Pasta lovers, rejoice! There’s nothing quite like a delicious plate of noodles to satisfy your cravings. But let’s face it – the same old spaghetti and meatballs can get repetitive after a while. That’s why we’ve gathered our favorite pasta recipes that are anything but ordinary. From creamy sauces to bold flavors and international twists, these 20 creative pasta dishes will take you on a culinary journey around the world.
In this article, we’ll be exploring a diverse range of recipes that showcase the versatility of pasta. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or rich and indulgent, there’s something here for everyone. So grab your fork and let’s dig in!
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta
Lemon Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta: A bright and flavorful seafood pasta dish that combines succulent shrimp with a zesty lemon garlic butter sauce, all tossed with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g. linguine, fettuccine)
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium-low and add lemon juice. Simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Combine reserved pasta water and lemon butter mixture. Stir in cooked shrimp.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the shrimp and sauce until well coated. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley (if using).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Creamy Avocado Pesto Pasta
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the vibrant flavor of pesto, all on a bed of al dente pasta. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly made basil pesto
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, pesto, garlic, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Add the blended mixture to the reserved pasta water and stir until well combined.
4. Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss until coated. If needed, add more pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
5. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley leaves. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Sausage and Kale Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the spicy kick of Italian sausage with the earthy flavor of kale, making it a perfect weeknight meal. With its quick cooking time, you can have this satisfying dinner on the table in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and discarded
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Red pepper flakes, optional (for extra heat)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in the kale, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Cook until the kale has wilted and the liquid has reduced slightly.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and sausage mixture. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Spinach Pasta
This sun-kissed pasta dish combines the savory flavors of sun-dried tomatoes with the freshness of wilted spinach, all wrapped up in a light and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in butter until melted, then add spinach leaves. Cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta, tomato-spinach mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta
This pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, creating a flavorful and creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers: Place them on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until skin is blistered.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. Sauté garlic in a pan with a little olive oil. Add crumbled goat cheese and stir until melted.
5. Chop roasted peppers into strips and add to the pan with garlic and goat cheese. Toss to combine.
6. Combine cooked pasta, pepper-garlic-cheese mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun Chicken Alfredo Pasta
Get ready to spice up your pasta game with this bold twist on the classic Alfredo dish! This recipe combines the rich flavors of Cajun seasoning, juicy chicken, and creamy sauce for a mouthwatering meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. fettuccine pasta
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium; add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce in a large serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Mushroom Pasta
A rich and savory pasta dish that combines the sweetness of caramelized onions with the earthiness of mushrooms, all wrapped up in a creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low. Add onions and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic to the skillet; cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
4. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce; toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Cream Pasta
Pumpkin Sage Cream Pasta
A creamy and comforting fall-inspired pasta dish that combines the flavors of roasted pumpkin, sage, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 small pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss pumpkin cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté garlic in remaining 1 tbsp olive oil until fragrant.
4. Add roasted pumpkin, heavy cream, and dried sage to the skillet. Stir until combined and heated through.
5. Combine cooked pasta, pumpkin mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pesto Zucchini Noodle Pasta
This refreshing summer pasta dish combines the flavors of basil pesto, zucchini noodles, and cherry tomatoes for a quick and easy meal. Perfect for a light dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz zucchini noodles
– 1/4 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook zucchini noodles according to package instructions until tender.
2. In a medium bowl, combine pesto sauce and cherry tomatoes. Stir to combine.
3. Drain cooked zucchini noodles and add them to the bowl with the pesto mixture. Toss to combine.
4. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Pasta
Experience the harmonious blend of Asian spices and Italian pasta with this easy-to-make Thai Peanut Noodle Pasta recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– 2 tbsp. peanut butter
– 2 tbsp. soy sauce
– 2 tbsp. honey
– 1 tsp. grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet or wok, combine peanut butter, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until smooth.
3. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the peanut sauce.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Pasta
Bacon and Brussels Sprouts Pasta Recipe
A savory pasta dish that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the earthy sweetness of Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 lb. Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the Brussels sprouts and garlic to the same skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the Brussels sprouts and stir to combine.
5. Combine cooked pasta, bacon, and Brussels sprouts mixture in a large bowl. Toss to combine, adding Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Shells
Get ready to satisfy your pasta cravings with this creamy and flavorful twist on the classic stuffed shells recipe! Tender jumbo pasta shells filled with a rich spinach and artichoke mixture will become an instant family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach leaves, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-artichoke mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and top with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lobster Mac and Cheese Pasta
This decadent recipe combines the richness of lobster meat with the comfort of creamy macaroni and cheese, perfect for a special occasion or indulgent treat.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups lobster meat (chopped)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to create a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked macaroni, lobster meat, and cheese sauce in a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (optional).
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tomato Basil Cream Pasta
This classic Italian-inspired dish combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, sweet basil, and rich cream to create a satisfying and flavorful pasta dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they release their juices and start to soften.
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine with the tomato mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in chopped basil leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the creamy tomato sauce. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan Asparagus Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the flavors of garlic, parmesan cheese, and tender asparagus, making it a perfect springtime meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying dinner in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add asparagus to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta, asparagus mixture, and parmesan cheese in a large serving bowl.
5. Stir in heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Olive and Feta Pasta
This hearty pasta dish is a flavorful blend of Mediterranean ingredients, featuring the bold flavors of olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated lemon zest (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add sliced olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Stir in crumbled feta cheese until melted and well combined with the olive mixture.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with olive-feta mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of parsley.
7. Serve hot, garnished with grated lemon zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Broccoli Cheddar Pasta Bake
This creamy pasta bake combines the goodness of broccoli, cheddar cheese, and penne pasta for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate pan, sauté broccoli in butter until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, broccoli mixture, and cheddar cheese.
5. Pour in milk and stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese (if desired).
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Curry Noodle Pasta
This creamy pasta dish combines the rich flavors of coconut and curry with tender noodles, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Combine cooked pasta, sauce, and salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Garlic and Walnut Pasta
Roasted Garlic and Walnut Pasta: A savory and aromatic pasta dish that combines the rich flavors of roasted garlic and toasted walnuts with perfectly cooked spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 heads of garlic, separated into individual cloves
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the garlic cloves with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 30-40 minutes, or until tender and caramelized.
3. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
4. In a large skillet, toast the walnuts over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and lightly browned.
5. Combine the roasted garlic, cooked spaghetti, walnut mixture, and Parmesan cheese in a serving bowl. Toss with reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Pasta
A refreshing summer pasta dish that combines the smoky flavor of salmon with the brightness of fresh dill. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add flaked salmon and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in chopped fresh dill and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1-2 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta with salmon mixture and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Looking for creative ways to spice up your pasta dishes? Look no further! This article features 20 innovative and delicious pasta recipes that are sure to impress. From classic combinations like Cajun Chicken Alfredo to more adventurous options like Thai Peanut Noodle Pasta, there’s something for everyone. With a range of flavors and ingredients, these unique pasta recipes will inspire you to try new things and elevate your cooking game.
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