13 quick pasta dinners to make before the Thanksgiving marathon

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The week before Thanksgiving calls for dinners that don’t need a five-course commitment—enter these quick pasta dishes that save time and sanity. With flavors that range from creamy to tangy to downright comforting, these meals come together fast, giving you one less thing to worry about.

A bowl of pasta with bacon and brussels sprouts.
Brussels Sprouts Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and prosciutto in a white bowl.
Creamy Tomato Farfalle. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Creamy tomato farfalle with peas and crispy prosciutto is ready in 20 minutes. A quick, filling pasta that’s great for a cozy meal before diving into Thanksgiving prep.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Tomato Farfalle

Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese

Greek yogurt mac and cheese with peas and bacon in a white bowl.
Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This Greek yogurt mac and cheese packs all the creamy comfort of the classic but keeps things a bit lighter. Great when you need a quick, no-nonsense meal before the holiday madness.
Get the Recipe: Greek Yogurt Mac and Cheese

Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Lemon pasta with spinach, feta and cherry tomatoes in a bowl.
Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This lemon feta spinach pasta brings Mediterranean vibes to your table fast. Perfect as a light vegetarian meal or with extra protein, it’s a no-hassle dish for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Feta Spinach Pasta

Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese with ground turkey in a pot.
Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Turkey mac and cheese in one skillet—think of it as a grown-up Hamburger Helper. Loaded with spinach, peppers, and real cheddar, it’s a great 30-minute meal to keep things easy this week.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Skillet Mac and Cheese

Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Creamy pumpkin pasta with garlic and tuscan kale in a bowl with a spoon.
Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

A creamy pumpkin garlic pasta that’s perfect for fall. Ready in minutes and packed with cozy flavor, it’s a great choice to ease into the season without much work.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Garlic Pasta

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon ricotta pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil on a white plate.
Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lemon ricotta pasta keeps it light and fresh with creamy ricotta, basil, and tomatoes. Perfect for a quick weeknight fix with a bit of brightness before the big holiday feast.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Red lentil pasta with garlic lemon greens in a bowl.
Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Lentil pasta topped with garlicky lemon kale and cheese. This one’s an easy, filling option that’s packed with flavor, perfect for keeping dinner simple and quick.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Pasta with Garlicky Greens

Soba Noodle Pasta

Soba noodles in a bowl with green onions, leeks and hard boiled egg.
Soba Noodle Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

These soba noodles with onions and a soft-boiled egg are budget-friendly and quick to make. Great for when you need a no-fuss dinner in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Soba Noodle Pasta

Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Bucatini pasta with shrimp in a white bowl.
Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bucatini tossed with garlic shrimp and cherry tomatoes, ready in under 30 minutes. A fast, flavorful dish that feels like a treat without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini with Garlic Shrimp

Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Ground beef pasta skillet garnished with parsley.
Ground Beef Pasta Skillet. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

This ground beef pasta skillet is a hearty, one-pan meal that tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. Perfect for when you want a cozy dinner but don’t have all night.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef Pasta Skillet

Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Bucatini cacio e pepe in a bowl with a gold fork and a pepper mill off to the side.
Bucatini Cacio e Pepe. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Bucatini cacio e pepe uses just five ingredients but delivers a creamy, indulgent meal. Perfect for a fast, budget-friendly dinner when you’re saving energy for Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Bucatini Cacio e Pepe

Brussels Sprouts Pasta

A bowl of pasta with bacon and brussels sprouts.
Brussels Sprouts Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Brussels sprouts pasta comes together in 25 minutes with just six ingredients, bacon, and sun-dried tomatoes. Great for a quick weeknight dinner that still feels like something special.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts Pasta

Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

A bowl of pasta with vegetables and cheese garnished with basil on a table next to a pepper mill and a linen napkin.
Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Sun-dried tomato pasta with al dente rigatoni, creamy sauce, and baby spinach. Ready in less than 30 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick comfort meal before the holiday rush.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Pasta

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