If your pasta is still just “pretty good,” these 15 recipes are about to rewrite your Italian memories. We’re talking pasta so tasty, it could make a critic cry (in the good way). From sauces with real depth to fresh ways of using pantry staples, this list makes your go-to dishes look like warm-ups. Say goodbye to average spaghetti nights and hello to recipes that turn your kitchen into Italy, minus the price of airfare and jet lag.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
A hearty blend of pasta and beans, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a great option when you’re looking for something warm and satisfying. This soup has layers of flavor that come from its mix of ingredients, all cooked to perfection. It’s filling without being too heavy and easy to enjoy at any time of the year. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Steak & Pasta Salad
A twist on the classic pasta salad, Steak & Pasta Salad combines tender steak with fresh pasta for a filling, satisfying dish. The meat adds a savory punch, while the salad brings in freshness, creating the perfect balance. This dish is great for a hearty lunch or dinner and works well for meal prep or as a crowd-pleaser at a BBQ. It’s the best of both worlds when it comes to salads.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
When you’re short on time but want something flavorful, Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad is your go-to. The rotisserie chicken adds a savory, pre-cooked protein, making it quick to assemble. This pasta salad is versatile enough to be served as a side or as the main course. It’s light yet filling, perfect for a summer day or any time you’re craving something fresh and easy.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Smoked Shotgun Shells
If you’re a fan of bold flavors, Smoked Shotgun Shells should be on your radar. The smoky flavor takes this dish to a new level, giving it a depth you won’t find in a typical pasta. The shells absorb all the delicious seasoning, making every bite something to look forward to. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this is a dish that won’t disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Shotgun Shells
Baked Feta Pasta
If you’ve never tried Baked Feta Pasta, you’re in for a treat. The feta cheese melts into the sauce, creating a rich and creamy base that coats the pasta perfectly. It’s a crowd favorite because it’s so easy to make, yet delivers a comforting, satisfying flavor. This dish combines simplicity with flavor, making it a go-to for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
A little different from traditional pasta dishes, Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings a unique and flavorful option. The couscous offers a light, airy base, while the smoked tomatoes add depth and richness. This salad is the perfect balance of fresh and savory, making it ideal for lunch, dinner, or a light snack. It’s one of those meals that feels special without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs
Comfort food gets a serious upgrade with Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. The combination of soft tortellini and savory meatballs is a classic that never disappoints. This dish has all the heartiness you need while still feeling like a treat. It’s one of those meals that’s guaranteed to please everyone at the table, no matter the occasion.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most flavorful. Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce lets the sweet tomatoes shine, making it a bright, fresh option. This dish is perfect when tomatoes are at their peak and you want something that feels light but still comforting. It’s an easy dish to prepare and perfect for any pasta lover.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
A comforting classic, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup brings the flavors of a favorite restaurant dish right to your kitchen. The soup is hearty and satisfying, with a flavorful broth that makes it feel like a warm hug. It’s a great option for a cozy meal or when you’re craving something filling yet light. Plus, it’s simple to make and always a hit.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
These shells are packed with creamy cheese, making them a hearty and filling dish. Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells takes the comfort food experience to a new level. With every bite, the cheesy filling melts perfectly inside the tender shell. Perfect for a crowd or a cozy night in, these shells will leave you wondering how you ever lived without them. Once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular at your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Greek Spaghetti
Inspired by Mediterranean flavors, Greek Spaghetti offers a fresh twist on classic pasta. With its combination of vibrant veggies and herbs, this dish packs a punch without overwhelming your plate. It’s light yet filling, perfect for when you want a meal that’s both healthy and satisfying. The simplicity of the ingredients lets the natural flavors shine through in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti
Creamy Spinach Orzo
When you want something creamy but still light, Creamy Spinach Orzo has you covered. The orzo is the perfect size to absorb the rich, creamy sauce, making each bite flavorful without being too heavy. The spinach adds a burst of freshness that complements the creaminess of the sauce. This is a simple, satisfying dish that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto
The combination of flavors makes this dish a winner every time, no matter who’s at your table. Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto offer a unique twist on the classic stuffed pasta. The turkey filling is lean but still hearty, and the pesto adds an extra layer of freshness. It’s an ideal option for anyone who wants a satisfying meal without feeling too weighed down.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
This is one of those dishes you can make on a whim, yet it always delivers. Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes offers a fresh and creamy experience that’s perfect for any time of year. The ricotta adds a smooth richness, while the tomatoes bring a burst of brightness. Together, they create a well-balanced dish that’s satisfying without being overwhelming.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
If you love soft, pillowy gnocchi, this dish is for you. Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce takes the traditional flavor of gnocchi and pairs it with a fresh, zesty sauce. The tangy lemon cuts through the richness of the Parmesan, creating the perfect balance. It’s simple, fresh, and ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a casual gathering with friends.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce