• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
Parallel Plates
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
menu icon
go to homepage
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
search icon
Homepage link
  • About
  • Contact
  • Recipes
    • Appetizers
    • Breakfast
    • Soups
    • Sides
    • Desserts
  • Resources
×
Home » Recipe Collections

The 27 Pasta Dishes That Feel Special But Are Easy Enough for a Weeknight

Published: Mar 22, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Pasta dishes are the kind of comfort food that can feel a little special without a ton of effort. Whether you're winding down after a busy day or just want something better than the usual, these recipes hit the mark. They’re quick, easy, and still feel like you put in the extra effort — perfect for a weeknight when takeout is tempting, but a home-cooked meal wins.

An overhead image of creamy mushroom pasta on a serving plate.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

An image of lemon butter pasta in a bowl.
Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This lemon butter pasta is light, bright, and comes together in under 30 minutes. It's great for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Butter Pasta (Pasta al Limone)

Paccheri al Forno

An overhead image of paccheri al forno in a pyrex glass dish.
Paccheri al Forno. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Paccheri al Forno is a classic Italian pasta bake that's hearty and easy to prepare. With simple ingredients, it's a great choice for a weeknight meal.
Get the Recipe: Paccheri al Forno

Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Overhead view of rigatoni arrabbiata dish placed on a white plate and baking dish. 
Rigatoni Arrabbiata. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Rigatoni arrabbiata combines fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil for a bold, satisfying dish. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an easy way to elevate your weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Spicy Vodka Pasta

An overhead view of a cooked spicy vodka pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Vodka Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This spicy vodka pasta can be made with or without vodka and adjusted to be vegan or vegetarian. It's a flexible, flavorful option perfect for weeknights or date nights.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Vodka Pasta

Creamy Mushroom Pasta

An overhead image of creamy mushroom pasta on a serving plate.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Creamy mushroom pasta is a 30-minute dinner that feels like something from a restaurant. It's garlicky, comforting, and easy enough to enjoy any night of the week.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Pasta

Leek and Mushroom Pasta

An overhead image of cooked leek mushroom pasta in a pan.
Leek and Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

One pot leek and mushroom pasta is light, creamy, and packed with fresh herbs. Ready in 40 minutes, it’s a great go-to for a weeknight dinner that feels a little special.
Get the Recipe: Leek and Mushroom Pasta

Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Top view of bowl of spring pasta with peas and oyster mushrooms with garnishes on the side.
Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This vegan spring pasta uses a pea shoot pesto and roasted oyster mushrooms for bold flavor. It’s a 30-minute meal that’s easy enough for a busy weeknight.
Get the Recipe: Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Easy Veggie Lasagna

An image of a slice of vegetable lasagna on a white serving plate.
Easy Veggie Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegetable lasagna layers pasta, ricotta, and roasted vegetables for a hearty, meatless dinner. It’s a great way to get in your veggies while keeping dinner easy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Veggie Lasagna

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon ricotta pasta is a simple one-pot meal that comes together in just 15 minutes. It’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and last-minute dinner parties.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Jamaican Rasta Pasta

An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.
Jamaican Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan rasta pasta is a mildly spiced, colorful dish made with fresh ingredients. Ready in 30 minutes, it's a great weeknight choice when you want something quick and flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli pesto pasta comes together in 30 minutes with lemon zest, roasted broccoli, and cherry tomatoes. Served with whipped ricotta, it’s a fresh and easy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Pasta alla Norma

An overhead image of Pasta alla Norma in a bowl with another bowl of pasta on the side.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta alla Norma has sautéed eggplant, a rich tomato sauce, and fresh basil for a classic Italian flavor. It’s a 30-minute meal that makes weeknights feel a little more special.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Pasta Fresca

An overhead image of pasta fresca in a white plate with cheese and tomatoes in the background.
Pasta Fresca. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta fresca is all about fresh ingredients and simple flavors. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a great option when you want a quick but satisfying weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Fresca

