Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes and looking for some inspiration in the kitchen? Look no further! Today, we’re sharing 20 delicious meatless pasta recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From creamy garlic parmesan to spicy arrabbiata, and from classic fettuccine alfredo to innovative vegan mac and cheese, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some variety in your meal planning, these recipes are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion. And the best part? They’re all packed with flavor and nutrients, making them great options for anyone looking to eat healthier without sacrificing taste.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top 20 meatless pasta recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic comfort foods to international twists, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a pen and paper (or your favorite note-taking app), and get ready to spice up your mealtime with these mouthwatering meatless pasta recipes!
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta with Spinach
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines the creaminess of garlic parmesan sauce with the nutty sweetness of fresh spinach. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, sauté garlic over medium heat until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
4. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add cooked pasta and toss to combine.
5. Wilt spinach leaves by adding them to the skillet with garlic and cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Pasta
Roasted Red Pepper and Tomato Pasta: A flavorful and colorful pasta dish that combines the sweetness of roasted red peppers with the tanginess of fresh tomatoes, all tossed with al dente pasta.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 large red bell peppers, seeded and chopped
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup (60ml) olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss the red peppers with 2 tbsp (30ml) of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until the skin is blistered and charred.
4. Cook pasta according to package instructions.
5. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 2 tbsp (30ml) of olive oil over medium-high heat.
6. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
7. Add roasted red peppers, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato and pepper sauce. Top with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-55 minutes
Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta with Olives
This spicy pasta dish combines the bold flavors of arrabbiata sauce with the brininess of olives, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1/2 cup arrabbiata sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add the arrabbiata sauce and stir well to combine with the garlic and oil.
4. Combine cooked spaghetti and sauce in a large serving bowl. Toss to coat.
5. Top with sliced olives, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mushroom and Thyme Fettuccine Alfredo
Elevate a classic comfort dish with the earthy flavor of mushrooms and the brightness of thyme. This creamy pasta is perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fettuccine
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add mushrooms and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Sprinkle flour over the mushrooms and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add heavy cream, whisking continuously. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Remove skillet from heat. Stir in Parmesan cheese, garlic, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Toss cooked fettuccine with mushroom sauce. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Basil Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes
Brighten up your mealtime with this refreshing pasta dish that combines the zest of lemon, the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, and the fragrance of basil. This recipe is perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped basil leaves
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in lemon juice, basil leaves, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-basil mixture. Toss to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Pine Nuts
This flavorful pasta dish combines the richness of pesto sauce with the sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes and the crunch of pine nuts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1/2 cup pesto sauce
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, combine pesto sauce and reserved pasta water. Stir over medium heat until smooth and heated through.
3. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts to the skillet. Toss to combine.
4. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with pesto mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Top with Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Garlic Butter Mushroom Linguine
A classic Italian dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, butter, and mushrooms with the simplicity of linguine pasta. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz linguine pasta
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning, about 5 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
5. Combine cooked linguine with mushroom mixture, tossing to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to achieve desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
A classic Italian-inspired dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe combines the creamy richness of ricotta cheese with the nutritional benefits of spinach, all wrapped up in a tender pasta shell.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each cooked pasta shell with the spinach-ricotta mixture.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegan Mac and Cheese with Cashew Sauce
Vegan Mac and Cheese with Cashew Sauce Recipe
A creamy and comforting vegan twist on the classic mac and cheese, featuring a rich cashew-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup vegan cheddar shreds (such as Daiya or Follow Your Heart)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a blender, combine cashews, water, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
5. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
6. Pour in the cashew sauce and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
7. Stir in the vegan cheddar shreds until melted and smooth.
8. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and transfer to a baking dish.
9. Top with chopped parsley, if desired.
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
One-Pot Garlic Tomato Basil Pasta
A flavorful and satisfying pasta dish that combines the simplicity of one-pot cooking with the bold flavors of garlic, tomatoes, and basil. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (340g) pasta of your choice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (28 oz/794g) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup (250ml) chicken broth
– 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 the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and dried basil. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the sauce for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors have melded together.
