No dinner plans? Noodles to the rescue!

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No dinner plans? No problem. Pasta is one of the easiest ways to put a meal on the table without much effort. Whether you have a box of spaghetti, some egg noodles, or stuffed tortellini, there’s always a way to make it work. Toss it with butter and garlic for something simple, mix in a quick sauce, or add meat and veggies for a heartier meal. It cooks fast, pairs with almost anything, and doesn’t require a long list of ingredients. Soups, casseroles, skillet meals—pasta can do it all. If you’re short on time or just don’t feel like making a complicated dinner, these recipes can help. Keep a few pantry staples on hand, and you’ll never be stuck wondering what’s for dinner.

Bowls of sausage tortellini soup with spoons and a bowl of kale.
Sausage Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Beef Yakisoba

Beef yakisoba noodles with veggies and pickled ginger.
Beef Yakisoba. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This stir-fried noodle dish is packed with tender beef, crisp vegetables, and a savory sauce that brings everything together. It’s quick to cook and great for using up whatever veggies you have on hand. The noodles soak up the sauce, making every bite full of flavor. Perfect for a fast and filling meal without a lot of effort.
Get the Recipe: Beef Yakisoba

Creamy Mushroom Skillet

A pan of creamy mushrooms and gnocchi.
Creamy Mushroom Skillet. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

A rich, creamy sauce coats tender mushrooms and pasta in this one-pan meal. It’s simple but full of flavor, making it a great option when you need something warm and hearty. Serve it as a meatless dinner or add chicken for extra protein. Either way, it’s an easy meal that comes together quickly.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Mushroom Skillet

Three Cheese Manicotti

Pasta baked in a dish with sauce.
Three Cheese Manicotti. Photo credit: Downsizing Dinner.

Stuffed pasta shells filled with a mix of cheeses, baked in a rich tomato sauce—this dish brings comfort without being complicated. The oven does most of the work, melting the cheeses into a creamy, hearty filling. Serve with garlic bread or a simple salad for a meal that feels like a treat. It’s a great choice for making ahead or feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Three Cheese Manicotti

Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles

A bowl of chicken and noodles next to a tureen of soup.
Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Tender chicken, soft egg noodles, and a rich broth come together in the pressure cooker for an easy, home-cooked meal. Everything simmers together, creating a dish that’s filling and comforting without a lot of time in the kitchen. Perfect for busy nights when you need something simple and satisfying. Leftovers heat up well, making it a great option for meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken and Noodles

Dan Dan Noodles

Dan dan noodles in a white bowl with chopsticks.
Dan Dan Noodles. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

These bold and flavorful noodles bring a mix of savory, spicy, and slightly sweet flavors together in one dish. The sauce coats every bite, and the ground meat adds just the right amount of heartiness. They come together fast, making them a great option when you want something a little different without a long cook time. Top with green onions and peanuts for extra texture and crunch.
Get the Recipe: Dan Dan Noodles

Sausage Tortellini Soup

Bowls of sausage tortellini soup with spoons and a bowl of kale.
Sausage Tortellini Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Cheese-filled tortellini, sausage, and a rich broth make this soup a satisfying meal on its own. The flavors blend together as it simmers, creating a dish that’s both hearty and easy to make. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a simple but filling dinner. It’s a great way to warm up on a cool day.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Tortellini Soup

Chicken and Noodles

A bowl of chicken and noodles.
Chicken and Noodles . Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

A comforting mix of tender chicken, thick noodles, and a savory broth, this dish is simple but always hits the spot. Everything cooks together, creating a rich, homey flavor with minimal effort. Perfect for a quick dinner or whenever you want something warm and filling. Serve on its own or with a side of biscuits for an extra hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Noodles

Turkey Noodle Soup

A ladle full of turkey noodle soup.
Turkey Noodle Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This is a great way to use up leftover turkey while making a meal that’s easy and full of flavor. The broth soaks into the noodles, creating a dish that’s comforting without being too heavy. Add in some vegetables for extra texture and color. It’s perfect for making ahead and warming up later when you need a quick meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Noodle Soup

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

A bowl of chicken and gnocchi soup with a spoon in it.
Chicken Gnocchi Soup. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Soft gnocchi, tender chicken, and a creamy broth come together in this simple but filling soup. The gnocchi soak up the flavors while staying light, making every bite rich without being too heavy. Serve with a slice of bread or a handful of crackers for an easy meal. It’s a great option for nights when you need something warm and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

A pan of creamy fettuccine pasta mixed with broccoli, garnished with parsley, next to a bunch of fresh parsley and garlic cloves.
Chicken Broccoli Alfredo. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

Creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and steamed broccoli make this pasta dish a favorite for busy nights. Everything comes together quickly, making it an easy meal that still feels like something special. Serve with garlic bread for a complete dinner. It’s simple, filling, and always a reliable choice.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Broccoli Alfredo

Beef and Noodles

A bowl of beef and noodles.
Beef and Noodles. Photo credit: Little House Big Alaska.

This dish is packed with tender beef and thick egg noodles, all simmered together in a rich sauce. It’s a hearty, no-fuss meal that comes together easily with just a few ingredients. Serve with a side of vegetables or crusty bread for a full meal. It’s the kind of dinner that always hits the spot.
Get the Recipe: Beef and Noodles

Buttered Noodles

A bowl of buttered noodles.
Buttered Noodles. Photo credit: Little Frugal Homestead.

Sometimes simple is best, and buttered noodles prove that. A mix of pasta, butter, and a little seasoning makes for an easy side or a meal on its own. Perfect for pairing with almost anything or just enjoying as is. When you need something quick and reliable, this one always works.
Get the Recipe: Buttered Noodles

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