21+ Classic Pasta Dinner Recipes to Try Tonight

Pasta has long been a beloved staple in kitchens worldwide, celebrated for its versatility, comforting textures, and ability to pair beautifully with countless flavors.

Whether you crave a creamy Alfredo, a rich Bolognese, or a light and fresh primavera, classic pasta dishes deliver timeless satisfaction every time.

In this collection of over 21 classic pasta dinner recipes, you’ll find everything from hearty baked lasagnas to simple yet flavorful aglio e olio — perfect for weeknight meals or special occasions alike.

These recipes embrace authentic ingredients and traditional techniques that have stood the test of time, bringing the heart of Italian cooking right to your table.

21+ Classic Pasta Dinner Recipes to Try Tonight

Exploring classic pasta dinner recipes is like taking a delicious journey through Italy’s rich culinary heritage.

These dishes are perfect examples of how simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors and memorable meals.

Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these pasta classics offer something for every palate and occasion.

So grab your favorite pasta, get cooking, and savor the timeless taste of Italy in every bite.

Spaghetti Carbonara

Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless Italian pasta dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavors, created from simple ingredients like eggs, cheese, pancetta, and black pepper.

This classic recipe is quick to prepare and offers a comforting yet elegant dinner option that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano or Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Salt
• Olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat a little olive oil and gently cook the garlic cloves and pancetta until the pancetta is crispy. Remove garlic and discard.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and cheese together.
4. Toss the hot pasta into the skillet with pancetta, then remove from heat and quickly mix in the egg and cheese mixture, stirring vigorously to create a creamy sauce without scrambling the eggs.
5. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick. Season generously with black pepper and serve immediately.

Spaghetti Carbonara is a simple yet luxurious dinner that highlights how a few quality ingredients can come together to create a dish bursting with flavor and texture.

Its creamy, savory sauce is a beloved classic that’s sure to impress family and guests alike.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta dish famous for its velvety sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.

This classic Italian-American favorite is indulgent yet straightforward, making it an ideal comfort food dinner that pleases all ages.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving a little pasta water.
2. In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and simmer gently for 3-5 minutes.
3. Reduce heat to low and gradually whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
4. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and black pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Fettuccine Alfredo is the epitome of comfort food with its luscious, creamy sauce enveloping tender pasta.

It’s an elegant yet uncomplicated dish that’s perfect for special occasions or when you want a satisfying meal that’s quick to prepare.

Penne Arrabbiata

Penne Arrabbiata is a fiery and flavorful classic Italian pasta dish featuring a spicy tomato sauce made with garlic, red chili flakes, and fresh herbs.

This dish delivers a perfect balance of heat and tang, making it an exciting and easy dinner option for lovers of bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 to 1/2 tsp red chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and chili flakes, sauté until fragrant but not browned.
3. Add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 10-15 minutes until sauce thickens.
4. Toss cooked penne in the sauce until well coated.
5. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan if desired before serving.

Penne Arrabbiata is a vibrant and satisfying dinner that showcases how a few simple ingredients can create a deeply flavorful and spicy sauce.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their pasta and want a quick yet memorable meal.

Lasagna Bolognese

Lasagna Bolognese is a classic Italian layered pasta dish combining rich, slow-cooked meat sauce with creamy béchamel and sheets of tender pasta.

This hearty and comforting recipe is perfect for family dinners or special occasions, offering layers of flavor and texture in every bite.

Ingredients:

• Lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup béchamel sauce (butter, flour, milk)
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or oregano

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion and garlic until soft. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and herbs. Simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Prepare béchamel sauce by melting butter, whisking in flour, then slowly adding milk until thickened.
4. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions.
5. In a baking dish, layer noodles, meat sauce, béchamel, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with cheese on top.
6. Bake for about 40 minutes until golden and bubbly. Let rest before serving.

Lasagna Bolognese is a beloved classic that delivers comfort and satisfaction through its rich layers of meat, creamy sauce, and tender pasta.

It’s a show-stopping dish that fills the home with inviting aromas and brings everyone together around the table.

