As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of pasta to lift your spirits. And what better way to do that than with some delicious, cozy winter pasta recipes? In this article, we’ll be sharing 19 mouthwatering options that are sure to become new favorites.
From creamy butternut squash pasta to spicy sausage and kale, and from garlic parmesan white wine pasta to roasted red pepper and goat cheese, each of these dishes is a perfect way to cozy up on a chilly winter evening. Whether you’re looking for something comforting and familiar or something new and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
So grab your apron, put on your favorite warm sweater, and let’s dive into the world of delicious winter pasta recipes!
Creamy Butternut Squash Pasta
This recipe combines the warmth of roasted butternut squash with the comfort of creamy pasta. Perfect for a cozy fall or winter evening, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine, or pappardelle)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the butternut squash for 45 minutes, or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Combine cooked pasta, roasted butternut squash, and creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Spicy Sausage and Kale Pasta
This hearty pasta dish combines the spicy kick of Italian sausage with the nutritious goodness of kale. A perfect one-pot meal for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups curly kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1 cup pasta (such as penne or rigatoni)
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened (about 3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in kale, crushed tomatoes, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until kale is tender.
5. Combine cooked pasta, sausage mixture, and reserved pasta water. Toss to combine and serve hot with Parmesan cheese on top (if desired).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Parmesan White Wine Pasta
Savor the flavors of Italy with this rich and creamy pasta dish, featuring garlic, parmesan cheese, and a hint of white wine. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp butter
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry or semi-sweet)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in white wine and chicken broth. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes or until reduced slightly.
4. Stir in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-parmesan sauce, and chopped parsley (if using). Toss until well coated.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta
This flavorful pasta dish combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of goat cheese, all wrapped up in a simple yet impressive package. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup (60g) olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz (225g) goat cheese, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers in a single layer on a baking sheet for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Add roasted red peppers to the skillet, breaking them apart with a spoon as they cook.
6. Combine cooked pasta, goat cheese, salt, and pepper in the skillet. Toss until well coated.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Experience the rich flavors of Tuscany with this hearty and satisfying pasta dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and tender chicken.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., penne, fusilli)
– 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 tsp. dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the tomato mixture.
6. Toss cooked pasta with the chicken and tomato mixture, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 20-25 minutes
Winter Vegetable Pasta Bake
Warm up on a chilly winter evening with this hearty pasta bake filled with roasted vegetables and gooey melted cheese. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy night in or a family dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 2 cups mixed winter vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and parsnips)
– 1 onion, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; set aside.
3. Toss vegetables, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, cheddar cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
6. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Beef Stroganoff Pasta
Savor the rich flavors of Russia with this classic Beef Stroganoff Pasta dish. Tender beef strips, sautéed mushrooms, and creamy sauce come together perfectly in a comforting and flavorful pasta meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 1 cup mushrooms (button or cremini), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 8 oz. pasta (fettuccine or linguine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add mushrooms and onion. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, flour, and broth to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens.
6. Add cooked beef back into the skillet and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Combine pasta, beef mixture, and chopped parsley (if using). Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin Sage Pasta with Crispy Pancetta
Savor the essence of fall with this comforting and flavorful pasta dish, where roasted pumpkin meets crispy pancetta and savory sage.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1 medium pumpkin, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 6 slices pancetta, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss pumpkin cubes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
3. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan and set aside.
5. Add garlic and sage to the same skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Combine cooked pasta, roasted pumpkin, and crispy pancetta in a serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 35-40 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions
This creamy, cheesy masterpiece combines the classic comfort food of macaroni and cheese with the deep, sweet flavor of caramelized onions. The result is a rich, satisfying dish perfect for cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized (about 20-25 minutes).
4. In a separate pot, combine milk, cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
5. Combine cooked macaroni, cheese sauce, and caramelized onions in a baking dish. Mix well.
6. Top with additional grated cheese (optional) and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Spinach and Artichoke Pasta
This rich and satisfying pasta dish combines the flavors of spinach, artichokes, and Parmesan cheese with a hint of garlic and lemon. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, garlic, and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat until the spinach has wilted.
3. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until melted. Then, add heavy cream and stir until well combined.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonara with Roasted Brussels Sprouts
A creamy, rich, and satisfying pasta dish gets a nutrient boost from roasted Brussels sprouts.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 4 large eggs
– 2 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook spaghetti in boiling salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
3. In a large skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat.
4. Crack eggs into the skillet and whisk together with cooked pancetta, Parmesan cheese, and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and black pepper.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and egg mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve immediately, topped with roasted Brussels sprouts.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Pasta
A flavorful and comforting pasta dish that combines the earthy taste of mushrooms with the warmth of thyme, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme; season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and mushroom mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemon Ricotta Pasta with Toasted Pine Nuts
This bright and creamy pasta dish is a perfect combination of springtime flavors, featuring lemon zest, ricotta cheese, and toasted pine nuts. It’s an easy and elegant meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (see note)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together ricotta cheese, lemon juice, and lemon zest until smooth.
3. Drain cooked pasta and add it to the ricotta mixture. Toss until coated.
4. Season with salt and top with Parmesan cheese and toasted pine nuts.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Note: To toast pine nuts, preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Spread pine nuts on a baking sheet and bake for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned, stirring occasionally.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Alfredo Pasta with Broccoli
A classic comfort food dish gets a healthy twist with the addition of broccoli. This recipe combines juicy chicken, rich pasta sauce, and tender veggies for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 8 oz fettuccine pasta
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté chicken and garlic until cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add butter and broccoli. Cook until broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until smooth.
5. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
This traditional Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines the simplicity of pasta, beans, and vegetables with the richness of Italian sausage. Perfect for a cold winter’s day or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small pasta shapes (e.g., ditalini, elbow macaroni)
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 Italian sausage link, casings removed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, cook Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add onion, garlic, kidney beans, vegetable broth, crushed tomatoes, and oregano. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Add cooked pasta to the soup and season with salt and pepper.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoked Salmon and Dill Pasta
This recipe combines the richness of smoked salmon with the brightness of fresh dill, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The creamy sauce and tender pasta make it a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1/2 cup smoked salmon, flaked
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in flaked salmon and chopped dill. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the flavors meld together.
4. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Toss to coat and top with Parmesan cheese (if using).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Roasted Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your pasta game with the rich flavors of roasted garlic and rosemary. This simple yet impressive dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, fettuccine)
– 2 heads of garlic
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried rosemary leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the top off each garlic head, drizzle with olive oil, and wrap in foil.
3. Roast the garlic for 30-40 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Add roasted garlic to a blender or food processor, along with rosemary leaves. Blend until smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, garlic-rosemary sauce, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Winter Pesto Pasta with Walnuts
This hearty pasta dish combines the rich flavors of winter pesto with the crunch of toasted walnuts, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as pappardelle or fettuccine)
– 1/4 cup Winter Pesto (see below for recipe)
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 cup toasted walnuts, chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Winter Pesto Recipe:
– 1 cup fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a small bowl, combine Winter Pesto ingredients.
3. In a large skillet, toast walnuts over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Add cooked pasta, parsley, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet with toasted walnuts.
5. Toss in Winter Pesto sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Clams and White Wine Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the brininess of clams with the creaminess of a white wine sauce, all wrapped up in a delicious spaghetti package. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 pounds fresh clams, scrubbed and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (dry)
– 1/2 cup clam juice
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti 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 onion and garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add clams, white wine, clam juice, butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Simmer until clams open (about 5 minutes).
4. Combine cooked spaghetti with clam mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 19 heartwarming winter pasta recipes! From creamy butternut squash to spicy sausage and kale, there’s something for everyone. Try Garlic Parmesan White Wine Pasta, Roasted Red Pepper and Goat Cheese Pasta, or Tuscan Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes. For a comforting classic, go for Beef Stroganoff Pasta or Baked Mac and Cheese with Caramelized Onions. And don’t forget the vegetarian options like Winter Vegetable Pasta Bake and Spinach and Artichoke Pasta. These recipes are sure to warm your belly and your heart this winter.
