12+ Quick Small Pasta Recipes for Effortless Weeknight Dinners You’ll Love!
When the week starts to drag, and you need a comforting dinner without the fuss, small pasta can be your best friend. These quick recipes bring together delightful flavors and easy techniques, ensuring your evenings are filled with warmth and satisfaction. Let’s explore some irresistible dishes that will have you craving seconds!
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: Cream cheese, bow tie pasta, butter, baby spinach, parmigiano reggiano Total Time: 20 min.
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Simple, yet bursting with flavor, this Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta is a quick fix for any weeknight. The toasted garlic mixed with rich butter creates an aroma that will fill your kitchen with deliciousness. Plus, it’s quick to make and even easier to enjoy!
Bowtie pasta
Butter
Garlic, minced
Parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
This dish shines because of its simplicity and elegance. The combination of garlic and butter creates a comforting sauce that coats the pasta perfectly, making every bite a flavorful experience. Adding fresh parsley not only brings color but also a slight freshness that balances the richness. It’s a meal that feels fancy but takes just minutes to whip up!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Pesto sauce, ziti pasta, skinless chicken breasts, chicken broth, heavy cream Total Time: 30 min.
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Say goodbye to multiple pots and pans with this One-Pan Pesto Pasta! The vibrant flavors of basil pesto combined with tender pasta make for a dish that’s both hearty and refreshing. It’s a quick meal that’s perfect for those busy nights when you want something tasty without the cleanup hassle.
Pasta of your choice
Pesto sauce
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Parmesan cheese, grated
Olive oil
This recipe is a crowd-pleaser because it allows you to use store-bought pesto, cutting down on prep time while still delivering incredible flavor. The cherry tomatoes add a burst of sweetness, making it a delightful combination. Plus, the one-pan method means you can cook everything together, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan, and you’ve got a meal that feels gourmet!
Rating: 4.8. Ingredients: 30 min Total Time: 30 min.
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Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Spinach and Ricotta Pasta, where every bite is like a warm hug. The blend of ricotta cheese and spinach creates a rich, velvety sauce that clings to the pasta perfectly. It’s a comforting dish that’s as satisfying as it is quick to prepare.
This recipe is special because it combines the nutritional benefits of spinach with the creamy texture of ricotta, making it a smart choice for a quick dinner. As the pasta cooks, the spinach wilts and melds seamlessly with the cheese, creating a dish that feels indulgent without being overly heavy. Topped with gooey mozzarella, it’s a comforting meal that will leave you smiling!
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 30 Min. Total Time: 30 min..
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If you’re in the mood for something with a kick, Spicy Sausage Orecchiette is just the ticket! The robust flavors of sausage paired with the unique shape of orecchiette pasta make this dish a standout. It’s quick to prepare and packed with spices that awaken your taste buds.
Orecchiette pasta
Italian sausage (spicy or mild)
Red pepper flakes
Broccoli rabe or spinach
Olive oil
This recipe shines with its bold flavors and satisfying textures. The orecchiette, meaning “little ears,” captures the sausage and greens beautifully, ensuring every bite is a delightful mix. The spicy sausage adds warmth, while the greens bring a touch of bitterness that balances the dish perfectly. It’s a quick and hearty dinner that’s sure to impress anyone at your table!
Bright, fresh, and oh-so-tasty, the Caprese Pasta Salad is a perfect option for a quick dinner. Combining the classic flavors of a Caprese salad with pasta makes for a light and refreshing meal. It’s great for warm evenings and can be served warm or cold!
Pasta (like penne or fusilli)
Cherry tomatoes, halved
Fresh mozzarella balls
Fresh basil, torn
Balsamic glaze
This dish stands out because it’s incredibly versatile and can be made ahead of time. The sweet tomatoes and creamy mozzarella create a delightful balance, while the fresh basil adds a pop of flavor. Drizzling balsamic glaze on top brings everything together beautifully, making it not just a dish but a culinary experience. It’s a guaranteed hit that feels light yet satisfying!