Pesto Pasta

Pesto Pasta is a fresh and fragrant classic made with basil pesto sauce tossed into your favorite pasta shape.

This simple yet vibrant dish highlights the bright flavors of fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and Parmesan, making it a delicious and quick dinner solution.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (like fusilli or linguine)
• 2 cups fresh basil leaves
• 1/3 cup pine nuts
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cherry tomatoes (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain, reserving some pasta water.
2. In a food processor, blend basil, pine nuts, garlic, and Parmesan while slowly adding olive oil until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Toss pasta with pesto, adding reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
4. Serve with extra Parmesan and cherry tomatoes if desired.

Pesto Pasta is a quick, fresh, and flavorful dinner that celebrates simple, quality ingredients.

It’s perfect for warm evenings or when you want a bright, herbaceous meal with minimal effort.

Classic Spaghetti Marinara

Classic Spaghetti Marinara features tender spaghetti noodles coated in a vibrant, garlicky tomato sauce simmered to perfection with fresh herbs.

This simple yet flavorful pasta dinner is a staple of Italian cuisine and perfect for a wholesome, comforting meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until sauce thickens.
4. Toss spaghetti with sauce until evenly coated.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and Parmesan if desired before serving.

Classic Spaghetti Marinara is a timeless and satisfying dinner that showcases the beauty of simple, fresh ingredients.

It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy authentic Italian flavors at home, perfect for any night of the week.

Penne alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka is a classic Italian-American pasta dish known for its creamy, tangy tomato sauce with a subtle kick from vodka.

This rich and flavorful dinner recipe combines penne pasta with a luscious sauce made from tomatoes, cream, garlic, and a splash of vodka, creating a comforting yet elegant meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup vodka
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

1. Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
3. Carefully add vodka and cook until reduced by half.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream. Mix until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
6. Toss cooked penne into the sauce until well coated. Garnish with fresh herbs and Parmesan before serving.

Penne alla Vodka is a decadent and satisfying dinner that balances the acidity of tomatoes with creamy richness and a subtle vodka warmth.

It’s an impressive dish that’s simple enough for weeknights yet special enough for guests.

Classic Baked Ziti

Classic Baked Ziti is a comforting and hearty Italian-American casserole featuring ziti pasta baked with a rich tomato sauce, melted cheese, and often a creamy ricotta layer.

This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd and delivers layers of cheesy, saucy goodness with every bite.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage or ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook ziti pasta until al dente and drain.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion and sausage until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in marinara sauce and simmer for 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, meat sauce, and ricotta cheese. Mix well.
6. Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

Classic Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings.

Its layers of creamy cheese and savory sauce make it a crowd-pleaser that never goes out of style.

Cacio e Pepe

Cacio e Pepe is a minimalist Roman pasta classic that showcases the beauty of simple ingredients — just pasta, Pecorino Romano cheese, and black pepper.

This quick and elegant dish is rich, creamy, and peppery, proving that sometimes less truly is more.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or tonnarelli
• 1 1/2 cups finely grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• Salt
• Pasta water (reserved)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until just shy of al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water and drain the pasta.
2. In a large pan, toast black pepper in a dry skillet for a minute to release aroma.
3. Add pasta and a splash of reserved pasta water to the pan. Toss to coat.
4. Slowly add grated Pecorino cheese, stirring vigorously and adding pasta water as needed to create a creamy sauce that clings to the noodles.
5. Serve immediately with extra cheese and pepper.

Cacio e Pepe is a perfect example of simple ingredients combining to create an unforgettable flavor experience.

It’s a classic pasta dinner that’s quick to prepare, elegant, and deeply satisfying.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian pasta dish celebrated for its simplicity and bold flavors.

Made with just garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley, this dish is quick to prepare yet full of savory goodness.

It’s a perfect choice for a light but satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sliced garlic and sauté until golden and fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in red pepper flakes and cook for another 30 seconds.
4. Add cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the garlic oil. Add reserved pasta water little by little if needed to loosen the sauce.
5. Season with salt, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with Parmesan if desired.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a brilliant example of how simple pantry staples can come together to create a flavorful and comforting meal.

It’s perfect for a quick dinner when you want something delicious without fuss.

