Pasta Recipes That Go Beyond Sauce and Noodles

Pasta isn’t just about red sauce or creamy Alfredo. There’s a whole world of recipes where noodles are just the beginning—think baked, stuffed, grilled, or even turned into snacks. These ideas are great for shaking up your usual pasta routine.

Some of these dishes bring in unexpected ingredients like roasted veggies, eggs, or even crunchy toppings that add a new texture or flavor. Others play with form think pasta muffins, lasagna roll-ups, or stir-fried noodles with bold spices.

They’re simple enough for a weeknight but interesting enough to feel fresh. Whether you’re using leftovers or starting from scratch, there’s something here that makes pasta way more fun.

Baked Rigatoni

This baked rigatoni is all about comfort. Layers of pasta, rich tomato sauce, and gooey cheese come together in the oven to form a bubbly, golden-topped dish. It’s perfect for family dinners or when you want leftovers that taste even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rigatoni

Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

Seared scallops meet nutty brown butter in this simple yet rich pasta recipe. The sauce clings to each strand, balancing the delicate flavor of the seafood with bold, toasty notes. Great for date nights or when you’re craving something just a little extra.
Get the Recipe: Brown Butter Scallop Pasta

Sausage Tortellini Soup

This cozy soup is hearty without being heavy. Plump cheese tortellini and chunks of sausage simmer in a well-seasoned broth with bits of veggies throughout. It’s a one-pot meal that’s perfect for colder evenings or quick weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Tortellini Soup

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

These oversized pasta shells are packed with creamy cheese and nestled in marinara sauce. Baked until bubbly, they’re a crowd-pleaser and freezer-friendly too. Serve with garlic bread for the full experience.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Taco Pasta Salad

Think taco night but in pasta salad form. It’s packed with seasoned beef, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing with a kick. Ideal for potlucks, lunchboxes, or when you want something a little fun and different.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta

Bright and simple, this pasta is all about clean flavors. A buttery lemon-garlic sauce coats each noodle just right, with optional add-ins like herbs or chicken. Quick enough for busy nights but nice enough for guests.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Garlic Butter Pasta

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Inspired by the viral sandwich, this pasta salad mixes cold cuts, pepperoncini, and a creamy dressing with short pasta. It’s bold, tangy, and has great texture throughout. Perfect for BBQs or easy lunches.
Get the Recipe: Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

This one-pan meal brings together crispy gnocchi, savory sausage, and slightly bitter broccoli rabe. Everything cooks up fast with minimal cleanup. A great mix of flavors and textures without too much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe

Creamy Tortellini Soup

Soft cheese tortellini simmer in a creamy, herby broth with bits of veggies and protein. It’s filling and cozy but doesn’t feel too heavy. Ready in about 30 minutes, it’s a good option when time is tight but comfort is key.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tortellini Soup

Quick Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

This creamy fettuccine Alfredo comes together fast thanks to tender shrimp and a simple sauce. It’s a nice change from the usual chicken version and pairs well with a quick side salad. Feels like something you’d order out, but easy to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Quick Shrimp Fettuccine Alfredo

Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Philly cheesesteak vibes meet cheesy tortellini in this slow cooker recipe. Peppers, onions, and beef cook down into a savory mix that pairs perfectly with pasta. Just set it and let the flavors do their thing.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cheesesteak Tortellini

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Spicy sausage and bitter greens make a classic combo in this simple pasta. A touch of garlic and red pepper flakes bring everything together. It’s a flavorful dish with minimal ingredients but a lot of character.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta

Chicken piccata gets a pasta twist in this bright, briny dish. Capers, lemon, and a light sauce coat tender pasta and pan-seared chicken. Refreshing and light but still filling.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Piccata Pasta

Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Let your slow cooker do the work with this creamy, garlicky chicken dish. Parmesan adds richness while the sauce soaks into every bit of the pasta. It’s low effort but big on comfort.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Spinach Artichoke Feta Lasagna

Layered with creamy spinach, tangy artichokes, and feta, this lasagna brings a fresh twist to a classic. It’s lighter than meat-based versions but still hearty. Ideal for when you want something vegetarian and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Spinach Artichoke Feta Lasagna

Three Cheese Manicotti

Stuffed with a creamy blend of three cheeses, this baked pasta dish is rich and comforting. Marinara adds just the right acidity to balance the filling. It’s a classic for a reason and makes great leftovers too.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Meatball Pasta Bake

This pasta bake is loaded with tender meatballs, marinara, and melted cheese. Everything gets baked until golden and bubbly. It’s family-friendly and easy to make ahead.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Pasta Bake

Tortellini Salad

Cheese-filled tortellini are tossed with veggies and a light vinaigrette in this chilled salad. It’s quick to make and easy to customize. A go-to for lunches or summer potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad