17 Pasta Recipes To Make “What’S For Dinner” The Best Question Ever

Some dinners feel like a chore, but these 17 pasta recipes turn the question into the best part of the day. Whether it’s a quick fix or a meal worth lingering over, they make dinner something to look forward to. There’s no guesswork, no stress—just solid, crowd-pleasing meals that do the job right. If pasta night wasn’t already a regular thing, it’s about to be.

A casserole dish with a slice of cheese on it.
Four Cheese Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who doesn’t love a good surprise? Inside each pocket of Cheese Ravioli, you’ll find a generous amount of creamy cheese waiting to be discovered. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something comforting yet simple. Serve it up hot for a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Earthy and rich, Morel Mushroom Pasta brings the forest to your fork. If you like mushrooms, this one’s a real find, featuring the distinct taste of morels that are sure to be a topic of conversation. Perfect for a fancy dinner without the fuss, pair it with a simple side to let the flavors stand out. Enjoy a dish that brings a taste of the wild to your dining routine.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

It’s hard to beat a classic, especially when it comes to comfort food. Who can resist the creamy, cheesy goodness of Mac and Cheese? This dish is a favorite for people of all ages; it works just as well for a family dinner as it does for a quiet meal alone. Whether you bake it until bubbly and golden or prefer it stove-top velvety, it’s always a winner.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re looking for hearty fare to feed a crowd, look no further than Ravioli Casserole. This dish layers ravioli with sauce and cheese, baked to bubbly perfection. It’s as easy-going as it is tasty, perfect for potlucks or family dinners. Just pop it in the oven and let the magic happen, freeing you to enjoy the company.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Three Cheese Manicotti

A plate of stuffed cannelloni topped with tomato sauce, grated cheese, and fresh basil.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those who think one cheese is not enough, Three Cheese Manicotti steps up the game. This dish wraps up ricotta, mozzarella, and parmesan in tender pasta shells, offering a rich and fulfilling flavor experience. It’s perfect for a weekend meal that will impress guests or provide comfort during a quiet dinner at home. Gather around the table and dig in!
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Pasta Primavera

A colorful Pasta Primavera salad with cherry tomatoes, asparagus, peas, and spinach in a blue bowl.
Pasta Primavera. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh and light, Pasta Primavera is all about bringing out the flavors of the garden. This dish celebrates the bounty of vegetables, all tossed with pasta in a light sauce. It’s perfect for those who want a meal that’s both nutritious and wonderful. Gather your favorite veggies and get ready for a dish that’s both colorful and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Best Lemon Pasta

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

Tangy and bright, Best Lemon Pasta offers a refreshing twist on the usual pasta night. With just the right touch of lemon, this dish wakes up your palate without overpowering it. It’s ideal for those evenings when you crave something different from the usual fare. So why not give your dinner routine a citrusy spark?
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Tuscan Pasta

A close-up of a plate of Creamy Tuscan Pasta topped with a rich white sauce, grated cheese, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Tuscan Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Escape to Italy with a bowl of Tuscan Pasta. This dish combines simple ingredients that speak volumes on flavor, inspired by the rustic, hearty cuisine of Tuscany. It’s perfect for when you want a meal that is both comforting and robust. Serve it up for a little Italian escapade right at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sometimes simplicity wins, and Cacio e Pepe proves just that. This classic dish relies on the richness of cheese and the bite of black pepper to create a comforting yet sophisticated flavor with just a few ingredients. It’s ideal for a late-night meal or a quick lunch. Sit back and savor each twirl of pasta coated in this creamy sauce.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Tortellini Soup

A close-up of creamy tortellini with spinach and fresh basil leaves.
Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Imagine a chilly evening made cozy with a steaming bowl of Tortellini Soup. This dish combines stuffed pasta with a savory broth, bringing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. It’s great for soothing your soul after a long day. Plus, it’s easy to make, ensuring you spend more time relaxing and less time cooking.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese pasta salad in a bowl with fresh tomatoes by the side.
Caprese Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Brighten up your meal with the vibrant flavors of Caprese Pasta Salad. This dish marries pasta with the classic caprese elements of tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side at your next barbecue. Enjoy the fresh, tangy flavors that make every bite a little celebration.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bring a little decadence to dinner with Penne Alla Vodka. This dish offers pasta coated in a rich, tomato-based vodka sauce, adding a touch of luxury to your meal. It’s perfect for nights when you want to indulge in something a bit more special. Serve it with a sprinkle of cheese, and watch everyone ask for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Spaghetti Marinara

Spaghetti marinara in a bowl with fresh basil on top..
Spaghetti Marinara. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite into simplicity with a plate of Spaghetti Marinara. This dish celebrates the classic marriage of spaghetti and a vibrant tomato sauce. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the basics done beautifully. Whether for a quick dinner or entertaining guests, it’s sure to please.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Discover a Sicilian classic with Pasta alla Norma. This dish blends rich tomato sauce with roasted eggplant, all tossed with pasta for a meal that’s full of flavor and tradition. It’s perfect for an evening where you crave something heartier yet meat-free. Transform your dinner into a Sicilian soirée with just a plate and fork.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

When you need a soup that feels like a meal, Minestrone Soup steps up to the plate. This robust soup is packed with vegetables and pasta, simmered in a savory broth. It’s perfect for any day that requires a bit of extra comfort. Ladle it into bowls, and watch it disappear—it’s that good!
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

A delicious and simple pasta recipe topped with parmesan cheese and parsley.
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For garlic lovers, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a dream come true. This dish features spaghetti tossed with garlic and oil, delivering bold flavors in each bite. It’s perfect for a quick, flavorful meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whip this up in minutes and enjoy a dish that feels gourmet without the fuss.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Four Cheese Lasagna

A casserole dish with a slice of cheese on it.
Four Cheese Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Embrace the layers of flavor with Four Cheese Lasagna. This dish layers pasta with four different cheeses, each adding its unique touch to this beloved classic. It’s ideal for a comforting meal that’s sure to please a crowd. Gather around the table for slices of gooey, cheesy goodness that will keep you coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Lasagna

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *