Save Dinner With 29 Pasta Recipes That Work With What You’ve Got

ByMandy

Dinner doesn’t have to be complicated, and these 29 pasta recipes prove it. Work with what’s in the kitchen instead of running to the store. Whether there’s a little or a lot, something good is coming to the table. No stress, no wasted ingredients—just a meal that makes sense.

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Ravioli Casserole

Close-up of a baked dish with ravioli, mushrooms, asparagus, and melted cheese on top.
Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sometimes you just need a dish that brings comfort right to your table. Ravioli Casserole is like a hug in a bowl, perfect for those nights when you crave something hearty. It’s easy to throw together even on your busiest days. Trust me, your stomach will thank you for this one.
Get the Recipe: Ravioli Casserole

Marry Me Chicken Soup

A creamy pasta dish with spinach, shredded chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and shell pasta, garnished with herbs.
Marry Me Chicken Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Ever had a soup so good it feels like a warm embrace? Marry Me Chicken Soup is just that. It’s rich, it’s hearty, and it might just make someone pop the question. When you’re in the mood for cozy, this soup has got your back.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Soup

Spaghetti Casserole

A serving of cheesy baked spaghetti is being lifted with a utensil. The dish is topped with melted cheese and garnished with herbs.
Spaghetti Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

For those evenings when you’re craving pasta but also want something a little more substantial, Spaghetti Casserole has got you covered. It’s a twist on your classic spaghetti but baked to perfection. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, making everyone at the table ask for seconds. And honestly, it’s a breeze to make.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Casserole

Birria Ramen

A bowl of ramen with meat, cilantro, and a lime wedge, topped with noodles wrapped around chopsticks.
Birria Ramen. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Who said you can’t mix and match your favorites? Birria Ramen combines the best of two worlds in a way that’s unexpectedly awesome. It’s one of those meals that surprises you with how good it is. Ideal for when you’re looking for something different yet utterly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Birria Ramen

Hamburger Casserole

A close-up of a spoon lifting a portion of hamburger casserole, showcasing baked macaroni and cheese layered with ground meat and topped with lettuce and creamy sauce.
Hamburger Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Hamburger Casserole is the ultimate comfort food that takes you back to your childhood kitchen. It’s straightforward, filling, and scrumptious. Perfect for feeding a hungry family or when you’re in need of a little comfort yourself. Plus, it’s a great way to make a meal stretch.
Get the Recipe: Hamburger Casserole

Cheese Ravioli

A white plate of ravioli topped with black pepper, grated cheese, and sage leaves.
Cheese Ravioli. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you’re a fan of pasta, then Cheese Ravioli is your go-to. It’s simple, it’s cheesy, and it hits the spot every single time. Whether you dress it up or down, it’s a winner in any scenario. Seriously, who can say no to cheese-packed pasta?
Get the Recipe: Cheese Ravioli

Cheeseburger Pasta

A skillet filled with penne pasta topped with shredded cheese, ground beef, diced tomatoes, lettuce, and pickles—a delicious take on cheeseburger pasta.
Cheeseburger Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combine the love for burgers with the comfort of pasta and you get Cheeseburger Pasta. It’s as fun to eat as it sounds. This dish is a great way to switch up your weeknight dinner routine. Plus, it’s sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
Get the Recipe: Cheeseburger Pasta

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Close-up of a serving of cheesy baked spaghetti with meat sauce, topped with fresh parsley, being lifted from a dish.
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Don’t let the name fool you; you don’t need a million bucks to enjoy Million Dollar Spaghetti. This dish is all about making your dinner feel luxurious without any fuss. It’s the perfect blend of simple ingredients coming together to create something amazing. Plus, it’s guaranteed to make your evening a bit more special.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Chicken Noodle Casserole

Close-up of a chicken noodle casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chicken Noodle Casserole takes the classic soup and turns it into a hearty meal. It’s comforting, it’s filling, and it’s everything you need after a long day. This dish is like a warm blanket on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

A dish of ravioli with bacon and parsley that can be found at Olive Garden.
Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No need to get dressed or leave the house when you can bring Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara right into your kitchen. Enjoy a creamy, comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. It replicates the restaurant favorite with ease. This pasta is a real game changer for dinner plans.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Ravioli Carbonara

Minestrone Soup

A bowl of hearty minestrone soup packed with green beans, pasta, zucchini, tomatoes, and herbs, served with crusty bread slices.
Minestrone Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Minestrone Soup is that veggie-packed dish you turn to when you need a bit of balance. It’s hearty, it’s healthy, and it’s surprisingly filling. This soup is a great way to sneak in those veggies without compromising on taste. Plus, it’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug.
Get the Recipe: Minestrone Soup

Chicken and Rice Casserole

Baked rice casserole with melted cheese on top, garnished with chopped herbs.
Chicken and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

This casserole is the one-dish wonder you need in your life. It’s easy, it’s comforting, and it saves you from a sink full of dishes. This is the kind of meal that you can count on to be a hit every time. Chicken and Rice Casserole is also perfect for those nights when simplicity is key.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Rice Casserole

Best Lemon Pasta

A bowl of pasta with lemon slices and parmesan cheese.
Best Lemon Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Best Lemon Pasta is your ticket to a quick yet incredibly satisfying meal. It’s bright, it’s fresh, and it’s packed with flavor. This pasta dish is the perfect balance of simple ingredients making a big impact. It’s ideal for when you’re craving something light but don’t want to skimp on taste.
Get the Recipe: Best Lemon Pasta

Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

A plate of spaghetti topped with grilled chicken strips and garnished with chopped parsley, bell peppers, and shredded cheese.
Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

If you’re missing dining out, Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta brings the restaurant experience home. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it’s utterly satisfying. This dish allows you to recreate those favorite eating-out memories right in your own kitchen. Plus, it’s a surefire way to impress anyone at the dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Scampi Pasta

Cacio e Pepe

Close-up of cooked spaghetti with cracked black pepper and a fork partially visible.
Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a lesson in the beauty of simplicity, turn to Cacio e Pepe. It’s minimal, it’s classic, and it’s downright delicious. This dish proves that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something fantastic. It’s the perfect go-to for a quick, no-fuss meal that feels a tad fancy.
Get the Recipe: Cacio e Pepe

Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of creamy lasagna with browned cheese on top and visible layers of pasta, spinach, and sauce.
Chicken Alfredo Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When you can’t decide between chicken alfredo and lasagna, Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is the answer. This dish is creamy, dreamy, and absolutely scrumptious. It’s a unique take on two classic dishes that everyone loves. Perfect for when you want to impress without too much stress.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Alfredo Lasagna

Morel Mushroom Pasta

A bowl of cavatappi pasta with morel mushrooms, garnished with grated cheese and fresh herbs.
Morel Mushroom Pasta. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Dig into the world of gourmet meals without the fuss with Morel Mushroom Pasta. These unique mushrooms bring a new dimension to pasta night. There’s no need for a special occasion to enjoy this dish. It makes an ordinary night feel extraordinary.
Get the Recipe: Morel Mushroom Pasta

Creamy Beef Stroganoff

A close-up of fettuccine pasta with creamy sauce, reminiscent of Beef Stroganoff, paired with sliced beef, mushrooms, and sprigs of rosemary.
Creamy Beef Stroganoff. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A nod to classic comfort food, Creamy Beef Stroganoff is always a hit. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for a chill evening. This dish is a heartwarming option that’ll have everyone asking for seconds. It’s comfort food at its simple best.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Beef Stroganoff

Penne Alla Vodka

Two bowls of penne alla vodka, with Parmesan by the side.
Penne Alla Vodka. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Penne Alla Vodka proves you can create something amazing with minimal effort. When simplicity meets elegance, this pasta dish is what you get. It’s perfect for those nights when you want to impress without the stress. Everyone will be pleased, and your kitchen stays calm.
Get the Recipe: Penne Alla Vodka

Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Close-up of a pasta dish with corn, bacon, and herbs, seasoned with a creamy yellow sauce.
Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Combine sweetness and creaminess in one dish with Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta. It’s versatile and works well with whatever you’ve got on hand. Perfect for busy weeknights when time is tight. It’s a great way to include some veggies in a meal the kids will love.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Corn Pasta

Pasta alla Norma

A pot filled with penne pasta in a tomato sauce, topped with grated cheese, basil leaves, and herbs.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Embrace simple Italian charm at your dinner table with Pasta alla Norma. This dish is easy to love and even easier to make. It’s ideal for feeding a crowd or just treating yourself. A solid choice for any pasta lover.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Easy Chicken Casserole

A fork lifting a cheesy bite from a bowl of chicken casserole topped with bacon and breadcrumbs.
Easy Chicken Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Chicken Casserole is as simple as tossing ingredients together and letting the oven do the work. This no-muss, no-fuss dinner option is a lifesaver on busy evenings. It’s a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. You’ll wonder how something so easy can be so good.
Get the Recipe: Easy Chicken Casserole

Elevated Ramen Noodles

A bowl of ramen with soft-boiled egg, vegetables, and sesame seeds.
Elevated Ramen Noodles. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Forget the instant packets; Elevated Ramen Noodles take the classic college staple to new heights. This grown-up version is quick, easy, and budget-friendly. A way to enjoy a gourmet meal without breaking the bank. And yes, it’s far superior to your college ramen bowls.
Get the Recipe: Elevated Ramen Noodles

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

A bowl of creamy chicken pasta garnished with herbs, served with a side of rice and a small bowl of fresh parsley.
Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta is a thrilling twist that packs a punch. Spice up your pasta night and wake up all your senses. This dish is perfect when you’re looking to add some excitement to your evening. It’s quick to make, letting you savor your night even more.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spicy Chicken Chipotle Pasta

Homemade Lasagna

Close-up of a delicious slice of lasagna, showcasing layers of pasta, ground meat, tomato sauce, ricotta cheese, and garnished with chopped basil.
Homemade Lasagna. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Try making Homemade Lasagna for a dish that’s rich with layered flavors and comfort. Everyone comes together over this comforting dish that feeds the soul. And if you think it tastes good now, wait until you try the leftovers; they’re even better the next day.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Lasagna

Italian Pasta with Salami

A vibrant pasta salad with fusilli, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, black olives, and diced salami in a clear bowl.
Italian Pasta with Salami. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add a flavorful kick to your dinner with Italian Pasta with Salami. It’s easy, quick, and sure to have everyone asking for seconds. Shake up your pasta routine with this fun, Italian-inspired dish. Bring a little bit of Italy to your kitchen effortlessly.
Get the Recipe: Italian Pasta with Salami

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Nothing hits the spot quite like Mac and Cheese. This ultimate comfort food is creamy, cheesy, and super easy to make. Perfect for those days when you need a bit of cheesy comfort. A classic dish that brings simple joy to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Spaghetti Bolognese

A plate of spaghetti topped with meat sauce and a fresh basil leaf, accompanied by a fork on the side.
Spaghetti Bolognese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Beloved by everyone, Spaghetti Bolognese features slow-cooked goodness that fills the house with irresistible aromas. This timeless classic never fails to impress, whether it’s a family dinner or hosting friends. The warmth and heartiness of this dish are unmatched. It’s a warm hug on a plate.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Bolognese

Pasta Carbonara

A close-up image of spaghetti carbonara topped with grated cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Pasta Carbonara. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Get maximum flavor with minimal effort with Pasta Carbonara. This epitome of Italian comfort cooking creates something wonderful from simple ingredients. It’s the perfect choice for a cozy night in. Quick, easy, and absolutely delicious, what’s not to love?
Get the Recipe: Pasta Carbonara

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