19 Pasta Recipes for Making “What’s for Dinner” an Exciting Question

Figuring out what to make doesn’t have to feel like a pop quiz when you’ve got 19 solid pasta options waiting in the wings. Some are fast, some take their time, but all of them make “What’s for dinner?” feel less like a trap. There’s something about a good pasta dish that makes the whole kitchen seem more organized than it really is.

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

If you’re aiming to impress with something both simple and unexpected, look no further. Packed with flavor, this dish doesn’t skimp on the creamy texture or the bold taste even without the dairy. Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta might just become your new go-to for meatless Mondays or any day when you’re craving a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Morel Mushroom Pasta

When mushrooms are the star of the show, you know it’s going to be good. This dish isn’t your ordinary mushroom fare; it upgrades a humble ingredient to new heights. Morel Mushroom Pasta brings out the rich, earthy flavors of these prized fungi. Perfect for a cozy evening in, it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create a memorable meal.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Best Lemon Pasta

Sometimes, all it takes is a hint of citrus to turn an ordinary dish into something extraordinary. This is where Best Lemon Pasta comes into play, blending the freshness of lemon with the comfort of pasta. It’s light yet fulfilling, making it ideal for those nights when you want a quick dish that doesn’t feel too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Tortellini Soup

On chilly days, nothing beats a bowl of hot soup. But not just any soup – Tortellini Soup combines the heartiness of traditional soups with the fulfilling bite of pasta. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s both warming and invigorating. Plus, it’s versatile enough to throw in whatever veggies you have lying around.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup

Pasta alla Norma

For those who relish the fresh flavors of Italian cooking, Pasta alla Norma is a classic dish that never disappoints. It’s a beautiful blend of textures and tastes, showcasing the simplicity and depth of Mediterranean cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just cooking for one, it’s a dish that speaks of care and tradition.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Cacio e Pepe

Seeking comfort in a bowl? Cacio e Pepe is as comforting and straightforward as pasta dishes come. With just a few ingredients, it offers a taste experience that’s both rich and remarkably nuanced. Perfect for those evenings when you crave something fulfilling but aren’t up for a kitchen marathon.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Pasta Primavera

If you’re looking to add more veggies to your diet in a way that’s both easy and delicious, Pasta Primavera is your ticket. This vibrant dish combines a plethora of vegetables with pasta in a way that’s both light and filling. It’s a celebration of spring, but honestly, it’s so good you’ll want to make it all year round.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Primavera

Caprese Pasta Salad

When salad meets pasta, you get the best of both worlds. Caprese Pasta Salad is a testament to this, marrying the freshness of a salad with the heartiness of pasta. Ideal for picnics, potlucks, or a sunny day meal, this dish is a crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to toss together as it is delicious. A nod to Italian flavors, it’s a surefire way to bring a taste of Italy to any table.
Get the Recipe: Caprese Pasta Salad

Spaghetti Marinara

A staple in many households, there’s a reason Spaghetti Marinara has stood the test of time. It epitomizes the magic that happens when simple ingredients are cooked with care. Perfect for any day of the week, it’s as fitting for a casual family dinner as it is for a more intimate occasion.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Marinara

Cheese Ravioli

For those who believe cheese makes everything better, Cheese Ravioli is a dream come true. This dish serves up comfort in every bite, combining the creamy texture of cheese with tender pasta. Whether served with a classic sauce or just a drizzle of olive oil, it’s versatile and undeniably fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

There’s lasagna, and then there’s Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna – a variation that brings a touch of elegance to a familiar favorite. Layered with flavor, it’s a dish that feels both special and homely. Whether you’re looking for a show-stopping main for your next gathering or just an indulgent weekend dinner, this recipe delivers.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Ravioli Casserole

If you can’t decide between ravioli and casserole, why not enjoy both? Ravioli Casserole combines the best of both worlds, offering a comforting and filling meal that’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers. It’s a creative take on traditional pasta that’s both fun to make and to eat.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Tuscan Pasta

When you crave the flavors of Italy but can’t hop on a plane, Tuscan Pasta has got you covered. This dish is a celebration of rustic Italian cooking, bringing together hearty flavors in a way that’s both fulfilling and soul-warming. Ideal for a romantic dinner or a family meal, it’s a reminder of the power of good food to transport us.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan Pasta

Mac and Cheese

Few dishes can claim the universal appeal of Mac and Cheese. It’s the ultimate comfort food, beloved by all ages for its creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether baked to perfection with a crispy topping or made stovetop for a quick and comforting meal, it’s versatile and always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Penne Alla Vodka

If you’re after something that feels fancy without the fuss, Penne Alla Vodka is your hero. This dish brings a little indulgence to your pasta routine, with a sauce that’s both comforting and just a tad luxurious. It’s perfect for date night at home or any time you want to treat yourself. Despite its sophisticated flavors, it’s surprisingly easy to make.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Minestrone Soup

On days when only soup will do, Minestrone Soup offers a hearty, vegetable-packed option that satisfies. It’s a colorful medley of flavors and textures, making each spoonful a delight. Versatile and nourishing, it’s perfect for using up whatever veggies you have on hand. This Italian classic is more than just a soup; it’s a bowlful of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Three Cheese Manicotti

Three Cheese Manicotti is here to take your pasta game to new heights. This dish is all about the creamy, cheesy filling wrapped in tender pasta shells. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to impress at any dinner party or family gathering. Not only is it delicious, but it also has that wow factor that comes from pulling off something that looks as good as it tastes.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Four Cheese Lasagna

For those who think you can never have too much cheese, Four Cheese Lasagna is like hitting the jackpot. This dish is a layer upon layer of cheesy goodness, guaranteed to satisfy even the most intense cheese cravings. It’s perfect for a cozy night in or a potluck dinner. With every bite, it offers a comforting hug that only a dish so generously laden with cheese can provide.
Get the Recipe: Four Cheese Lasagna

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Sometimes the simplest dishes have the most to say, and Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a prime example. With its garlic-infused oil and a hint of heat, it’s a minimalist masterpiece. This dish proves you don’t need a long list of ingredients to pack a punch. Ideal for a late-night snack or a quick dinner, it’s the essence of Italian cooking: simple ingredients, executed perfectly.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Aglio e Olio