Everyday Cooking

Everyday Cooking

40 Best-Ever Pasta Recipes

Updated on March 7, 2018 by Melissa Girimonte

If only everything in life were as reliably delicious as pasta. Whether you prefer simple spaghetti and meatballs, creamy fettuccine Alfredo or cheesy lasagna, this staple food always delivers. Celebrate Italy’s famous export with our 40 best-loved pasta recipes.

  • Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells
     
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    Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells

    <p>A pasta-lovers version of a favourite meal that’s on the table in an hour. A chicken Parmesan-inspired filling is stuffed into jumbo pasta shells, which are then coated in marinara sauce and smothered with mozzarella before being baked. It's a chicken Parmesan pasta bake the whole family will love.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-parmesan-stuffed-shells/21359/" target="_blank"><strong>Chicken Parmesan Stuffed Shells</strong></a></p>
  • Lemon and Pea Alfredo
     
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    Lemon and Pea Alfredo

    <p>Traditional pasta alfredo is brightened up with lemon zest, peas, and pink peppercorns. Giada skips the heavy cream and uses Mascarpone cheese instead.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lemon-and-pea-alfredo/20944/" target="_blank">Giada Laurentiis' Lemon and Pea Alfredo</a></strong></p>
  • Drunken Spaghetti with Black Kale
     
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    Drunken Spaghetti with Black Kale

    <p>The "drunken" element of this spaghetti comes from the addition of dry Italian red wine, which also gives the pasta its vibrant purple hue.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/drunken-spaghetti-with-black-kale/19474/" target="_blank"><strong>Rachael Ray's Drunken Spaghetti with Black Kale</strong></a></p>
  • Sausage and Eggplant Fusilli
     
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    Sausage and Eggplant Fusilli

    <p>Making a classic eggplant Parm could have you in the kitchen all day, but Giada brings that mouthwatering flavour to a simple, hearty pasta dish. Smoked provolone and sweet Italian sausage combine beautifully with seasoned aubergine, cherry tomato and fusilli.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sausage-and-eggplant-fusilli/21446/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Sausage and Eggplant Fusilli</a></strong></p>
  • Vegan Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo
     
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    Vegan Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo

    <p>Indulgent fettuccine alfredo gets a healthy, vegan twist by using eggless noodles, soy cream cheese, and nutritional yeast. It's a high-fiber, low-fat and dairy-free version that's as satisfying as the comfort classic.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/vegan-lemon-fettuccine-alfredo/20855/" target="_blank">Vegan Lemon Fettuccine Alfredo</a></strong></p>
  • Crab and Cherry Tomato Fettuccini
     
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    Crab and Cherry Tomato Fettuccini

    <p>Make any meal a special occasion with this easy dish from Giada De Laurentiis. Tender jumbo crabmeat and sweet cherry tomatoes are tossed with ribbons of pasta and finished with freshly grated Parmesan.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/crab-and-cherry-tomato-fettuccini-/21129/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Crab and Cherry Tomato Fettuccini</a></strong></p>
  • Rigatoni with Sausage and Fennel
     
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    Rigatoni with Sausage and Fennel

    <p>This comforting one-dish meal requires minimal fuss but the end result is heavenly. The combination of sweet Italian sausage, cream, white wine and fennel is both familiar and sophisticated and would be a welcome end note to a busy weekday.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/rigatoni-with-sausage-and-fennel/20409/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Rigatoni with Sausage and Fennel</a></strong></p>
  • Grilled Seafood Pasta Fra Diavolo
     
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    Grilled Seafood Pasta Fra Diavolo

    <p>Giada turns up the heat with this spicy, decadent dish that serves up the bounty of the sea with a tantalizing medley of grilled lobster, shrimp and clams.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/grilled-seafood-pasta-fra-diavolo/20382/" target="_blank"><strong>Giada De Laurentiis' Grilled Seafood Pasta Fra Diavolo</strong></a></p>
  • Puff Pastry-Wrapped Angel Hair Pasta Pie
     
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    Puff Pastry-Wrapped Angel Hair Pasta Pie

    <p>This deep-dish Italian pie conceals a hidden surprise inside: angel-hair pasta, combined with spicy Italian sausage, tomato sauce, spinach and melted mozzarella cheese. Make it once and it’s guaranteed to become a family favourite!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/puff-pastry-wrapped-angel-hair-pasta-pie/20872/" target="_blank"><strong>Puff Pastry-Wrapped Angel Hair Pasta Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables
     
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    Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables

    <p>Try doubling the recipe on this simple casserole dinner for a meal that keeps on giving.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-penne-with-roasted-vegetables/15496/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Baked Penne with Roasted Vegetables</a></strong></p>
  • Butter Chicken Lasagna
     
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    Butter Chicken Lasagna

    <p>Butter chicken and lasagna, two of the world’s most popular comfort foods, come together for meal that can only be described as crazy delicious.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/butter-chicken-lasagna/13129/" target="_blank">Butter Chicken Lasagna</a></strong>.</p>
  • Creamy Pumpkin Lasagna Rolls
     
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    Creamy Pumpkin Lasagna Rolls

    <p>Ricotta cheese, pumpkin purée and subtle inflections of nutmeg create a creamy main dish that's fragrant with fall flavours.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/creamy-pumpkin-lasagna-rolls/17589/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Creamy Pumpkin Lasagna Rolls</a></strong></p>
  • Bow Tie Skillet Alfredo
     
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    Bow Tie Skillet Alfredo

    <p>Cute, kid-friendly bow -tie pasta absorbs the creamy Alfredo sauce, providing playful contrast to juicy grape tomatoes and barely-wilted spinach.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bow-tie-skillet-alfredo/16612/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Bow Tie Skillet Alfredo</a></strong></p>
  • Mark McEwan’s Spaghetti and Meatballs with Veal and Ricotta
     
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    Mark McEwan’s Spaghetti and Meatballs with Veal and Ricotta

    <p>An Italian meatballs recipe is made best-ever, with veal, ricotta and Parmesan. A simple but stunning San Marzano tomato sauce and al dente pasta complete this eye-catching spaghetti and meatballs dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/food-network-canada-chef-school/recipe/spaghetti-and-meatballs-with-veal-and-ricotta/21293/" target="_blank"><strong>Mark McEwan’s Spaghetti and Meatballs with Veal and Ricotta</strong></a></p>
  • Mussel and Chorizo Pappardelle
     
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    Mussel and Chorizo Pappardelle

    <p>Homemade pasta turns this already over-the-top dish into a gourmet masterpiece. Don’t worry if you prefer using store-bought noodles — this dinner will still impress.</a> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mussel-and-chorizo-pappardelle/13504/" target="_blank">Mussel and Chorizo Pappardelle</a></strong>.</p>
  • Macaroni and Cheese
     
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    Macaroni and Cheese

    <p>Classic mac and cheese gets a fancy update from rich béchamel sauce and a herb-butter crumble.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/macaroni-and-cheese/14334/" target="_blank">Macaroni and Cheese</a></strong>.</p>
  • Turkey and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Arrabbiata Sauce
     
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    Turkey and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Arrabbiata Sauce

    <p>Don’t be intimated by this healthy pasta’s gorgeous presentation — preparing it is much easier than it looks.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/turkey-and-artichoke-stuffed-shells-with-arrabbiata-sauce/15503/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Turkey and Artichoke Stuffed Shells with Arrabbiata Sauce</a></strong></p>
  • Pasta ai Quattro Formaggi
     
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    Pasta ai Quattro Formaggi

    <p>‘Quattro Formaggi’ is Italian for ‘four cheeses,' but if a blend of fontina, Parmesan, Romano and goat cheese doesn’t entice you, how about savoury button mushrooms and fresh parsley on a bed of delicate angel hair pasta? <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pasta-ai-quattro-formaggi/16499/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Pasta ai Quattro Formaggi</a></strong>.</p>
  • Pumpkin and Pancetta Pasta
     
