22 Pasta Recipes for 2024
Explore a variety of pasta dishes, each with its own unique flair and flavor. Whether you’re a fan of classic Italian dishes or looking for something new and exciting, these recipes are sure to delight your palate.
1. Classic Spaghetti Carbonara
This traditional Italian dish is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients creating extraordinary flavors. The key to a perfect Carbonara lies in its creamy sauce, achieved by gently cooking eggs with the residual heat of the pasta, melding seamlessly with finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese. Crisp pancetta adds a salty, savory dimension, while a generous twist of black pepper introduces a subtle heat. This dish is a celebration of rustic Italian cooking, bringing the warmth of a Roman kitchen to your dining table.
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti
- Eggs
- Pecorino Romano cheese
- Pancetta
- Black pepper
Recipe
2. Vegan Avocado Pesto Pasta
A delightful twist on traditional pesto, this vegan version uses ripe avocados for a creamy, heart-healthy base. Blended with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and a splash of lemon juice, the sauce is a vibrant green elixir that clings perfectly to your choice of pasta. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate more plant-based dishes into your diet without sacrificing flavor or texture. This dish is not only visually appealing but also packed with nutrients and flavors that are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice
- Ripe avocados
- Fresh basil leaves
- Garlic cloves
- Pine nuts
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
3. Shrimp Scampi Linguine
Shrimp Scampi Linguine is a seafood lover’s dream. The dish features succulent shrimp sautéed in a sauce made from butter, garlic, lemon juice, and white wine, creating a harmony of flavors that complement the delicate linguine. The key to this dish is not to overcook the shrimp, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. Garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes, this pasta is both visually appealing and mouth-wateringly delicious, perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- Linguine
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Butter
- Garlic cloves
- Lemon juice
- White wine
- Fresh parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
4. Mushroom and Spinach Fettuccine Alfredo
This rich and creamy Alfredo sauce, made with heavy cream, butter, and Parmesan cheese, serves as the perfect backdrop for sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms and the slight bitterness of the spinach balance the decadence of the sauce. Served over fettuccine, this dish is a luxurious take on the classic Alfredo, offering a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a decadent dinner.
Ingredients:
- Fettuccine
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Fresh spinach
- Heavy cream
- Butter
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic cloves
- Nutmeg
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
5. Butternut Squash Ravioli with Sage Butter
Handmade ravioli filled with a smooth, sweet butternut squash puree present a delightful autumnal dish. The sage butter sauce, lightly browned with a nutty aroma, complements the sweetness of the squash, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. Topped with grated Parmesan and toasted pine nuts, this dish is a celebration of fall flavors, offering a comforting and gourmet dining experience. It requires some effort to prepare but is undoubtedly worth it for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
- Ravioli dough
- Butternut squash
- Parmesan cheese
- Sage leaves
- Butter
- Pine nuts
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
6. Baked Ziti with Ricotta and Mozzarella
Baked Ziti is a comforting classic, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. This recipe layers al dente ziti pasta with rich ricotta cheese, hearty marinara sauce, and stretchy mozzarella, creating a dish that’s both creamy and satisfying. The oven baking melds the flavors beautifully and creates a golden, cheesy crust that’s irresistible. This dish is a go-to for family dinners, potlucks, or whenever you’re in the mood for a hearty, cheesy pasta bake.
Ingredients:
- Ziti pasta
- Ricotta cheese
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Marinara sauce
- Parmesan cheese
- Egg
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Italian seasoning
Recipe
7. Spicy Sausage and Peppers Penne
This robust and flavorful pasta dish combines spicy Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a rich tomato sauce. The penne pasta perfectly catches the sauce and bits of sausage, making each bite satisfying. The key to this dish is the balance of flavors—the heat from the sausage, the sweetness of the peppers, and the acidity of the tomato sauce. It’s a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but flavorful enough for entertaining guests.
