Bored with the same old pasta routine? Shake things up with 15 unique pasta recipes that bring a little excitement to your plate. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, these dishes deliver on taste without making you break a sweat in the kitchen. With a variety of options to suit every preference, these recipes make pasta night something to look forward to. Ideal for those who appreciate good food without the fancy fuss.

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Loaded with tender chunks of chicken and pillowy gnocchi, Chicken Gnocchi Soup is a comforting treat. The soup is thickened with a touch of cream, adding a rich, comforting angle to your meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or you just crave something soothing, this soup pairs perfectly with a crusty piece of bread. It brings warmth and satisfaction to any dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Easy Salmon Pasta Salad is an excellent pick for a quick, nutritious meal. It combines flaked salmon with pasta and a fresh mix of greens and vegetables, dressed lightly. Ideal for a lunch box or a light dinner, it stands out in its simplicity and health benefits. Plus, it’s especially refreshing during the warmer months when you want something light yet filling. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just whipping up a fast dinner, this salad checks all the boxes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Salmon Pasta Salad

Pasta e Fagioli Soup

A traditional Italian dish, Pasta e Fagioli Soup offers a hearty blend of pasta and beans in a tomato-based broth. This meal is often enjoyed during the colder months as it makes a filling and warming dish. The soup is studded with herbs that bring out earthy flavors, perfect for a family dinner. Serve it with a side of garlic bread for an extra touch of indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Fagioli Soup

Steak & Pasta Salad

For a hearty yet balanced meal, Steak & Pasta Salad is a robust option. It tosses tender slices of steak with pasta, fresh greens, and a vinaigrette dressing. This dish can serve as a fulfilling meal on its own or as a side to your main course. Ideal for outdoor dining or barbecues, it’s a crowd-pleaser that combines freshness with fulfilling flavors.
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Inspired by the famous restaurant’s hearty offering, Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup is rich with flavors of Sicily. This soup is packed with chicken, vegetables, and just the right herbs to recreate that authentic Italian taste. It’s a robust choice for anyone looking to bring a restaurant-quality meal into their home kitchen. Plus, it makes enough to have leftovers for the next day.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Carrabba’s Mama Mandola’s Sicilian Chicken Soup

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes brings bright colors and vibrant tastes to your table. The smoked tomatoes add a unique twist to the fluffy couscous and crisp vegetables. It’s a great side dish for grilling sessions or a light standalone meal. The salad is also quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Couscous Salad with Smoked Tomatoes

Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Bring the taste of a beloved Italian chain to your table with Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo. This pasta dish blends creamy Alfredo sauce with cooked shrimp, served over your choice of pasta. It’s rich, it’s creamy, and it’s utterly indulgent for a special dinner at home. Don’t forget to pair it with garlic bread for a complete dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Olive Garden Shrimp Alfredo

Salmon Pasta Salad

Refresh your mealtime with another variation of Salmon Pasta Salad. This version combines chunks of cooked salmon, pasta, and a mix of seasonal vegetables, all tossed in a light dressing. It’s particularly great for making ahead and serving at picnics or potlucks. The freshness of the ingredients makes it a favorite during spring and summer, offering a burst of vibrant flavors that everyone will love.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Sloppy Joe Casserole

Transform a classic American dish with Sloppy Joe Casserole. This hearty casserole layers traditional sloppy joe mix with pasta and is topped with cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making a comforting dish that’s enjoyed by both kids and adults. Plus, it’s an excellent way to make dinner a fuss-free yet hearty affair—perfect for those nights when you want something easy but still packed with flavor.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Enjoy a restaurant-style dish at home with Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka. This pasta dish features rigatoni in a rich and creamy vodka sauce, subtly tinged with tomato and just the right amount of indulgence. It’s perfect for those evenings when you crave something a bit more sophisticated yet still stupidly easy to prepare. Serve with a side salad and some crusty bread to round out the meal and make everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Il Fornaio Rigatoni Alla Vodka

Million Dollar Spaghetti

If you’re in the mood for something indulgent, try Million Dollar Spaghetti. This casserole combines the comfort of spaghetti with the riches of cream cheese, sour cream, and meats. Baked under a layer of cheese, it’s perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying leftovers the next day. It’s a simple dish that promises big flavors and hearty enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

For a lighter touch to your pasta repertoire, consider Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce. The gnocchi are tossed in a light lemony parmesan sauce, making them irresistibly tangy and creamy. It’s an ideal dish for those preferring a less heavy pasta but still wanting a filling and flavorful meal. Pair it with a green salad and maybe a glass of crisp white wine for a complete, balanced meal that feels indulgent without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Gnocchi with Lemon-Parmesan Sauce

Pesto Orzo Salad

Bright and refreshing, Pesto Orzo Salad is a fantastic choice for a light meal or a side dish. It mixes orzo pasta with homemade pesto and a variety of fresh vegetables. This salad is both visually appealing and tastefully versatile, perfect for picnics or as a side to grilled meats. It’s quick to whip up, making it a go-to for last-minute meal plans.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

For an impressive dish that’s sure to be a hit, try Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Large pasta shells are filled with a mixture of cheeses and herbs, then baked in a tangy tomato sauce. This dish is both visually appealing and deliciously rewarding, making it a crowd-pleaser for any gathering. It’s perfect for when you want to prepare something special without too much fuss, but still want everyone asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp

Adding a seafood twist, Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp combines orzo pasta with shrimp, fresh veggies, and a hint of citrus. This dish is as tasty as it is colorful, making it a standout at any meal. It’s especially good for summer gatherings or as a healthy lunch option. The addition of shrimp provides a nice protein boost, making it a more substantial meal.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Orzo Salad with Shrimp