Some say the secret to great pasta is patience. Others say it’s decades of experience. This lineup of 33 recipes says it’s all about getting dinner on the table without debating whether garlic belongs in the sauce. From time-honored classics to slightly rule-breaking twists, each dish is packed with flavor and the kind of satisfaction that makes arguing over the “right” way to make it completely unnecessary. Just be prepared for someone to insist their version is better.
Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Hearty, rich, and loaded with tradition, Pasta e Fagioli Soup is a one-pot wonder that’s been fueling families for generations. The pasta and beans make it thick enough to stand a spoon in, while the broth brings everything together. It’s the kind of meal that stretches ingredients without sacrificing flavor. Nonna might insist on making it the long way, but this version keeps things practical without losing what matters.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup
Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Rich, creamy, and baked to golden perfection, Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese is a reminder that simple ingredients can make the best meals. The pasta is coated in a velvety sauce that clings to every bite, creating the ultimate comfort food. It’s the dish that brings everyone back for seconds, no matter how old they are. Nonna might insist on doing it from scratch, but this one delivers without the extra work.
Get the Recipe: Old-Fashioned Mac and Cheese
Chicken Gnocchi Soup
A bowl of comfort that feels like a warm hug, this Chicken Gnocchi Soup is thick, creamy, and packed with flavor. The pillowy gnocchi soaks up the richness, making every bite satisfying. It’s the kind of meal that works on chilly nights, sick days, or when only something homemade will do. Nonna might raise an eyebrow at the shortcuts, but she’d have to admit—it gets the job done.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Restaurant-style pasta at home, Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo is rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. The shrimp add the perfect bite, while the sauce brings everything together in the best way. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy but comes together with minimal effort. Nonna might argue homemade is best, but she’d have to admit this one comes close.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo
Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Light, flavorful, and just different enough to stand out, Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes is a fresh take on pasta salad. The couscous keeps it hearty, while the smoked tomatoes bring a deep, rich flavor. It’s perfect for lunch, a side dish, or when a pasta craving hits but something lighter is needed. Nonna might not recognize it, but she’d appreciate a dish that vanishes fast.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs
Cooking pasta on a flat-top grill isn’t traditional, but Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs proves it works. The tortellini develops a slight crisp while soaking up every bit of flavor from those sizzling meatballs. It’s a game-changer for pasta night, especially when everything comes together in one spot. Just don’t tell Nonna it never touched a pot of boiling water.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs
Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Light but satisfying, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp is the perfect mix of fresh and filling. The orzo keeps things hearty, while the shrimp add a rich, savory bite. It’s the kind of dish that works for lunch, dinner, or a side that steals the spotlight. Nonna might not understand the Mediterranean twist, but she’d respect a plate that disappears fast.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp
Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Nostalgia in a dish, Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole brings back the kind of dinners that got everyone to the table. The creamy sauce, hearty pasta, and just the right amount of crunch on top make it a favorite. It’s the kind of meal that’s comforting, budget-friendly and always hits the spot. Nonna might question the canned shortcuts, but there’s no arguing with the results.
Get the Recipe: Classic Tuna Noodle Casserole
Steak & Pasta Salad
A mix of bold flavors and hearty ingredients, Steak & Pasta Salad proves pasta isn’t just for heavy sauces. The steak brings a rich, savory element, while the pasta makes it filling enough to be a meal on its own. It’s a dish that works for summer cookouts or when you need something fresh with a little bite. Nonna might prefer a Sunday roast, but she’d admit this one makes sense.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Sloppy Joe Casserole
Classic comfort food meets pasta night with Sloppy Joe Casserole, a dish that brings all the bold, saucy flavors into one easy bake. The pasta soaks up the rich sauce, making it a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that pleases both kids and adults while keeping cleanup simple. Nonna might not approve of the shortcut, but she’d love the results.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole
Million Dollar Spaghetti
Layers of rich flavors make Million Dollar Spaghetti a dish that earns its name. It combines everything great about pasta night into one hearty, satisfying bake. The textures and flavors come together in a way that makes every bite feel like comfort food at its finest. Nonna might not believe in shortcuts, but she’d have to admit this one is worth it.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
A simple way to turn leftover chicken into something special, Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad is a quick fix that tastes like it took more effort than it did. The pasta makes it hearty, while the chicken brings a rich, savory element. It’s the kind of meal that works for lunch, meal prep, or when dinner needs to be easy. Nonna might prefer a slow-roasted bird, but she’d love how practical this is.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Restaurant-quality without reservation, Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka delivers a bold, creamy sauce that coats every bite. The pasta holds up beautifully, making each forkful packed with flavor. It’s a dish that looks impressive but comes together without the stress. Nonna might not agree with the vodka, but she’d appreciate the results.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka
Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins
A homestyle classic, Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins bring all the slow-cooked flavors without the wait. The dumplings soak up every bit of rich, savory broth, making each bite as comforting as the real thing. It’s the kind of meal that feels like it took all day but comes together without the fuss. Nonna might not be familiar with this Southern favorite, but she’d respect a dish that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Cracker Barrel Chicken and Dumplins
Salmon Pasta Salad
Light yet satisfying, Salmon Pasta Salad balances hearty ingredients with fresh flavors. The pasta makes it filling, while the salmon brings just the right amount of richness. It’s perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a quick dinner that doesn’t feel rushed. Nonna might prefer something baked and served with bread, but she’d have to admit this one works.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Bold, rich, and packed with deep flavor, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup brings a taste of Sicily to the table. The broth is hearty enough to stand on its own, with every bite delivering comfort and warmth. It’s a restaurant favorite made easy at home, perfect for any season. Nonna might have her own version, but she’d respect this one.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup
Baked Feta Pasta
Internet-famous for a reason, Baked Feta Pasta turns simple ingredients into something bold and flavorful. The pasta soaks up a rich, creamy sauce, creating a dish that feels way fancier than it actually is. It’s a one-pan wonder that makes dinner easier without sacrificing taste. Nonna might not understand the viral appeal, but she’d love how quickly it disappears.
Get the Recipe: Baked Feta Pasta
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
A classic dish turned into a comforting pasta bake, Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole brings together rich flavors in one easy-to-serve meal. The layers of texture and flavor make it a standout for dinner. It’s hearty enough for a big appetite but simple enough for a weeknight. Nonna might not expect this twist, but she’d love the practicality.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Easy Salmon Pasta Salad
Light, fresh, and perfect for meal prep, Easy Salmon Pasta Salad brings together hearty and refreshing flavors in one dish. The pasta makes it filling, while the salmon adds a rich, satisfying bite. It’s great for lunch, dinner, or a quick side that steals the show. Nonna might expect something baked in the oven, but she’d appreciate how effortless this one is.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad
Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Comforting and hearty, Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken delivers a warm, satisfying meal in one bowl. The tortellini soak up all the rich flavors, while the broth keeps things light yet filling. It’s the perfect mix of comforting and nutritious. Nonna might not love the kale, but she’d approve of a soup this good.
Get the Recipe: Tortellini Soup with Kale & Chicken
Pastitsio
A Greek classic, Pastitsio brings layers of pasta, rich sauce, and bold flavors together in one baked dish. It’s a meal that takes its time but pays off with every bite. The textures and flavors create a balance that feels both comforting and indulgent. Nonna might not be Greek, but she’d respect a dish with this much history.
Get the Recipe: Pastitsio
Pesto Orzo Salad
Fresh and full of flavor, Pesto Orzo Salad is a simple dish that works as a side or a meal on its own. The orzo keeps it light, while the pesto brings a bold, herby bite. It’s great for warm weather or when something fresh is needed. Nonna might insist on making the pesto from scratch, but this version gets it done fast.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Cajun Pasta with Shrimp
Bold and full of spice, Cajun Pasta with Shrimp brings a kick to pasta night. The shrimp adds a rich, savory bite, while the sauce ties everything together with just the right amount of heat. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but comes together fast. Nonna might not be familiar with the Southern twist, but she’d respect a meal with this much flavor.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Pasta with Shrimp
Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm, rich, and incredibly comforting, Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup takes a classic and makes it even heartier. The broth is thick enough to feel like a meal on its own, while the pasta gives it extra substance. It’s perfect for cold days, sick days, or when only something homemade will do. Nonna might insist on making the noodles from scratch, but this version keeps things practical.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Simple ingredients, big flavor—Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce proves that great pasta doesn’t need a complicated sauce. The tomatoes bring brightness, while the pasta holds onto every bit of that fresh, bold taste. It’s a dish that works for any season, whether fresh-picked tomatoes are available or not. Nonna might insist on slow-cooking the sauce for hours, but this one gets straight to the point.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Fresh Cherry Tomato Sauce
Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Hearty, rich, and full of deep flavors, Italian Pot Roast Pasta turns a slow-cooked favorite into a full meal. The pasta soaks up all the bold, savory goodness, making every bite satisfying. It’s perfect for Sunday dinner or when something extra comforting is needed. Nonna might have her own recipe, but she’d respect a dish this good.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pot Roast Pasta
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Simple ingredients come together in Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes to create a dish that’s light, creamy, and full of bold flavor. The ricotta adds richness, while the tomatoes bring just the right balance. It’s perfect for when pasta night needs a fresh twist without a complicated sauce. Nonna might prefer slow-simmered sauces, but she’d love how quickly this one disappears.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes
Creamy Spinach Orzo
Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor, Creamy Spinach Orzo is a one-pot dish that delivers without the fuss. The orzo cooks to the perfect texture, soaking up a creamy sauce that keeps every bite satisfying. It’s great as a main dish or a side that steals the spotlight. Nonna might not expect pasta this small to carry so much flavor, but she’d be impressed.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Hearty, bold, and packed with just the right balance of flavors, Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is a classic that never gets old. The pasta holds onto every bit of savory goodness, making each bite satisfying. It’s the kind of dish that’s simple but feels like it took effort. Nonna might have her own technique, but she’d appreciate the flavors.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta
Greek Spaghetti
A Mediterranean twist on a classic, Greek Spaghetti brings fresh, bold flavors to the table in a way that keeps things interesting. The pasta is the perfect base for a dish that’s both light and satisfying. It’s great for a change from the usual sauce-heavy pasta nights. Nonna might not recognize it, but she’d love how quickly it comes together.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Comfort food at its finest, Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells take pasta night to the next level. The shells hold a rich, creamy filling, while the sauce brings everything together. It’s the perfect balance of hearty and comforting. Nonna might insist on making them smaller, but she’d love the idea.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Spaetzle
A comforting German classic, Spaetzle is the perfect balance of chewy pasta and rich flavors. These little dumplings are hearty enough to stand on their own or serve as the perfect side. They soak up sauces beautifully, making them a versatile addition to any meal. Nonna might not have made these, but she’d admire the technique.
Get the Recipe: Spaetzle
Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce
Soft, pillowy gnocchi meet a bold, creamy sauce in Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce, a dish that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly. The lemon adds a bright contrast, while the parmesan brings just the right amount of richness. It’s perfect for when a pasta craving hits but something different is needed. Nonna might have her own gnocchi recipe, but she’d love this version too.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce