If you’re looking to shake things up at dinner time, consider exploring new recipes that revolve around pasta and rice. These staples can transform your evening meals into something to look forward to, breaking the monotony of your usual dinner lineup. With 17 unique dishes at your fingertips, you’re bound to find something that’ll refresh your dining table and maybe even become a new favorite.
![Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/chicken-fried-rice-finished-1-scaled-1.jpg)
Smoked Mac & Cheese
![A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Images-for-roundups-23.webp)
If you thought you knew all about comfort food, wait until you try this twist. Smoked Mac & Cheese takes a beloved classic and infuses it with a smoky depth that’s unexpectedly comforting. Perfect for when you want to shake things up but keep that homey feel.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese
Steak & Pasta Salad
![Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/steakhouse-pasta-salad-finished-1-1024x783-1.jpg)
Combining hearty and refreshing in one dish isn’t always easy, but this one nails it. Steak & Pasta Salad mixes tender slices of beef with the lightness of a pasta salad. Ideal for those meals when you can’t decide between light or filling – now you don’t have to.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs
![Two large bowls of tortellini with meatballs on a counter.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/tortellini-with-meatballs-finished-1-1.jpg)
Here’s where Italian tradition meets robust flavor in an unforgettable way. Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs brings hearty meatballs together with soft tortellini for a match made in heaven. Serve this up when you’re in the mood for something rich and fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
![Rotisserie chicken pasta salad in a bowl.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/rotisserie-chicken-pasta-salad-finished-1a.jpg)
Who says quick can’t also be incredibly delicious? Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad utilizes the convenience of store-bought chicken in a creative way. It’s the go-to for making a meal that’s both speedy and a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad
Brisket Fried Rice
![Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/brisket-fried-rice-resized.jpg)
Sometimes, leftovers make the most amazing meals, and this dish is the proof. Brisket Fried Rice transforms yesterday’s brisket into today’s savory masterpiece. It’s a brilliant way to reimagine leftovers and turn them into something spectacular.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice
Salmon Pasta Salad
![Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/salmon-pasta-salad-finished-1H-1024x792-1.jpg)
Here’s to those who love a touch of elegance in their everyday meals. Salmon Pasta Salad blends the richness of salmon with the light and airy feel of pasta salad. A perfect choice for a sophisticated yet easy meal.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad
Mediterranean Rice
![Mediterranean Rice in a black bowl on concrete.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/Mediterranean-Rice-horizontal.webp)
Transport your taste buds without leaving your kitchen. Mediterranean Rice is a vibrant dish that encapsulates the flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite. It’s a simple way to bring a burst of sunshine to your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice
Pesto Orzo Salad
![Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/pesto-orzo-salad-finished-3H.jpg)
For a dish that’s as beautiful to look at as it is to eat, look no further. Pesto Orzo Salad combines the herby goodness of pesto with delicate orzo pasta. Perfect for those who appreciate a meal that’s a feast for the eyes too.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad
Baked Spanish Rice
![Baked Spanish Rice in two black baking dishes.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/baked-spanish-rice-resized.jpg)
Dive into the warm and vibrant flavors of Spain with just one bite. Baked Spanish Rice is a no-fuss dish that delivers big on both taste and aroma. Serve this when you’re looking to spice up your dinner routine with something effortlessly delicious.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice
Arroz Verde
![Arroz Verde rice in a black pan with tomatoes and herbs.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Arroz-Verde.jpg)
Brighten up your meal with something green and gorgeous. Arroz Verde brings a refreshing twist to your table with its vibrant color and flavors. It’s the ideal side that adds a pop of color and a burst of freshness to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Arroz Verde
Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
![A bowl of skillet gnocchi with sausage and broccoli rabe.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Skillet-Gnocchi-with-Sausage-and-Broccoli-Rabe-horizontal.jpg)
Comfort food gets a bold twist with this skillet wonder. Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe is hearty, flavorful, and cooked all in one pan. Choose this for those nights when you crave something comforting but with an edge.
Get the Recipe: Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage & Broccoli Rabe
Chicken Fried Rice
![Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/chicken-fried-rice-finished-1-scaled-1.jpg)
Who doesn’t love a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat? Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile and satisfying way to turn simple ingredients into a meal everyone will love. It’s perfect for those evenings when you’re after something quick, easy, and delicious.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
![Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/giant-shells-finished-1H.jpg)
Get ready to be wowed by these not-so-little pockets of joy. Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells are all about the ooey-gooey goodness of cheese packed within tender pasta shells. Whip this up for a comforting meal that feels like a hug in a dish.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells
Ham Fried Rice
![Ham fried rice on a white plate.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/ham-fried-rice-resized.jpg)
Here’s a dish that proves simple ingredients can lead to big flavors. Ham Fried Rice uses staple pantry items to create a satisfying and effortlessly tasty meal . It answers your “what’s for dinner?” dilemma on busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto
![Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/turkey-and-pesto-stuffed-shells.webp)
Adding a twist to a classic, this dish brings something new to the table. Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto combines lean turkey and aromatic pesto for a refreshing take on stuffed pasta. It’s a wonderful option for a lighter yet flavorful meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto
Spaetzle
![A plate of Authentic German Spaetzle garnished with parsley.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Images-for-roundups-26.jpg)
If you’re curious about trying something different, this is your sign. Spaetzle is a unique and delightful dish that brings a taste of Central Europe right to your kitchen. It’s especially great for adventurous eaters looking to expand their culinary horizons.
Get the Recipe: Spaetzle
Greek Spaghetti
![A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.](https://tastesdelicious.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/greek-spaghetti-finished-4h-1.jpg)
Imagine the flavors of Greece intertwined with the comfort of spaghetti. Greek Spaghetti offers a delightful blend of Mediterranean flavors with a dish everyone knows and loves. This is the perfect meal for those seeking a comforting yet refreshing twist on a class.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti