Pasta nights can be a challenge for even the most seasoned home cooks. When the clock is ticking and hunger is knocking, it’s easy to default to takeout or leftovers. But with these 20 easy pantry pasta recipes, you’ll have a reliable arsenal of quick and delicious meals at your fingertips.
From classic combinations like garlic and olive oil spaghetti to bold and adventurous options like spicy tomato and anchovy pasta, we’ve rounded up the most satisfying and stress-free pasta dishes that can be whipped up in no time. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, these recipes are perfect for busy nights when cooking from scratch is a must.
Whether you’re a pasta aficionado or just looking for some new ideas to spice up your meal routine, these pantry staples are sure to become new favorites. So go ahead, toss that spaghetti, and get ready to dig in with these 20 easy pantry pasta recipes!
Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 4-5 minutes or until fragrant and lightly golden.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil mixture.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the noodles are well coated with the garlic and olive oil mixture.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional parsley or basil if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cacio e Pepe
Savoring Italy’s rich culinary heritage, Cacio e Pepe is a timeless classic that showcases the simplicity and elegance of Roman cuisine. This comforting pasta dish is elevated by just three main ingredients: Pecorino Romano cheese, black pepper, and spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3/4 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1 cup of pasta cooking liquid before draining the spaghetti.
3. In a medium saucepan, combine the grated Pecorino Romano cheese and reserved pasta cooking liquid. Whisk over low heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the freshly ground black pepper to the cheese mixture and whisk until well combined.
5. Add the cooked spaghetti to the cheese mixture and toss until coated, ensuring a rich and velvety sauce.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional grated Pecorino Romano cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato and Basil Penne
A classic Italian dish that combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and penne pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in the chopped basil and cook for an additional minute until wilted.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, tomato mixture, salt, and pepper. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lemon Garlic Pasta with Capers
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zesty flavors of lemon, garlic, and capers. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh capers
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the lemon juice and stir to combine with the garlic. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
4. Add the chopped capers to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the lemon-garlic sauce. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of many Italian households, and for good reason – it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and satisfying pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3-4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
– 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, for 4-5 minutes or until the garlic is golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the garlicky sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spaghetti with Tuna and Lemon
A refreshing twist on traditional spaghetti, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the brightness of lemon.
Ingredients:
• 8 oz spaghetti
• 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add tuna and stir to break apart. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and reserved pasta water. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with tuna mixture. Toss until well coated.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Chickpeas and Rosemary
This Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish combines the creamy texture of chickpeas with the aromatic flavor of rosemary, all wrapped up in a quick and easy recipe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add chickpeas, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chickpeas are coated with the rosemary mixture.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet if needed to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the chickpea mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Puttanesca Pasta
A classic Italian dish from Naples, Puttanesca Pasta is a flavorful and spicy pasta recipe made with olives, capers, garlic, and tomatoes. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, optional
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute or until fragrant.
3. Add sliced olives, capers, and crushed tomatoes. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the sauce if it becomes too thick.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and puttanesca sauce in a large serving bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with White Beans and Garlic
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines the richness of white beans, pungency of garlic, and the comfort of al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., penne or rigatoni)
– 1 cup cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add the cannellini beans to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to create a creamy sauce.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, bean mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Tomato and Anchovy Pasta
This recipe combines the bold flavors of spicy tomatoes and salty anchovies with a hint of garlic and herbs, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup anchovy fillets, rinsed and chopped
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add cherry tomatoes, anchovy fillets, and oregano to the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tomatoes have broken down and sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked spaghetti in the tomato-anchoovy sauce, adding Parmesan cheese if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Canned Tomatoes and Red Pepper Flakes
Looking for a simple yet flavorful pasta dish? This recipe combines the comfort of canned tomatoes with a spicy kick from red pepper flakes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the crushed tomatoes and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
3. Simmer the tomato mixture for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the tomato mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. If desired, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top of the pasta.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Noodles
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of butter, the pungency of garlic, and the comfort of noodles.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. noodles (such as fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 4 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp. butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Remove from heat and stir in remaining 2 tbsp. butter until melted.
4. Add the cooked noodles to the saucepan and toss with garlic butter mixture until well coated. If necessary, add some reserved pasta water to achieve a creamy consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Cook time: 12-15 minutes (including noodles cooking)
– Total time: 17-20 minutes
Pasta with Sardines and Breadcrumbs
A classic Italian dish that combines the savory flavor of sardines with the crunch of breadcrumbs, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (e.g. spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can of sardines in oil (drained and chopped)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sardines and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with sardine mixture.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top and toss gently to distribute.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Lentils and Caramelized Onions
A hearty and flavorful pasta dish that combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the sweet, caramelized goodness of onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., pappardelle or spaghetti)
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook lentils according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat. Add sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
4. Add minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional minute.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Combine cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Stir to combine.
7. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss with the lentil mixture until well combined.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pasta with Artichokes and Lemon
Elevate your pasta game with this bright and flavorful dish that combines the tender sweetness of artichokes with the zesty zip of lemon.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 large artichoke heart, canned or fresh
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the artichoke heart (drained if using canned) and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Stir in lemon juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and artichoke mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
A flavorful and vibrant pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the savory taste of garlic, olive oil, and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or fusilli)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roast the red bell peppers for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool. Peel off the skin, discarding it, and chop the flesh into a smooth sauce.
4. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Add the roasted red pepper sauce to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
6. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and toss with the roasted red pepper sauce.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped parsley. Serve with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Pasta with Canned Mushrooms and Herbs
This recipe is a simple and satisfying solution for a weeknight dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful pasta dish that’s ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) mushrooms, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with mushroom mixture. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Olives
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet flavorful pasta dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sliced olives to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once spaghetti is cooked, drain and add it to the skillet with the tomato-olive mixture. Toss everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Canned Clams and Garlic
A simple yet flavorful pasta dish that combines the brininess of canned clams with the pungency of garlic.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 can (6.5 oz) of chopped clams
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Pour in the canned clams, including the liquid from the can. Stir to combine with the garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the clam mixture. If the pasta seems dry, add some of the reserved pasta water.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Peas and Parmesan
Quick and delicious, this classic Italian-inspired pasta dish is perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 cup fresh or frozen peas
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic; cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add peas to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes or until tender. Season with salt and pepper.
4. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked pasta, pea mixture, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water if needed to achieve desired creaminess.
Cooking Time:
– Pasta cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-18 minutes
Summary
Get quick and easy pasta recipes that use ingredients from your pantry! This collection of 20 recipes combines simple ingredients like garlic, olive oil, canned tomatoes, and more to create delicious meals for busy nights. From classic spaghetti dishes to creative combinations with tuna, chickpeas, and sardines, these recipes are sure to please. Try Garlic and Olive Oil Spaghetti, Cacio e Pepe, or one of the many other tasty options to make dinner a breeze.
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