The dish is rich, hearty, and satisfying. It delivers steakhouse flavors in a comforting pasta dish.
Get the Recipe: Steakhouse Pasta

Pasta e Piselli

A classic Italian dish featuring pasta and peas in a light broth. Onions and herbs add aroma and flavor. It’s simple, fresh, and comforting. The pasta absorbs the flavors of the peas and seasonings.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Creamy Lemon Pasta

A bright, creamy sauce coats tender pasta. Lemon juice and zest add freshness and tang. Parmesan cheese and butter add richness. The dish is light, flavorful, and elegant.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Lemon Pasta

Instant Pot Taco Pasta

Ground beef or chicken is cooked with pasta, tomatoes, and taco seasoning in the Instant Pot. The pasta absorbs all the bold flavors. Cheese and vegetables are added for texture. It’s a quick, hands-off, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Taco Pasta

Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Sautéed leeks and mushrooms are combined with pasta in a light cream or garlic sauce. Fresh herbs enhance the earthy flavors. The dish is hearty yet elegant. It balances rich and mild flavors beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Instant Pot Copycat Cheesecake Factory Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Tender chicken and pasta are coated in a smoky, spicy chipotle sauce. Creamy cheese adds richness. The dish has a bold flavor profile with a hint of heat. It’s an indulgent, restaurant-style pasta recreated at home.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Copycat Cheesecake Factory Spicy Chipotle Chicken Pasta

Instant Pot Sausage Pasta: Delicious One-Pot Meal

Italian sausage, pasta, and sauce cook together in one pot. Bell peppers or onions add flavor and texture. The result is a hearty, flavorful dish with minimal cleanup. It’s a filling and easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Sausage Pasta: Delicious One-Pot Meal

Lemon Basil Pasta (with Chicken)

Juicy chicken and pasta are tossed in a bright lemon and basil sauce. Olive oil and Parmesan enhance the flavor. The dish is fresh, zesty, and slightly creamy. It’s simple yet packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Basil Pasta (with Chicken)

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Pasta is baked with spicy buffalo chicken and creamy cheese. The dish balances heat and richness. Ranch or blue cheese dressing can be drizzled on top. It’s bold, hearty, and perfect for comfort food cravings.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Shrimp is cooked in a spicy Cajun cream sauce with pasta. Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and texture. The dish is rich, zesty, and slightly smoky. It’s full of flavor and ready in one pan.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Shrimp Pasta

Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Protein-rich lentil pasta is combined with sautéed greens and garlic. Olive oil and lemon juice enhance the flavors. The dish is simple, earthy, and satisfying. It’s a lighter, yet hearty pasta option.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Baked Stuffed Shell Pasta

Large pasta shells are stuffed with cheese and herbs, then baked in tomato or cream sauce. The melted cheese creates a gooey, indulgent center. The dish is hearty, comforting, and visually appealing.
Get the Recipe: Baked Stuffed Shell Pasta

One Pot French Onion Pasta

Caramelized onions and pasta cook together in a savory broth. Cheese and herbs create a rich topping. The dish combines sweet, savory, and creamy flavors. It’s a comforting, easy one-pot meal with French-inspired taste.
Get the Recipe: One Pot French Onion Pasta