Sick of soggy noodles? 13 al dente recipes for the pasta-picky

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Tired of mushy pasta ruining your meal? Say goodbye to soggy noodles with these 13 fantastic al dente recipes that even the pickiest pasta lovers will adore! Think about a perfectly cooked pasta with a delicious bite in every forkful. Whether you’re a spaghetti enthusiast or a pasta lover, these recipes cater to all tastes. So, why settle for bland and overcooked pasta when you can level up your mealtime with these mouthwatering al dente creations? Get ready to savor the pasta-picky delight!

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Steak & Pasta Salad

Overheat shot of steakhouse pasta salad.
Steak & Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Ever craved a salad that’s not just greens? Enter Steak & Pasta Salad, a robust mix of perfectly grilled steak and al dente pasta. Imagine the satisfaction of biting into tender steak slices combined with the firm texture of the pasta—all tossed together in a hearty salad. This recipe is a game-changer for those tired of bland salads and mushy noodles, offering a flavorful and toothsome experience. Whether you’re a meat lover or just seeking a more substantial salad, this dish is sure to please you with its lovely balance of flavors and textures. Get ready to redefine your salad game with this Steak & Pasta Salad!
Get the Recipe: Steak & Pasta Salad

Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Two large bowls of tortellini with meatballs on a counter.
Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a pasta dish that’s more than just noodles and sauce? Look no further than Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs. This delicious combination offers the best of both worlds—savory meatballs and perfectly cooked tortellini. The al dente texture of the tortellini provides the ideal foundation for the well-seasoned meatballs, creating a dish that promises a worthwhile and toothsome experience for those who take their pasta seriously.
Get the Recipe: Blackstone Tortellini with Meatballs

Million Dollar Spaghetti

Spaghetti with meat and cheese in a baking dish
Million Dollar Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want to take your pasta experience to the next level? Enter Million Dollar Spaghetti, a dish that combines the perfection of al dente pasta with rich, mouthwatering ingredients. This recipe is a game-changer for those seeking a luxurious twist to their pasta cravings. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that caters to the pasta-picky, offering a sophisticated and delicious alternative to the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Million Dollar Spaghetti

Salmon Pasta Salad

Salmon pasta salad in a black bowl with forks nearby.
Salmon Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Crisp freshness meets toothsome delight in Salmon Pasta Salad. Imagine al dente pasta mingling with the savory goodness of salmon, creating a dish that’s both refreshing and indulgent. This pasta salad is a game-changer for those who desire a break from the ordinary. The firm texture of the pasta, combined with the lightness of salmon, makes every forkful a delight. If you’re in the mood for a pasta dish that’s not only toothsome but also offers a burst of flavor, Salmon Pasta Salad is the answer. Say goodbye to dull meals and hello to a refreshing pasta experience that will leave you craving more.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Pasta Salad

Smoked Mac & Cheese

A skillet filled with Smoked Mac & Cheese.
Smoked Mac & Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a classic with a smoky twist? Smoked Mac & Cheese is the answer. It takes the traditional macaroni and cheese to new heights by infusing it with a smoky and creamy flavor profile. The al dente pasta becomes the perfect canvas for this masterpiece, offering a comforting and unique experience for those who want their pasta to be more than just a side dish—it’s a flavorful adventure.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Turkey and Pesto Stuffed Pasta Shells in a black cast iron dish.
Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For those who want a pasta dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto is the answer. Imagine al dente shells embracing a savory turkey filling, creating a delicious blend of textures. Pesto adds a burst of freshness, making this dish a perfect choice for those who appreciate a bite paired with the goodness of well-seasoned turkey. It’s pasta perfection for the discerning palate.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Pesto Orzo Salad

Orzo salad resting on a dark plate.
Pesto Orzo Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a pasta salad that’s light, refreshing, and bursting with flavor? Enter Pesto Orzo Salad, where al dente orzo meets the vibrant goodness of pesto. This salad is not just about greens—it’s a delicious mix of toothsome pasta and the natural freshness of pesto. Imagine the satisfaction of each forkful, offering a perfect balance of textures and flavors. If you’re someone who appreciates simplicity without compromising on taste, Pesto Orzo Salad is your go-to choice. Say goodbye to boring salads and hello to a refreshing pasta experience that will leave you wanting more. Get ready to redefine your salad game with this creation!
Get the Recipe: Pesto Orzo Salad

Sloppy Joe Casserole

A serving of Sloppy Joe Casserole pasta with meat on a plate with a fork.
Sloppy Joe Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving comfort in every bite? Enter Sloppy Joe Casserole, where al dente pasta meets the bold and savory flavors of a classic Sloppy Joe. It’s not just a casserole; it’s a journey through the heartiness of perfectly cooked pasta combined with the rich goodness of Sloppy Joe. If you’re a pasta enthusiast with a penchant for comfort food, this casserole is your ticket to a flavorful and filling dining experience.
Get the Recipe: Sloppy Joe Casserole

Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Rotisserie chicken pasta salad in a bowl.
Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Seeking the perfect balance of flavor and texture? Look no further than Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad. Imagine al dente pasta blending seamlessly with the succulent taste of rotisserie chicken. It’s not just a salad; it’s a hearty and perfect dish that caters to those who want a toothsome and protein-packed pasta experience. Each bite is a delicious journey through the harmonious blend of pasta and succulent chicken goodness.
Get the Recipe: Rotisserie Chicken Pasta Salad

Greek Spaghetti

A bowl of pasta with tomatoes, feta and kalamata olives.
Greek Spaghetti. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving the taste of the Mediterranean? Greek Spaghetti is the answer. This dish brings together al dente pasta and the freshness of Greek flavors in a delicious interplay of textures. It’s not just spaghetti; it’s a simple yet flavorful experience that transports you to the sun-soaked shores of Greece. For those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity in their pasta, Greek Spaghetti is the perfect choice for a pleasing meal.
Get the Recipe: Greek Spaghetti

Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Ricotta and Tomato Pasta in a white bowl.
Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Craving a pasta dish that’s simple yet bursting with flavor? Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is the answer. Picture al dente pasta adorned with the richness of ricotta and the freshness of tomatoes, creating a dish that celebrates simplicity and taste. This is not your average pasta recipe—it’s an experience for those who appreciate the beauty of straightforward yet delicious dishes. The toothsome texture of perfectly cooked pasta, combined with the creaminess of ricotta and the freshness of tomatoes, makes each bite a delight. If you’re tired of complicated recipes and want something that truly satisfies, Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes is the choice for you. Get ready to enjoy the perfect balance of textures and flavors in every forkful!
Get the Recipe: Pasta with Ricotta & Tomatoes

Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Broccoli Rabe and Sausage in a serving bowl with tomatoes in the background.
Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Looking for a pasta dish that’s hearty and robust? Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta is the answer. Imagine al dente pasta meeting the savory goodness of sausage and the earthy flavors of broccoli rabe. It’s not just about satiating your hunger; it’s about indulging in a dish that offers a worthy bite, making it the perfect choice for those who enjoy the heartiness of sausage and the crunchiness of broccoli rabe in every forkful.
Get the Recipe: Sausage & Broccoli Rabe Pasta

Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

Giant Cheese Stuffed Pasta Shells in two black serving dishes.
Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Indulge into the comfort of Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells, where al dente pasta envelops a generous filling of gooey cheese. It’s not just about shells; it’s a delicious contrast of textures. With every bite, you experience the pleasing crunch of pasta and the creamy burst of cheesy goodness. For pasta lovers with a penchant for comfort, this dish is a go-to choice that promises a flavorful and indulgent mealtime.
Get the Recipe: Giant Cheese Stuffed Shells

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