Rigatoni alla Norma

Rigatoni alla Norma is a beloved Sicilian pasta dish that combines tender rigatoni with a savory tomato sauce, fried eggplant, fresh basil, and salty ricotta salata cheese.

This recipe delivers a hearty and flavorful dinner that celebrates classic Mediterranean ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rigatoni
• 1 medium eggplant, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Olive oil for frying
• Fresh basil leaves
• 1/2 cup grated ricotta salata or Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Salt the diced eggplant and let it sit for 30 minutes to remove bitterness, then rinse and pat dry.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet and fry eggplant until golden and soft. Drain on paper towels.
3. Cook rigatoni in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain.
4. In a separate pan, sauté garlic in olive oil, add crushed tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Toss rigatoni with the tomato sauce and fried eggplant. Garnish with fresh basil and sprinkle with ricotta salata before serving.

Rigatoni alla Norma is a comforting and authentic Sicilian dish that highlights the perfect marriage of eggplant and tomato.

It’s a satisfying vegetarian dinner with rich flavors and beautiful colors.

Fettuccine Puttanesca

Fettuccine Puttanesca is a bold and tangy pasta dish originating from Naples, featuring a sauce packed with olives, capers, anchovies, and tomatoes.

This classic recipe offers a punchy, savory flavor profile and makes a quick yet impressive dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup pitted black olives, sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 4 anchovy fillets, chopped (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and anchovies, cooking until fragrant and anchovies dissolve.
3. Stir in olives, capers, and red pepper flakes if using. Add diced tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Fettuccine Puttanesca is a vibrant and flavorful dish that packs a salty, briny punch.

It’s perfect for those who enjoy bold Mediterranean flavors and want a quick, satisfying pasta dinner.

Tortellini alla Panna

Tortellini alla Panna is a classic Italian pasta dish featuring cheese-filled tortellini bathed in a creamy, buttery sauce. It’s an indulgent yet simple dinner option that combines silky cream with tender pasta for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz cheese tortellini
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook tortellini according to package instructions until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add cooked tortellini to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Tortellini alla Panna is the perfect comfort food for creamy pasta lovers.

It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, yet rich enough to feel like a special treat.

Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a fresh and vibrant pasta dish loaded with a variety of colorful spring vegetables.

Tossed in a light garlic and olive oil sauce, this classic recipe celebrates seasonal produce and makes a healthy, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta (penne or farfalle work well)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
• 1 cup asparagus, cut into pieces
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil or parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
3. Add vegetables and cook until tender-crisp.
4. Toss pasta with vegetables, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Top with Parmesan if desired.

Pasta Primavera is a light, colorful dish that’s perfect for spring and summer dinners.

It’s both nourishing and flavorful, showcasing the best of fresh vegetables in a simple pasta meal.

Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe

Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe is a traditional Southern Italian pasta dish that combines slightly bitter broccoli rabe with garlic, chili flakes, and orecchiette pasta.

This hearty yet balanced recipe offers a wonderful contrast of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz orecchiette pasta
• 1 bunch broccoli rabe, trimmed and chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper
• Grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch broccoli rabe for 2-3 minutes, then remove and set aside.
2. Cook orecchiette in the same water until al dente. Drain.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes until fragrant.
4. Add broccoli rabe and cook until tender.
5. Toss pasta with broccoli rabe mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve with Pecorino Romano cheese if desired.

Orecchiette with Broccoli Rabe is a bold and flavorful dinner that highlights rustic Italian flavors.

It’s a great way to enjoy a vegetable-forward pasta with a little spicy kick and satisfying bite.

Carbonara

Carbonara is a timeless Italian pasta dish that combines creamy eggs, crispy pancetta, and Parmesan cheese to create a rich and comforting meal.

This quick and flavorful recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner with minimal ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve some pasta water and drain.
2. In a skillet, cook pancetta over medium heat until crispy. Add garlic and sauté briefly.
3. In a bowl, whisk eggs and Parmesan cheese together.
4. Toss hot pasta with pancetta and remove from heat. Quickly stir in egg mixture, adding reserved pasta water little by little to create a creamy sauce.
5. Season with salt and plenty of black pepper. Serve immediately.