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    Pumpkin and Pancetta Pasta

    <p>Colourful, healthy and hearty, this gorgeous pumpkin and pancetta pasta is the perfect base for leftover roasted squash.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pumpkin-and-pancetta-pasta/14927/" target="_blank">Pumpkin and Pancetta Pasta</a></strong></p>
  • Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil
     
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    Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil

    <p>A light and bright shrimp-topped linguine gets added sunshine — and flavour — from its homemade lemon oil drizzle.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/linguine-with-shrimp-and-lemon-oil/15499/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Linguine with Shrimp and Lemon Oil</a></strong></p>
  • Swiss Chard Ravioli with Homemade Pasta
     
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    Swiss Chard Ravioli with Homemade Pasta

    <p>Fresh, homemade ravioli takes this vegetarian medley to the next level.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/swiss-chard-ravioli-with-homemade-pasta/15375/" target="_blank">Swiss Chard Ravioli with Homemade Pasta</a></strong>.</p>
  • Mark McEwan’s Ricotta Gnocchi
     
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    Mark McEwan’s Ricotta Gnocchi

    <p>A switch-up to traditional potato gnocchi, this pillowy ricotta version is lighter, easier to make and just as versatile. Served with a luxurious gorgonzola cream sauce, the Italian dumpling will be your new go-to for an extraordinary dish that’s a breeze to pull of.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/food-network-canada-chef-school/recipe/mark-mcewans-ricotta-gnocchi/21133/" target="_blank">Mark McEwan’s Ricotta Gnocchi</a></strong></p>
  • Mexican Baked Pasta
     
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    Mexican Baked Pasta

    <p>Italian pasta gets a dose of Mexican flavour in this easy fusion favourite.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mexican-baked-pasta/16838/" target="_blank">Mexican Baked Pasta</a></strong></p>
  • Real Meatballs and Spaghetti
     
    24 of 40

    Real Meatballs and Spaghetti

    <p>Veal, pork and beef create toothsome meatballs that are perfect for tossing with al dente spaghetti and a Chianti marinara sauce in this dinnertime favourite.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/real-meatballs-and-spaghetti/15417/" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Real Meatballs and Spaghetti</a></strong></p>
  • Turkey Tetrazzini
     
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    Turkey Tetrazzini

    <p>Turkey Tetrazzini is a classic use for Thanksgiving and Christmas leftovers, but it’s worth roasting a bird just to mix it with rich mushrooms and soft egg noodles, topped off with bread crumbs and toasted almonds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/turkey-tetrazzini/16993/" target="_blank">Tyler Florence's Turkey Tetrazzini</a></strong></p>
  • Anna Olson's Beef Stroganoff
     
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    Anna Olson's Beef Stroganoff

    <p>Forget the TV dinner versions — Anna Olson’s real beef stroganoff is nearly as easy and much more delicious.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/anna-olsons-beef-stroganoff/12806/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Beef Stroganoff</a></strong>.</p>
  • Beef and Cheese Manicotti
     
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    Beef and Cheese Manicotti

    <p>You’ll want to stuff yourself with this stuffed manicotti filled with ground beef and whole-milk ricotta, doused in a delicious Italian marinara sauce. <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/beef-and-cheese-manicotti/15447/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Beef and Cheese Manicotti</a></strong></p>
  • Cavatelli in a Cherry Tomato and Pancetta Sauce
     
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    Cavatelli in a Cherry Tomato and Pancetta Sauce

    <p>Fresh pasta ensures quick cooking time in this easy dish featuring juicy cherry tomatoes and salty pancetta.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cavatelli-in-a-cherry-tomato-and-pancetta-sauce/17304/" target="_blank">David Rocco's Cavatelli in a Cherry Tomato and Pancetta Sauce</a></strong>.</p>
  • Chicken Spaghetti
     
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    Chicken Spaghetti

    <p>Pantry staples and deli chicken come together for an easy, cheesy weeknight casserole that even kids can help make.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-spaghetti/15518/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Spaghetti</a></strong></p>
  • Chicken Tetrazzini
     
