21 Quick Pasta Recipes for Fast, Delicious Meals
If you’re looking for delicious, easy dinners that don’t take hours in the kitchen, quick pasta recipes are your best friend. Whether you’re rushing on a weeknight, cooking for a crowd, or just want something comforting and satisfying, pasta delivers every time.
In this post, we’ve rounded up 21 quick pasta recipes you can make in 30 minutes or less. From creamy sauces to zesty tomato-based dishes and even one-pot wonders, there’s a pasta recipe here for every craving and every skill level.
1. Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, this garlic parmesan pasta comes together in under 20 minutes. Just cook your favorite pasta (like fettuccine or linguine), toss it with a butter, garlic, heavy cream, and parmesan mixture, and you’re done!
Tip: Add grilled chicken or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier meal.
2. One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta
This one-pot pasta is a game changer for busy nights. Just throw dry pasta, cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and broth into a pot and simmer. As the pasta cooks, it creates a luscious sauce that clings to every bite.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
3. Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
A classic Italian dish that uses pantry staples like spaghetti, olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. It’s simple, spicy, and satisfying. Garnish with parsley and grated parmesan if you like.
Pro tip: Don’t overcook the garlic—light golden is perfect!
4. Lemon Ricotta Pasta
Light and fresh, this pasta pairs creamy ricotta with zesty lemon for a bright and tangy sauce. Toss it with spaghetti or tagliatelle and top with cracked black pepper.
Add-ins: Spinach, peas, or arugula for a veggie boost.
5. Quick Tuna Pasta
Need a protein-packed dish fast? Combine canned tuna with garlic, lemon, capers, and olive oil over warm pasta. It’s Mediterranean-inspired and perfect when you’re low on groceries.
6. 15-Minute Pesto Pasta
Whether you use store-bought or homemade pesto, this dish is always a winner. Boil your pasta, stir in the pesto, and top with cherry tomatoes or grilled shrimp.
Best with: Fusilli, penne, or orecchiette.
7. Pasta Carbonara
Eggs, cheese, pancetta, and pepper create a silky sauce without cream. Traditional and incredibly quick—just be sure to toss the hot pasta off the heat to avoid scrambling the eggs.
8. Garlic Shrimp Linguine
This garlicky shrimp pasta is bold, buttery, and delicious. Sauté shrimp with garlic, chili flakes, and lemon, then toss with cooked linguine.
Dinner in 20 minutes? Done.
9. Spinach and Feta Orzo
Orzo cooks in minutes and pairs perfectly with wilted spinach and crumbled feta cheese. Drizzle with lemon juice or olive oil for a refreshing finish.
10. Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta
Sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, spinach, and cream make a rich and tangy sauce. Mix in cooked penne and garnish with fresh basil.
Optional: Add grilled chicken or Italian sausage.
11. Mac and Cheese (Stovetop)
Creamy stovetop mac and cheese is a crowd-pleaser. Make a roux, stir in milk, then melt in sharp cheddar and stir with elbow pasta.
Customize it: Add hot sauce, bacon bits, or a breadcrumb topping.
12. Cherry Tomato Burst Pasta
Heat cherry tomatoes in olive oil until they burst and release their juices. Add garlic and basil, then toss with spaghetti or angel hair.
It’s summer in a bowl.
13. Creamy Mushroom Pasta
Sauté sliced mushrooms in butter, garlic, and thyme. Stir in heavy cream and parmesan, then combine with fettuccine or penne.
Earthy, cozy, and rich.
14. Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cook pasta, sauté seasoned chicken with Cajun spice, then mix with a creamy tomato-based sauce. It’s spicy, comforting, and perfect for dinner guests.
15. Caprese Pasta Salad
Cook pasta and toss with cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze. Best served cold—great for meal prep or picnics.
16. Broccoli Alfredo Pasta
Steam or sauté broccoli while the pasta cooks. Mix with a quick Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and parmesan. Done in 20 minutes!
17. Zucchini Noodle Pasta
Looking for a low-carb option? Spiralize zucchini and sauté lightly with garlic and olive oil. Toss with cherry tomatoes and parmesan or your favorite sauce.
Perfect for a light lunch.
18. Creamy Avocado Pasta
Blend ripe avocado with lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to make a creamy green sauce. Toss with cooked spaghetti and serve immediately.
19. Thai Peanut Noodles
Whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, and sriracha. Toss with cooked noodles (even ramen works). Add shredded veggies or grilled tofu for extra nutrition.
20. Quick Baked Ziti
If you have 10 extra minutes, this baked ziti recipe is worth it. Mix cooked pasta with marinara and ricotta, top with shredded mozzarella, and broil until bubbly.
21. Buttered Noodles with Herbs
Sometimes, simple is best. Toss cooked noodles with butter, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Serve alongside grilled meats or enjoy solo.
Tips for Making Quick Pasta Recipes Even Faster
- Boil water early: Start heating your water before prepping other ingredients to save time.
- Use pre-chopped veggies: Frozen or pre-cut vegetables cut down prep time.
- Cook sauces while pasta boils: Use the pasta cook time to make your sauce or prep toppings.
- Choose short-cook pastas: Angel hair, orzo, and fresh pasta cook in 2–6 minutes.
Final Thoughts on Quick Pasta Recipes
Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, cooking for one, or just don’t want to think too hard after work, these quick pasta recipes offer flavor, comfort, and convenience in one bowl. Keep a few pantry staples like pasta, garlic, olive oil, and cheese on hand, and you’ll always have a delicious meal just minutes away.
Next time you’re hungry and in a rush, skip the takeout—try one of these pasta recipes instead!