Carbonara is a beautifully simple yet indulgent dish, perfect for anyone who loves creamy pasta with a smoky, savory touch.

Its quick prep time makes it an ideal go-to dinner.

Fettuccine Alfredo

Fettuccine Alfredo is a rich and creamy pasta classic known for its luscious butter and Parmesan sauce.

This elegant dish is simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, perfect for a comforting dinner.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 1/2 cups grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook fettuccine in salted boiling water until al dente and drain.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add heavy cream and simmer gently.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
4. Toss pasta with the sauce, seasoning with salt and pepper.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Fettuccine Alfredo is a decadent meal that turns simple ingredients into a luxurious dinner.

It’s a perfect choice for special occasions or when you crave something creamy and comforting.

Spaghetti Puttanesca

Spaghetti Puttanesca is a bold Italian dish bursting with flavors of olives, capers, anchovies, and tomatoes.

This savory, tangy pasta is quick to prepare and packed with Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced
• 2 tbsp capers, rinsed
• 4 anchovy fillets, chopped (optional)
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook spaghetti in salted water until al dente and drain.
2. Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté garlic and anchovies until fragrant.
3. Add olives, capers, and red pepper flakes, then stir in diced tomatoes. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Toss pasta with the sauce and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spaghetti Puttanesca is a vibrant and flavorful dish that offers a perfect balance of salty, tangy, and spicy notes.

It’s a great way to enjoy a quick and satisfying Mediterranean-inspired dinner.

Lasagna Bolognese

Lasagna Bolognese is a hearty Italian classic featuring layers of tender pasta sheets, rich meat sauce, creamy béchamel, and melted cheese.

This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner that fills the home with irresistible aromas.

Ingredients:

• Lasagna noodles
• 1 lb ground beef or pork
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups béchamel sauce (butter, flour, milk)
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook lasagna noodles until al dente.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion and garlic until softened. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in marinara sauce, salt, and pepper; simmer for 20 minutes.
3. In a baking dish, layer noodles, meat sauce, béchamel, and cheeses. Repeat layers, finishing with mozzarella and Parmesan on top.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Lasagna Bolognese is a timeless dish that brings layers of flavor and texture to your dinner table.

Its rich, creamy, and meaty components make it a family favorite for special occasions or cozy nights in.

Cavatappi with Sausage and Peppers

Cavatappi with Sausage and Peppers is a flavorful pasta dish that combines corkscrew-shaped pasta with spicy sausage, sweet bell peppers, and a savory tomato sauce.

It’s a satisfying and colorful dinner full of bold Italian flavors.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz cavatappi pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage, sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook cavatappi pasta until al dente and drain.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and cook sausage until browned. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté onions, garlic, and bell peppers until tender.
4. Return sausage to the pan, add marinara sauce, and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Toss pasta with the sausage and pepper sauce. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

This dish is a fantastic combination of spicy sausage and sweet peppers paired with pasta, making it a hearty and crowd-pleasing dinner that’s easy to prepare any night of the week.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells are a comforting vegetarian pasta dish featuring jumbo pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta, spinach, and herbs, baked in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese.

Ingredients:

• Jumbo pasta shells
• 2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 cup cooked spinach, drained and chopped
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta shells until al dente and drain.
2. In a bowl, combine ricotta, spinach, egg, salt, pepper, and herbs.
3. Spread a layer of marinara sauce in a baking dish. Stuff each shell with the ricotta mixture and place in the dish.
4. Cover shells with remaining marinara sauce and sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells offer a deliciously creamy and cheesy vegetarian dinner option.

They’re perfect for a cozy meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.

Conclusion

Classic pasta recipes are more than just meals — they’re comfort, tradition, and creativity rolled into one. With over 21 tried-and-true dishes to choose from, you have a treasure trove of dinner ideas that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. From creamy sauces to zesty tomato-based recipes, these pasta dinners will inspire you to cook more often and enjoy the simple pleasures of homemade food. Dive in and let these classic recipes become your new favorites.