17 Pasta Dishes That Aren’t Just Noodles & Sauce

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17 Pasta Dishes That Aren’t Just Noodles & Sauce

Pasta has always been a favorite for many, but there’s a whole world beyond the usual noodle and sauce combo waiting to be explored. These dishes take pasta to the next level, incorporating a variety of flavors and textures that make each meal an adventure. From the first bite, it’s clear that these aren’t your ordinary pasta recipes. They’re the kinds that you’ll want to share with friends and family, proving that pasta can be the dining table star with a little creativity.

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

It starts off as a simple dish but ends up as a comforting bowl full of flavors. Every spoonful is a pleasant surprise, mixing tender chicken with the hearty texture of rice. It’s a go-to meal for nights when you want something satisfying without too much fuss. Our Chicken Fried Rice proves that simple does not mean boring.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This isn’t your ordinary mac & cheese; it’s a dish that takes comfort food to a whole new level. The smoke infuses the cheese and pasta with a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for those who love a twist on the classics. Our Smoked Mac & Cheese is always a crowd-pleaser, bringing smiles and requests for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining the savoriness of steak with the lightness of pasta salad creates a meal that balances each other out perfectly. It’s hearty enough to satisfy but still feels refreshing. Ideal for picnics or summer dinners outdoors, our steak and pasta Salad is a testament to how versatile pasta can be.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Two large bowls of tortellini with meatballs on a counter.
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a dish that pairs perfectly cooked tortellini with juicy meatballs, creating a match made in heaven. It’s hearty, filling, and flavorful with every bite. Great for those evenings when you need a little comfort. Our Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs is a cozy meal that feels like a hug.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Rotisserie chicken pasta salad in a bowl.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Combining the convenience of rotisserie chicken with the freshness of pasta salad offers the best of both worlds. It’s easy, quick, and deliciously satisfying. Perfect for busy weeknights or to pack for lunch, our rotisserie chicken pasta salad is a reliable favorite that never disappoints.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Baked Spanish Rice

Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.
Baked Spanish Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish brings a burst of flavors to the table, showcasing how rice can be anything but bland. Baked to perfection, it’s a side that often steals the show. It’s a versatile dish that pairs well with almost anything. Our Baked Spanish Rice is a colorful addition to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Arroz Verde

Arroz Verde rice in a black pan with tomatoes and herbs.
Arroz Verde. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Each spoonful of this green rice is fresh and full of life, offering a side that’s as beautiful as it is tasty. It’s a vibrant dish that adds color and flavor to the table. Perfect for brightening up dinner time. Our Arroz Verde is a delightful way to enjoy rice with a twist.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Light, refreshing, and filled with the goodness of salmon, this pasta salad is a summertime dream. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy seafood more casually and approachable. Great for gatherings or a simple family meal, our salmon pasta salad is a refreshing change from the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Imagine biting into a shell filled with gooey cheese, each one more tempting than the last. It’s a dish that’s both fun to eat and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for when you’re craving something cheesy. Our Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are a cheese lover’s dream come true.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Here’s a dish that’s as easy to make as it is to fall in love with. The pesto brings the orzo a fresh and herby flavor, making it a hit at any table. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Our Pesto Orzo Salad is a simple yet delightful meal.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Creamy Spinach Orzo

Creamy spinach orzo in a blue bowl with tomatoes nearby.
Creamy Spinach Orzo. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This dish combines the sauce’s creaminess with the tender texture of orzo, all while adding the nutritional boost of spinach. It’s a comforting dish that doesn’t weigh you down. It’s ideal for a cozy night in. Our Creamy Spinach Orzo is comfort food with a nutritious twist.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Spinach Orzo

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Filling shells with turkey and pesto results in a hearty, bursting-with-flavor meal. It’s a creative way to use turkey, making it stand out. Perfect for those looking for something different, our turkey stuffed shells with Pesto bring a unique taste to the table.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Spaetzle

A plate of Authentic German Spaetzle garnished with parsley.
Spaetzle. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This traditional noodle dish adds a touch of rustic charm to any meal. Each bite reminds us of the simplicity and richness of home cooking. It’s versatile, pairing well with a variety of sauces and meats. Our Spaetzle is a timeless classic that comforts the soul.
Get the Recipe: Spaetzle

Greek Spaghetti

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Infusing spaghetti with the flavors of Greece creates a dish that’s both familiar and exotic. It’s light and spicy, perfect for when you want pasta with a bit of a twist. Great for a refreshing change of pace, our Greek Spaghetti is a delightful fusion of two culinary worlds.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl.
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Simplicity shines through in this dish, where the fresh taste of tomatoes meets the creamy texture of ricotta. It’s a pasta dish that’s as comforting as it is light. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal. Our Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice on a white plate.
Ham Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Turning leftover ham into a delicious fried rice dish is a genius way to repurpose ingredients. It’s savory, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Great for using up leftovers in a tasty way. Our Ham Fried Rice is a clever and delicious meal solution.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Pairing the bold flavors of sausage with the slightly bitter taste of broccoli rabe creates a dish full of contrasts. It’s a hearty meal that packs a flavorful punch, perfect for an evening meal that satisfies. Our Sausage and broccoli rabe pasta is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

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