These Pasta Dishes Bring More to the Table

Not all pasta dishes are created equal some go beyond the usual comfort food and bring something extra to the table. Whether it’s a clever twist on a classic or a bold new combo, these recipes offer something a bit more special.

From rich sauces to unexpected ingredient pairings, there’s a lot to like here. These dishes can work for everything from weeknight dinners to casual gatherings without being too complicated or fussy.

They’re practical, full of flavor, and designed to be enjoyed. If pasta is already a go-to in your kitchen, these recipes might just become regulars on your menu.

Tortellini Salad

This chilled pasta salad brings together tender tortellini, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing that clings to every bite. It’s hearty enough for lunch but makes a colorful side dish too. Great for prepping ahead, especially for warm weather meals or potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Salad

Cantonese Style Chow Mein: Easy Pan-Fried Noodles

Crispy noodles meet stir-fried vegetables and savory sauce in this quick weeknight meal. With simple steps and easy ingredients, it’s perfect when you’re craving takeout but want to cook at home. A satisfying mix of textures in every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Cantonese Style Chow Mein: Easy Pan-Fried Noodles

Taco Pasta Salad

This recipe takes all the best parts of taco night and mixes them with pasta for a chilled, make-ahead dish. It’s loaded with familiar flavors, perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers. Just add your favorite toppings and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Taco Pasta Salad

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Creamy tomato sauce, a splash of vodka, and perfectly cooked rigatoni make this a comforting classic. Inspired by the restaurant favorite, it’s surprisingly simple to recreate at home. Pairs well with a green salad or crusty bread.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

This cozy bowl is filled with pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and vegetables in a creamy broth. It’s a one-pot wonder that warms up quickly, making it a weeknight staple. Leftovers (if any) reheat beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta

Sweet corn and tender chicken come together in a creamy sauce that coats every noodle. It’s quick enough for busy evenings and makes plenty for leftovers. Great way to use up pantry staples in a comforting way.
Get the Recipe: 30-Minute Creamy Chicken Corn and Pasta

Baked Rigatoni

Cheesy, saucy, and bubbling from the oven, this dish is everything you want from a baked pasta. Layers of marinara and mozzarella keep it classic, while the oven does most of the work. It’s freezer-friendly too.
Get the Recipe: Baked Rigatoni

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Creamy, garlicky Alfredo sauce meets juicy shrimp and fettuccine in this restaurant-style dish. It’s easy to pull off at home with just a few pantry staples. Great for a cozy dinner or an easy way to impress guests.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Sausage Tortellini Soup

Hearty and comforting, this soup brings together cheese-stuffed tortellini, crumbled sausage, and fresh greens in a savory broth. It comes together fast, making it perfect for busy nights. One bowl is plenty, but you’ll probably want seconds.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Tortellini Soup

Easy Pasta Puttanesca

With bold flavors from olives, capers, and garlic, this pantry-friendly pasta is fast and full of personality. It’s a great choice when you want something quick without skimping on flavor. Ready in the time it takes to boil pasta.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pasta Puttanesca

Homemade Beef and Noodles

This comfort classic features tender beef in a savory gravy over wide egg noodles. It’s a homestyle favorite that’s filling and freezer-friendly. Perfect for slow Sunday meals or feeding a hungry group.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Beef and Noodles

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Roasted red peppers make a smooth, creamy sauce without any dairy. This one’s plant-based, but still rich and satisfying. Toss it with your favorite pasta and top with fresh herbs for a quick, flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles

This pressure cooker version of a classic dish is fast, hearty, and full of flavor. Tender chicken, thick noodles, and a rich broth all come together in one pot. Ideal for when you need dinner on the table without much fuss.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles

Cheesy Leftover Taco Meat Pasta

This is the easiest way to give your leftover taco meat a second life. Tossed with pasta and melty cheese, it’s a quick and filling dinner that’s perfect for busy nights. Add in veggies or salsa for extra flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Leftover Taco Meat Pasta

Pierogi and Kielbasa Skillet

Potato-filled pierogi and smoky kielbasa are browned together in one pan for a fast, flavorful meal. A great option for weeknights when you want something hearty with minimal cleanup. Serve with sautéed onions or sour cream.
Get the Recipe: Pierogi and Kielbasa Skillet

Best Lemon Pasta

Bright and creamy, this pasta balances fresh lemon with just the right amount of richness. It’s light enough for warm weather but still comforting. A quick meal that feels a little extra without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Stuffed Shells

These jumbo pasta shells are packed with ricotta, mozzarella, and herbs, then baked in tomato sauce until bubbly. Great for meal prep, potlucks, or feeding a family. You can even make a batch ahead and freeze.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Shells

Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Zucchini blends into a velvety sauce that coats every noodle, boosted by a touch of parmesan. It’s a clever way to use summer produce in a dish that still feels indulgent. Bonus: it sneaks in a few veggies.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Zucchini Parmesan Pasta Sauce

Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Inspired by the popular sandwich, this pasta salad includes cured meats, cheese, and tangy dressing all tossed together. It holds up well in the fridge, making it ideal for make-ahead lunches or BBQs. Bold, salty, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Italian Grinder Pasta Salad

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Layered with creamy ricotta and spinach, this meatless lasagna still brings all the cozy vibes. It’s a comforting classic that’s perfect for gatherings or Sunday dinner. Leftovers are even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

BLT Pasta Salad

This version of the classic sandwich swaps bread for pasta but keeps the crispy bacon, juicy tomatoes, and fresh lettuce. A creamy dressing ties it all together. Great for picnics, potlucks, or casual dinners.
Get the Recipe: BLT Pasta Salad