Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, aromas, and hearty dishes. One of the most beloved staples of Italian cooking is pasta, and when it comes to making a delicious and authentic Italian pasta dish at home, it can be intimidating if you don’t know where to start. But fear not! With these 20 easy Italian pasta recipes, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pasta pro.
From classic combinations like spaghetti aglio e olio and fettuccine Alfredo to more adventurous options like pasta puttanesca and linguine with clam sauce, there’s something for everyone in this collection of mouthwatering dishes. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes are sure to satisfy your Italian food cravings.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 20 delicious easy Italian pasta recipes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to ensure that your pasta dishes turn out perfectly. So sit back, relax, and get ready to indulge in a culinary journey through Italy!
Spaghetti Aglio e Olio
This classic Italian recipe is a staple of Neapolitan cuisine, where garlic and olive oil come together to create a rich and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
• 12 oz spaghetti
• 4-6 cloves garlic, 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 cooking liquid 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 golden brown and fragrant.
3. Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta Carbonara
This creamy pasta dish is a staple of Italian cuisine, made with spaghetti, bacon or pancetta, eggs, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. With its rich flavors and velvety texture, Pasta Carbonara is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 slices of bacon or pancetta, diced
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, 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.
2. Cook the bacon or pancetta in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs and parmesan cheese until smooth.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the egg mixture and toss until well coated.
5. Add the cooked bacon or pancetta and black pepper to the pasta mixture. Toss until combined.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Penne alla Vodka
Penne alla Vodka: A Creamy, Spicy Italian Classic
This recipe brings together the bold flavors of penne pasta, vodka-infused tomato sauce, and a hint of heat to create a dish that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz penne pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then reserve.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in crushed tomatoes, vodka, heavy cream, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Bring sauce to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until slightly thickened.
5. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fettuccine Alfredo
Fettuccine Alfredo Recipe
A classic Italian dish that’s rich, creamy, and utterly delicious, Fettuccine Alfredo is a must-try for any pasta lover. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this mouthwatering meal in no time.
- Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Instructions:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
- Remove from heat and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss cooked fettuccine pasta with the Alfredo sauce and serve hot.
Pasta Puttanesca
Pasta Puttanesca is a classic Italian recipe that combines the flavors of tomatoes, garlic, olives, and capers with pasta for a savory and aromatic dish. This quick and easy recipe makes a great weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and chopped
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (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 heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add olives, capers, and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the flavors meld together.
4. Add reserved pasta water to the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with the tomato mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rigatoni alla Bolognese
This iconic pasta dish from Bologna is a staple of Italian cuisine, made with ground beef ragù, onions, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and Parmesan cheese. Serve with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) rigatoni pasta
– 1 lb (450g) ground beef
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, finely chopped
– 2 stalks celery, finely chopped
– 28 oz (794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) red wine
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 8 oz (225g) grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook rigatoni pasta according to package instructions.
3. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are softened.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, red wine, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Combine cooked pasta and sauce. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with parsley.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Linguine with Clam Sauce
This classic Italian dish combines the rich flavors of clams, garlic, and herbs with the comforting warmth of linguine pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (6.5 oz) chopped clams, drained
– 1/4 cup white wine
– 1/4 cup clam juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine 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 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
3. Add chopped clams, white wine, and clam juice. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes or until clams are cooked through.
5. Stir in reserved pasta water and parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Combine cooked linguine pasta and clam sauce. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta Primavera
This classic Italian-inspired dish celebrates the flavors of spring with a colorful medley of vegetables, herbs, and pasta. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a vibrant and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow tie or penne)
– 2 cups mixed spring vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, zucchini, mushrooms)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp. dried basil
– 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 directions.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and sauté 1 minute.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. If using white wine, add it to the pan and simmer 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked pasta and vegetable mixture; season with basil, salt, and pepper.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tortellini in Brodo
This classic Italian soup is a staple of Tuscan cuisine, made with tender tortellini, fresh vegetables, and rich chicken broth. Serve as a comforting main course or a satisfying starter.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 cheese-filled tortellini
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the chicken broth to a simmer in a large pot.
2. Add the chopped carrots, celery, and onion. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the tortellini and cook according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta alla Norma
Pasta alla Norma: A Sicilian classic that combines the rich flavors of eggplant, tomatoes, garlic, and ricotta salata cheese with tender pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz pasta (such as rigatoni or penne)
– 2 large eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated ricotta salata cheese
– Salt and freshly ground black pepper
– Extra virgin olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the eggplant slices with salt and let them sit for 30 minutes to draw out excess moisture.
3. Rinse the eggplant, pat dry, and brush with olive oil. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Cook the pasta al dente according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, combine the crushed tomatoes, garlic, and roasted eggplant. Simmer over medium heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked pasta and tomato sauce. Top with grated ricotta salata cheese and serve.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cacio e Pepe
Classic Cacio e Pepe Recipe
This iconic Italian dish is a masterclass in simplicity, with just a few ingredients coming together to create a rich and creamy pasta experience. With a focus on high-quality Parmesan cheese and black pepper, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 3 tbsp (45 ml) extra-virgin olive oil
– 3 tbsp (45 g) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup (120 g) grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
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, combine olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add Parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.
3. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet in small increments, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat with the Cacio e Pepe sauce.
5. Season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta al Limone
Brighten up your pasta dish with the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic. This classic Italian recipe is a perfect combination of simplicity and taste.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil to make the sauce.
3. Drain the cooked spaghetti and add it to the bowl with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Bucatini all’Amatriciana
Bucatini all’Amatriciana is a classic Italian recipe that originated in the Amatrice region. This hearty pasta dish combines rich flavors of guanciale, tomatoes, garlic, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) bucatini or spaghetti
– 6 oz (170g) guanciale, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup (30g) Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bucatini or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, cook the guanciale over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. Add the garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the sauce for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked bucatini or spaghetti with the tomato sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Top with crispy guanciale, Pecorino Romano cheese, and chopped parsley (if using).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Pesto Genovese
Pesto Genovese is a traditional Ligurian sauce originating from the city of Genoa, Italy. This recipe combines fresh basil, garlic, and pine nuts to create a vibrant and flavorful pasta dish.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1/2 cup Pesto Genovese (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt, to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large serving bowl, combine cooked spaghetti, Pesto Genovese, and Parmesan cheese. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Spaghetti cooking time: 8-10 minutes
– Total preparation and cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli
Orecchiette with Sausage and Broccoli: A hearty and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavors of sausage, tender broccoli, and perfectly cooked pasta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz orecchiette pasta
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the orecchiette pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the olive oil, garlic, and broccoli. Cook until the broccoli is tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked sausage back into the skillet and stir to combine with the broccoli mixture.
5. Add the reserved pasta water to the skillet and bring to a simmer.
6. Combine the cooked pasta with the sausage and broccoli mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pasta e Fagioli
Pasta e Fagioli Recipe: A Hearty Italian Stew
This classic pasta and bean stew is a staple of Italian cuisine, combining tender pasta, creamy beans, and rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound small pasta shapes (e.g., elbow macaroni, ditalini)
– 1 can (15 ounces) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil; cook pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pot, combine onion, garlic, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.
3. Add kidney beans, vegetable broth, and cooked pasta to the tomato mixture. Stir well.
4. Reduce heat to low; let stew simmer for 15-20 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Pasta with Mushroom Cream Sauce
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines sautéed mushrooms with a creamy sauce, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With its comforting blend of earthy flavors and smooth texture, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or spaghetti)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add mushrooms, onion, and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
3. Pour in heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Toss cooked pasta with mushroom cream sauce, then serve hot. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta alla Gricia
This rich and creamy pasta dish is a staple of Roman cuisine, featuring guanciale (cured pork jowl) and Pecorino Romano cheese. Serve with some crusty bread and a simple green salad for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 6 oz guanciale, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
– Salt and black pepper, 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 cooking liquid before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine guanciale, olive oil, and garlic. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the guanciale is crispy and golden (about 5-7 minutes).
3. Add the reserved pasta cooking liquid to the skillet and stir to combine with the guanciale mixture.
4. Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated.
5. Remove from heat and stir in Pecorino Romano cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto
This recipe takes a classic pasta dish and adds the bright, tangy flavor of sun-dried tomatoes. The result is a flavorful and quick-to-make meal that’s perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto sauce (see below)
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Pesto Sauce:
– 2 cups fresh basil leaves
– 1/3 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine sun-dried tomatoes, pesto sauce, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Toss cooked pasta with sun-dried tomato pesto mixture. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pasta with Burrata and Cherry Tomatoes
This recipe combines the creaminess of burrata cheese with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up in a delicious pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 1 ball of burrata cheese
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, 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-high heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Cut the burrata cheese into small pieces and add them to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors of Italy with these 20 delicious easy pasta recipes. From classic Spaghetti Aglio e Olio to creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, and from spicy Penne alla Vodka to hearty Rigatoni alla Bolognese, this collection has something for every taste and skill level. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing Pasta Primavera or a rich and indulgent Cacio e Pepe, these authentic Italian recipes are sure to become new favorites. Try them out tonight and experience the essence of Italy on your plate!