Ingredients:
- Penne pasta
- Italian sausage, spicy
- Bell peppers, assorted colors
- Onion
- Garlic cloves
- Marinara sauce
- Olive oil
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil leaves
Recipe
8. Creamy Salmon Tagliatelle
Creamy Salmon Tagliatelle is an elegant pasta dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. It features tender flakes of salmon in a creamy, dill-infused sauce. The tagliatelle noodles are ideal for holding onto the rich sauce, ensuring a perfect mix of salmon and creaminess in every forkful. This dish is not only delicious but also presents beautifully, making it perfect for a special dinner or a treat-yourself night.
Ingredients:
- Tagliatelle pasta
- Fresh salmon fillet
- Heavy cream
- White wine
- Fresh dill
- Lemon juice
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
9. Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
This vegetable-packed lasagna is a hearty and healthy take on the classic. Layers of lasagna noodles are interspersed with roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant, and creamy béchamel sauce. The roasting brings out the natural sweetness and flavors of the vegetables, making the dish rich in taste and texture. It’s a great way to enjoy a meatless meal without compromising on flavor or satisfaction.
Ingredients:
- Lasagna noodles
- Zucchini
- Bell peppers
- Eggplant
- Onion
- Garlic cloves
- Béchamel sauce (butter, flour, milk, nutmeg)
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh basil leaves
Recipe
10. Lobster Mac and Cheese
Elevate your mac and cheese with this luxurious lobster version. Tender chunks of lobster meat are folded into a creamy cheese sauce and mixed with macaroni. The dish is then topped with a crunchy breadcrumb topping and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s the perfect blend of comfort food and elegance, making it ideal for a special occasion or when you want to indulge in something extra decadent.
Ingredients:
- Macaroni pasta
- Lobster meat, cooked
- Cheddar cheese
- Gruyère cheese
- Heavy cream
- Butter
- Flour
- Breadcrumbs
- Garlic powder
- Mustard powder
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
11. Caprese Pasta Salad
This refreshing pasta salad is a summer favorite, combining the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with pasta. It features juicy cherry tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all tossed with a tangy balsamic glaze and olive oil. The result is a light, yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or as a side dish on warm evenings.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice (short pasta like penne or fusilli works well)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Balsamic glaze
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
12. Pumpkin and Sage Gnocchi
Homemade gnocchi gets a seasonal twist with the addition of pumpkin, creating a soft, pillowy texture with a subtle sweetness. Tossed in a simple sage butter sauce, these gnocchi offer a delightful blend of autumnal flavors. The crispy sage leaves not only add a burst of flavor but also a pleasing crunch that contrasts the softness of the gnocchi.
Ingredients:
- Gnocchi dough (potato, pumpkin puree, flour)
- Butter
- Fresh sage leaves
- Parmesan cheese
- Nutmeg
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
13. Garlic Butter Orzo with Asparagus
This elegant yet easy dish features orzo, a rice-shaped pasta, cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce and mixed with tender asparagus. It’s a versatile side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats or can be enjoyed on its own for a light meal. The key to this recipe is to not overcook the orzo or asparagus, ensuring a perfect texture.
Ingredients:
- Orzo pasta
- Asparagus, trimmed and cut into pieces
- Butter
- Garlic cloves, minced
- Parmesan cheese
- Lemon zest
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
14. Thai Peanut Spaghetti Squash
A healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional pasta, this dish uses spaghetti squash as a base, tossed in a rich Thai-inspired peanut sauce. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of Thai cuisine in a lighter, vegetable-forward dish. Add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a protein boost, and top with fresh cilantro and crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
- Spaghetti squash
- Peanut butter
- Soy sauce
- Lime juice
- Brown sugar
- Garlic clove
- Ginger
- Red pepper flakes
- Optional protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu)
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed peanuts
Recipe
15. Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Spicy and hearty, this pasta dish combines tender strips of Cajun-seasoned chicken with a creamy sauce and bell peppers. The Cajun spice mix adds a kick of heat and flavor, making this dish a crowd-pleaser. Serve it over your favorite pasta, and enjoy a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice
- Chicken breast, sliced
- Cajun seasoning
- Bell peppers, sliced
- Onion, sliced
- Heavy cream
- Parmesan cheese
- Garlic clove
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
16. Beetroot and Goat Cheese Fusilli
This visually stunning dish combines the earthy sweetness of roasted beetroot with the tangy creaminess of goat cheese. Fusilli pasta is ideal for holding onto the rich, vibrant sauce, and the addition of toasted walnuts adds a delightful crunch. It’s a perfect dish for those who enjoy a combination of sweet and savory flavors in their pasta.