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    Chicken Tetrazzini

    <p>This hearty dinner is a saucy combination of shredded chicken, fresh peas and herbs.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tetrazzini/15457/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Chicken Tetrazzini<a></strong></p>
  • Goat Cheese Gnocchi with Pepper Coulis
     
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    Goat Cheese Gnocchi with Pepper Coulis

    <p>Rich goat cheese gnocchi is a creamy foil for the zing of smooth red pepper and white wine coulis.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/goat-cheese-gnocchi-with-pepper-coulis/9967/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Goat Cheese Gnocchi with Pepper Coulis</a></strong></p>
  • Ina Garten's Mac and Cheese
     
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    Ina Garten's Mac and Cheese

    <p>Nutty Gruyère ensures the sauce in this family favourite stands up to the toothsome macaroni and sweet roasted tomatoes.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ina-gartens-mac-and-cheese/15431/" target="_blank">Ina Garten’s Mac and Cheese</a></strong></p>
  • Lasagna Rolls
     
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    Lasagna Rolls

    <p>Lasagna noodles are an easy stand-in for cannelloni in this stunning recipe that features spinach, ricotta, prosciutto and alternating ribbons of marinara and béchamel sauce. Plus, you can make a double batch and freeze for later.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lasagna-rolls/15475/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Lasagna Rolls</a></strong></p>
  • Lobster Macaroni and Cheese
     
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    Lobster Macaroni and Cheese

    <p>Make your ordinary mac and cheese extraordinary with succulent chunks of lobster and buttery, crisp breadcrumbs.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/lobster-macaroni-and-cheese/5762/" target="_blank">Michael Smith's Lobster Macaroni and Cheese</a></strong></p>
  • Mushroom Ravioli with Asparagus and Tarragon
     
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    Mushroom Ravioli with Asparagus and Tarragon

    <p>A wine and broth-based sauce decreases calories while increasing flavour in this fragrant dinner.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mushroom-ravioli-with-asparagus-and-tarragon/12807/" target="_blank">Anna Olson's Mushroom Ravioli with Asparagus and Tarragon</a></strong>.</p>
  • Orecchiette with Mini Chicken Meatballs
     
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    Orecchiette with Mini Chicken Meatballs

    <p>Orecchiette, or “little ears” pasta, presents perfect little cups for trapping delicious combinations of sweet tomato sauce, soft bocconcini and tender, herb-infused turkey meatballs.<p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/orecchiette-with-mini-chicken-meatballs/15505/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Orecchiette with Mini Chicken Meatballs<a></strong></p>
  • Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream Sauce
     
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    Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream Sauce

    <p>Soft, pillowy gnocchi is the perfect base for a tangy Gorgonzola cream sauce. You'll be serving this to your family every week from now on.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/gnocchi-with-gorgonzola-cream-sauce/16395/" target="_blank">Gnocchi with Gorgonzola Cream Sauce</a></strong></p>
  • Turkey Bolognese
     
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    Turkey Bolognese

    <p>Lighten up a classic Bolognese sauce by swapping leftover turkey for ground beef.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/turkey-bolognese/16990/" target="_blank">Giada De Laurentiis' Turkey Bolognese</a></strong></p>
  • Penne with Basil Pesto
     
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    Penne with Basil Pesto

    <p>It doesn't get much simpler — or more delicious — than this pesto pasta. Whip up a gourmet dinner almost as fast as you can say, “presto pesto!”</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/penne-with-basil-pesto/13252/" target="_blank">Michael Smith's Penne with Basil Pesto</a></strong></p>
  • David Rocco's Spaghetti Carbonara
     
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    David Rocco's Spaghetti Carbonara

    <p>Carbonara is the lazy gourmand’s dream: rich and decadent, it’s ready in a flash.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/david-roccos-spaghetti-carbonara/16569/" target="_blank">David Rocco’s Spaghetti Carbonara</a></strong></p>
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