5. Add cooked pasta back into the pot and toss with the tomato sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Avocado Pesto Pasta with Arugula
A delicious and nutritious pasta dish that combines the creaminess of avocado pesto with the peppery flavor of arugula. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 ripe avocados, pitted
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
– 4 cups arugula
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocados, basil, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.
3. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the spaghetti.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the avocado pesto and toss to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if needed.
5. Top with arugula and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Butternut Squash and Sage Pasta
This autumnal pasta dish combines the warm, comforting flavors of roasted butternut squash with the earthy essence of sage. A simple yet satisfying recipe perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage leaves
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated nutmeg for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with garlic, and season with salt and pepper.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender.
5. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
6. Toss cooked pasta with roasted butternut squash, chopped sage leaves, and Parmesan cheese.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg (if using).
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Eggplant Parmesan Spaghetti
Eggplant Parmesan Spaghetti Recipe: A Creative Twist on Classic Italian Dishes
This recipe combines the flavors of eggplant parmesan with the comfort of spaghetti, creating a unique and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add eggplant slices in batches; cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a separate saucepan, combine marinara sauce and cooked spaghetti. Toss to coat.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create layers of spaghetti mixture, eggplant slices, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sun-Dried Tomato and Artichoke Pasta
Savor the Mediterranean flavors of Italy with this quick and easy pasta dish, featuring sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and a blend of creamy cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (e.g., linguine or fettuccine)
– 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
– 1 can (14 oz.) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts; cook for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and heavy cream or half-and-half until smooth.
4. Combine cooked pasta with the tomato-artichoke mixture; toss to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and parsley.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Vegan Carbonara with Smoky Tofu
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, smoky vegan carbonara that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and crumbled
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
– 1/4 cup vegan cream (such as soy or coconut-based)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add crumbled tofu and smoked paprika; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in nutritional yeast and vegan cream. Bring mixture to a simmer and let cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and tofu mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Zucchini Noodles with Creamy Avocado Sauce
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional pasta, this recipe combines the best of both worlds: zucchini noodles (zoodles) and a rich and creamy avocado sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium zucchinis
– 1 ripe avocado
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your spiralizer or use a vegetable peeler to create zucchini noodles from the two medium zucchinis.
2. In a blender or food processor, combine avocado, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Cook the zucchini noodles according to package instructions or by sautéing them in a pan with a little oil for 3-5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Serve the zoodles topped with the creamy avocado sauce, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Pasta with Kalamata Olives and Feta
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this simple yet flavorful pasta dish, featuring kalamata olives and crumbly feta.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as penne or bow-tie)
– 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add kalamata olives and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until slightly softened.
4. Stir in feta cheese and cook until melted and combined with the olives.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine with the olive-feta mixture.
6. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Peanut Noodle Salad
A refreshing and flavorful salad that combines the creamy richness of peanut sauce with the crunch of noodles, all wrapped up in a tangy and savory package.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz rice noodles
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup peanut sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– 1/4 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked chicken, peanut sauce, chopped peanuts, and sliced red bell pepper.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce and honey until well combined.
4. Pour the soy-honey mixture over the noodle salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Lentil Bolognese with Spaghetti
This recipe combines the classic Italian flavors of a bolognese sauce with the added nutritional benefits of lentils. The result is a rich, comforting pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz spaghetti
– Olive oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, and carrot; cook until softened (5 min).
2. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
5. Combine cooked pasta with the lentil bolognese sauce. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Caprese Pasta with Fresh Mozzarella and Basil
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Caprese salad (fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil) with al dente pasta for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or bowtie)
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 8 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 tbsp. chopped fresh basil leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (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-low heat. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the sliced mozzarella cheese to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the tomatoes.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together to combine. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to create a creamy sauce.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and basil leaves. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your pasta game! This collection of 20 delicious meatless pasta recipes offers a flavorful journey around the world. From creamy garlic parmesan to vegan mac and cheese, there’s something for everyone. Discover Mediterranean-inspired dishes like sun-dried tomato and artichoke pasta, or try Thai peanut noodle salad for a bold twist. With options ranging from comforting classics like fettuccine alfredo to innovative creations like avocado pesto pasta, you’re sure to find your new favorite dish.