Ingredients:
- Fusilli pasta
- Beetroot, roasted and pureed
- Goat cheese
- Walnuts, toasted
- Garlic clove
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Recipe
17. Pasta Primavera with Lemon Garlic Sauce
This light and refreshing dish is packed with a variety of spring vegetables, making it both colorful and nutritious. The lemon garlic sauce is light yet flavorful, coating the pasta and vegetables in a zesty, aromatic glaze. It’s a versatile recipe where you can use any combination of seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice
- Assorted spring vegetables (e.g., asparagus, peas, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes)
- Lemon juice and zest
- Garlic cloves
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh herbs (e.g., basil or parsley)
Recipe
18. Chorizo and Chickpea Rigatoni
This hearty pasta dish is infused with the rich, smoky flavors of chorizo and the satisfying texture of chickpeas. The tomato-based sauce complements the spiciness of the chorizo, while the rigatoni pasta provides a perfect vessel for the chunky sauce. It’s a robust and flavorful dish ideal for a comforting dinner.
Ingredients:
- Rigatoni pasta
- Chorizo sausage, sliced
- Chickpeas, cooked
- Tomato sauce
- Onion
- Garlic clove
- Olive oil
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh parsley
Recipe
19. Truffle Oil and Mushroom Pappardelle
Elegant and rich, this dish features wide ribbons of pappardelle pasta coated in a luxurious mushroom sauce, elevated with a drizzle of truffle oil. The earthy mushrooms and fragrant truffle oil create a sophisticated flavor profile, making this dish perfect for a special occasion or an indulgent weekend dinner.
Ingredients:
- Pappardelle pasta
- Mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake, portobello)
- Truffle oil
- Garlic clove
- Heavy cream or crème fraîche
- Parmesan cheese
- Butter
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh thyme
Recipe
20. Broccoli and Sun-Dried Tomato Orecchiette
This vibrant and healthy pasta dish combines the crunch of broccoli with the intense flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. Orecchiette pasta, with its small, ear-like shape, is perfect for catching bits of the vegetables and sauce. The dish is finished with garlic and a sprinkle of Parmesan, creating a simple yet flavorful meal that’s easy to prepare and always satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Orecchiette pasta
- Broccoli florets
- Sun-dried tomatoes in oil, chopped
- Garlic clove
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
21. Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Peas
This dish is a celebration of spring flavors. The creamy ricotta cheese forms a light sauce that is beautifully complemented by the zestiness of lemon and the sweetness of green peas. It’s a quick, refreshing meal that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner. The simplicity of the ingredients allows each flavor to shine through, creating a harmonious and satisfying dish.
Ingredients:
- Pasta of choice (short pasta like penne or fusilli works well)
- Ricotta cheese
- Fresh or frozen green peas
- Lemon zest and juice
- Garlic clove
- Olive oil
- Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper
- Fresh mint or basil for garnish
Recipe
22. Smoked Salmon and Dill Farfalle
This elegant pasta dish combines the delicate flavor of smoked salmon with the aromatic freshness of dill. Farfalle, with its bowtie shape, is a playful pasta that pairs well with the creamy sauce and flaky salmon. It’s a dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious, perfect for a special occasion or a sophisticated dinner. The combination of salmon and dill is a classic, and when mixed with pasta, it creates a meal that’s both hearty and refined.
Ingredients:
- Farfalle pasta
- Smoked salmon, sliced into strips
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Heavy cream or crème fraîche
- Lemon juice
- Capers
- Red onion, thinly sliced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Recipe
These 22 pasta recipes offer a delightful journey through various flavors and styles, showcasing the versatility of pasta in culinary arts. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic or adventurous, these recipes provide a plethora of options to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy your pasta adventure!
