17 Pasta dishes that belong in your recipe box

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By Tammy Camp

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Pasta dishes are the kind of recipes that work for just about any occasion, from easy weeknight meals to potlucks and family gatherings. I love how they can be rich and creamy, bright and fresh, or baked until bubbly and golden, all with simple ingredients. These are the ones you’ll find yourself reaching for again and again because they’re flexible, comforting, and always welcome at the table.

Marry Me Tortellini Pasta Salad

A white bowl filled with creamy potato salad, garnished with chopped green onions and halved cherry tomatoes, sits on a striped cloth.
Marry Me Tortellini Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Creamy dressing clings to cheesy tortellini with sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil tucked into every bite. It feels rich and comforting while still being cool enough for a relaxed dinner or potluck table.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Tortellini Pasta Salad

Chicken Pesto Pasta

A bowl of penne pasta mixed with creamy sauce, spinach, grated cheese, and red pepper flakes on a white surface.
Chicken Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Juicy chicken and tender pasta get coated in a smooth, herby pesto sauce that smells incredible the moment it hits the plate. It’s cozy and creamy but still fresh enough to feel like an easy weeknight favorite.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pesto Pasta

Italian Sausage Pasta

A plate of creamy macaroni pasta mixed with vegetables and garnished with chopped parsley, placed on a wooden surface.
Italian Sausage Pasta. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Spicy Italian sausage and roasted red peppers melt into a creamy sauce that wraps around every piece of pasta. Fresh spinach adds color and balance, giving you a hearty bowl that feels bold and comforting at the same time.
Get the Recipe: Italian Sausage Pasta

Feta Tomato Chicken Pasta

A plate of bow tie pasta with pieces of chicken, cherry tomatoes, and herbs, placed on a table next to a red napkin with a fork and knife.
White Wine Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Tender chicken and pasta are layered in a silky sauce with just the right touch of richness. The flavor is smooth and comforting without feeling heavy, making it just as fitting for a casual dinner as it is for company.
Get the Recipe: Feta Tomato Chicken Pasta

French Onion Beef Casserole

A plate of creamy pasta with ground meat, garnished with chopped parsley, served on a white dish over a green and white patterned cloth.
French Onion Beef Casserole. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Creamy French onion flavor runs through soft egg noodles and savory beef in this cozy bake. Crispy fried onions on top add just enough crunch to keep every bite interesting.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Beef Casserole

Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

A plate of baked lasagna topped with grated cheese and fresh parsley, placed on a wooden table beside a bowl of grated cheese and a striped napkin.
Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Layers of cheesy ravioli, sausage, and marinara bake together into something bubbly and rich. The mix of cottage, cream, and mozzarella cheeses gives it that ultra-creamy texture everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Ravioli Casserole

Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Pasta

A bowl of penne pasta with pieces of chicken, red bell peppers, and garnished with chopped parsley.
Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Pasta. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Creamy pasta and seasoned chicken come together with a gentle Cajun kick that adds warmth without overpowering. The sauce settles into the noodles for a rich, comforting bowl with a little personality.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Pasta

Pizza Pasta Bake Casserole

A baked casserole topped with melted cheese, pepperoni slices, black olives, mushrooms, and diced green peppers in a white dish.
Pizza Pasta Bake Casserole. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Think classic pizza flavors tucked into a cheesy pasta bake loaded with beef, pepperoni, and mushrooms. Every forkful gives you melted cheese and savory toppings in a way that feels familiar but extra cozy.
Get the Recipe: Pizza Pasta Bake Casserole

Chicken Noodle Casserole

A bowl of creamy pasta casserole topped with breadcrumbs and parsley, placed on a white surface next to a black-and-white checkered napkin and a metal spoon.
Chicken Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Tender chicken and egg noodles fold into a creamy base with pops of vegetables throughout. That buttery cracker topping adds a soft crunch that makes it feel like true comfort food.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Noodle Casserole

Baked Velveeta Mac and Cheese

Close-up of crispy, golden breadcrumbs covering melted, gooey cheese, showing a textured and appetizing surface.
Baked Velveeta Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Velveeta and sharp cheddar melt together into an ultra-smooth sauce that coats every noodle. A layer of buttery panko on top brings a golden crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy center.
Get the Recipe: Baked Velveeta Mac and Cheese

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

A bowl of rotini pasta salad mixed with corn, cotija cheese, red onion, cilantro, and lime wedges, served with wooden utensils.
Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Smoky corn, chili-lime crema, and cotija cheese give this pasta salad bold flavor from the first bite. The creamy dressing and charred corn make it feel vibrant and satisfying without being too heavy.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Greek Orzo Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Orzo mingles with crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, and briny olives in a bright red wine vinaigrette. The fresh crunch and tangy dressing keep it lively and refreshing.
Get the Recipe: Greek Orzo Pasta Salad

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Cold Pasta Salad)

Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Cold Pasta Salad). Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Elbow macaroni gets coated in a creamy, slightly tangy dressing with grated carrots mixed throughout. After chilling, the flavors settle together into a smooth, comforting side that pairs beautifully with grilled favorites.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Macaroni Salad (Cold Pasta Salad)

Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Crockpot Lasagna Soup. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Savory beef, tomato broth, and tender pasta create all the flavor of classic lasagna in spoonable form. Ricotta and melted mozzarella stirred in at the end give it that creamy, cheesy finish.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Lasagna Soup

Macaroni Salad

Macaroni Salad. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Creamy macaroni blends with crisp celery, red pepper, and chopped gherkins for texture in every bite. The tangy dressing keeps it balanced and bright once chilled.
Get the Recipe: Macaroni Salad

Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

A pot of chicken soup with orzo, shredded chicken, spinach, chopped carrots, and lemon slices, garnished with parsley. A spoon and an orange towel are on the side, with lemons and parsley nearby.
Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup. Photo credit: Trop Rockin.

Tender chicken and orzo swim in a light, lemony broth that feels fresh yet comforting. Carrots, celery, and thyme add depth while the citrus keeps it lively.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Pasta Alla Norma

Large pan of baked rigatoni pasta dinner with sausage, tomato sauce, mushrooms, and grated cheese, garnished with fresh basil leaves, on a woven placemat with cutlery beside it.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Eggplant and tomato sauce come together in a way that feels rustic and full of Mediterranean flavor. The sauce coats the pasta beautifully, giving you a hearty dish with rich depth and simple ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Pasta Alla Norma

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