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

An overhead image of sun dried tomato pasta in a rectangular dish.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This creamy sun-dried tomato pasta is a one-pot meal that’s ready in 30 minutes. It’s packed with garlic, ricotta, and parmesan, making it a great choice for weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Pasta e Piselli

An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
Pasta e Piselli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta e piselli is a classic Italian dish with peas and Pecorino cheese. Simple and ready in no time, it’s perfect for a fast weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Trenette al Pesto

An overhead image of trenette al pesto in a round serving plate.
Trenette al Pesto. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Trenette al Pesto combines basil pesto, potatoes, and green beans for a comforting, classic meal. It’s quick to make and perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Trenette al Pesto

Spicy Alfredo Pasta

An overhead iimage of two spicy alfredo pasta in a white plate.
Spicy Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spicy Alfredo pasta is a creamy, one-pot meal with a red pepper base. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s an easy go-to when you want something with bold flavor on a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Alfredo Pasta

Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Philly cheesesteak stuffed shells bring together savory beef, peppers, and creamy provolone. It’s a hearty, family-friendly choice that turns weeknight pasta into something fun.
Get the Recipe: Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

A plate of Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake.
Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Buffalo chicken pasta bake is creamy and packed with bold buffalo flavor. Quick and easy to prepare, it’s a great weeknight comfort meal.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake

Easy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Easy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Ground beef pasta is a weeknight go-to, ready in under 30 minutes. It’s hearty, simple, and full of flavor without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Easy Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Penne Pasta Bake

A wooden spoon scooping a portion of penne pasta bake.
Penne Pasta Bake. Photo credit: The Honour System.

Penne Pasta Bake is a cozy, cheesy meal with a rich beef marinara sauce. Baked to bubbly perfection, it’s a satisfying choice for gatherings or easy weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pasta Bake

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

A plate of Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta. Photo credit: Everyday Family Cooking.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta is a hands-off crockpot meal that’s both hearty and simple. Perfect for weeknights when you need a dinner that practically cooks itself.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Pasta

Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Pesto fettuccini with Bolognese sauce is a hearty Italian dish with fresh veggies and savory beef. It’s a great option when you want a bold, comforting pasta for dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Fettuccini with Bolognese Sauce

Meatball Pasta Bake

A casserole dish with meatballs and pasta.
Meatball Pasta Bake. Photo credit: One Hot Oven.

Meatball casserole is a quick, no-fuss dinner where you simply layer ingredients and bake. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes weeknights feel easy and effortless.
Get the Recipe: Meatball Pasta Bake

Simple Cheeseburger Pasta

Close-up image of cheeseburger pasta in a black pan.
Simple Cheeseburger Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Cheeseburger Pasta is a one-pot meal that brings the flavors of a classic burger to your plate. It’s quick, hearty, and perfect for a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Simple Cheeseburger Pasta

Lasagna al Forno

Lasagna al Forno. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Lasagna al forno has layers of pasta, meat sauce, and creamy béchamel. It’s a classic comfort meal that’s worth the time for a cozy weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Lasagna al Forno

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Baked cream cheese spaghetti is a rich, comforting dish with ground beef and creamy sauce. It’s easy to make and perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti

More Recipe Collections

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Close up headshot

Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

More about me →

Popular

  • Overhead image of cozy bowl of potato and sausage chowder with breads on the side.
    Potato And Sausage Chowder
  • Close-up of a bowl of Stuffed Pepper Soup, garnished with parsley, ready to serve.
    Stuffed Pepper Soup
  • A slice of Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars on a white plate in the foreground, with another slice on a pile of plates in the background.
    Brown Sugar Cinnamon Pop-Tart Bars
  • A serving of Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells on a plate.
    Philly Cheesesteak Stuffed Shells

Footer

↑ back to top

About

  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure & Terms of Use
  • Cookie Policy
  • Accessibility Policy

Newsletter

  • Sign Up!

Contact

  • Contact

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Copyright © 2024 Black Bicycle LLC