15 Quick Pasta Dinners That Feel Fancy Without The Fuss

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15 Quick Pasta Dinners That Feel Fancy Without The Fuss

Pasta dinners are the ultimate lifesaver when you want something quick that doesn’t require a lot of thinking. Whether you’re craving something creamy, cheesy, or packed with fresh flavors, these recipes have got your back. No fancy techniques or endless ingredients—just straightforward meals that get the job done without a fuss. You’ll be dishing out dinner like a pro in no time, with minimal effort.

A bowl of pasta with kale and walnuts.
Red Lentil Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and prosciutto in a white bowl.
Creamy Tomato Farfalle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Need dinner in 20 minutes? This creamy tomato farfalle has you covered. With peas and crispy prosciutto, it’s quick, filling, and doesn’t waste your time.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese

Greek yogurt mac and cheese with peas and bacon in a white bowl.
Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Mac and cheese with a smart swap—Greek yogurt keeps it creamy and lighter. You’ll get that cheesy comfort without the extra baggage. Perfect for a quick, easy dinner.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese

Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Lemon pasta with spinach, feta and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Mediterranean-style pasta with lemon, spinach, and feta hits all the right notes. Easy, quick, and great for when you just need dinner to be done.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

One-pot, 30 minutes, and way better than anything from a box. Turkey, spinach, peppers, and real cheddar make this mac and cheese a weeknight winner without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Creamy pumpkin pasta with garlic and tuscan kale in a bowl with a spoon.
Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Craving fall vibes? This creamy pumpkin garlic pasta gets it done. It’s simple, cozy, and ready to squash any dinner doubts.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon ricotta pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil on a white plate.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Light, fresh, and fast. This lemon ricotta pasta is all about keeping it simple but satisfying. Basil, tomatoes, and ricotta make it great for any night you need dinner quick.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Red lentil pasta with garlic lemon greens in a bowl.
Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Red lentil pasta with garlicky lemon kale and a cheesy finish. It’s a fast, no-nonsense dinner that gets the job done without breaking a sweat.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Penne with Pesto

Penne with mint pesto and ground lamb.
Penne with Pesto. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Brown rice penne loaded with lamb and mint pesto. It’s hearty, fresh, and great when you need something that hits hard and fast.
Get the Recipe: Penne with Pesto

Soba Noodle Pasta

Soba noodles in a bowl with green onions, leeks and hard boiled egg.
Soba Noodle Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Budget-friendly soba noodles with onions and a soft-boiled egg. Simple, slurpable, and perfect for when you need dinner quick without the extra drama.
Get the Recipe: Soba Noodle Pasta

Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini pasta with shrimp in a white bowl.
Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This bucatini pasta with garlic shrimp and cherry tomatoes is ready in under 30 minutes. Great for when you want a quick, no-fuss meal that still delivers.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Five ingredients, 20 minutes. Bucatini cacio e pepe keeps it simple, creamy, and all about the basics. Perfect for when dinner just needs to be easy and good.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Brussels Sprouts Pasta

A bowl of pasta with bacon and brussels sprouts.
Brussels Sprouts Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Six ingredients, 25 minutes. Brussels sprouts, bacon, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes make this pasta the one you pull out when you need dinner done right and fast.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Pasta

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with vegetables and cheese garnished with basil on a table next to a pepper mill and a linen napkin.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This sun-dried tomato rigatoni with spinach is a meatless option that’s rich and ready in under 30 minutes. Great for a midweek dinner when time’s tight.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

Pesto Pasta alla Trapanese

Pesto Pasta alla Trapanese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Quick and fresh. This trapanese pesto made with tomatoes, nuts, and basil is your go-to summer sauce for pasta when you need dinner on the table without a fuss.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Pasta alla Trapanese

Creamy Almond Butter Fall Pasta

Creamy Almond Butter Fall Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Roasted butternut squash and broccoli rabe tossed in a creamy almond butter sauce. Add a buttery garlic cracker crumble, and you’ve got a dinner that’s simple but hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Almond Butter Fall Pasta

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