10 Must-Try Pasta Recipes for Italian Food Lovers

Are you a fan of Italian cuisine? If so, you'll love these 10 must-try pasta recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings for delicious and authentic Italian flavors. From classic spaghetti carbonara to creamy fettuccine alfredo and homemade bolognese sauce, this list has something for every pasta lover. Whether you prefer a zesty lemon garlic shrimp pasta or a rich pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, there's a recipe here that will delight your taste buds. Don't miss out on trying dishes like spicy arrabbiata pasta, lasagna with ricotta and spinach, and gnocchi with sage butter sauce. Indulge in ravioli with creamy mushroom sauce or opt for a refreshing pasta primavera with fresh vegetables. Get ready to enjoy a culinary journey through Italy with these incredible pasta recipes!

Classic Spaghetti Carbonara

If you're a fan of Italian cuisine, then you must try the Classic Spaghetti Carbonara. This dish originated in Rome and is known for its creamy sauce, crispy bacon, and perfectly cooked pasta.

Ingredients:

• 200g spaghetti
• 4 large eggs
• 100g pancetta or guanciale, diced
• 50g grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 50g grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining.

Prepare the sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.

Cook the pancetta: In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta or guanciale over medium heat until crispy. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine everything: Turn off the heat and add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta. Toss well to coat the pasta with the bacon fat.

Add the sauce: Pour the egg and cheese mixture over the spaghetti and quickly toss everything together. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs and create a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Serve: Divide the spaghetti carbonara into plates and garnish with fresh parsley and extra cheese if desired. Enjoy this classic Italian dish hot and fresh!

This Classic Spaghetti Carbonara recipe is sure to impress your friends and family with its rich flavors and creamy texture. It's a favorite among pasta lovers and a must-try for anyone who appreciates authentic Italian cuisine. Buon appetito!

Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo

Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo is a classic Italian dish that is loved by many for its rich and indulgent flavors. This decadent pasta dish features fettuccine noodles smothered in a creamy Alfredo sauce made with butter, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. The sauce is silky smooth and coats each strand of pasta perfectly, creating a luxurious and satisfying meal.

To make Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo, start by cooking the fettuccine noodles according to the package instructions until they are al dente. While the pasta is cooking, prepare the Alfredo sauce by melting butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a simmer. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Once the fettuccine noodles are cooked, drain them and add them to the sauce. Toss the noodles until they are fully coated in the Alfredo sauce. For an extra touch of decadence, you can also sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese and freshly ground black pepper on top before serving.

Creamy Fettuccine Alfredo is perfect for a special occasion dinner or when you are craving a comforting and rich meal. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp salad for a complete and delicious dining experience. Enjoy this timeless Italian dish with friends and family for a meal that is sure to impress!

Homemade Bolognese Sauce

Homemade Bolognese Sauce is a classic Italian meat sauce that is rich, hearty, and full of flavor. This sauce is traditionally made with a mixture of ground beef, pork, and veal, along with tomatoes, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, red wine, and a variety of herbs and spices.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 lb ground pork
• 1 lb ground veal
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 carrot, finely chopped
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• 1 cup red wine
• 2 cans (28 oz each) crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil

Instructions:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and sauté until they are soft and translucent. Add the ground beef, pork, and veal to the pot, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until the meat is browned and cooked through. Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for a few minutes to cook off the alcohol. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the sauce simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the Bolognese sauce over cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese.

Homemade Bolognese Sauce is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes. It pairs well with long pasta shapes, such as spaghetti or fettuccine, as well as with short pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. This sauce is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends and family. Enjoy the rich and satisfying flavors of this classic Italian sauce!

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and refreshing dish that is perfect for seafood lovers. This dish combines the zesty flavors of lemon and garlic with succulent shrimp and tender pasta. The bright and tangy lemon pairs perfectly with the savory garlic, creating a delicious balance of flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz of pasta (such as spaghetti or fettuccine)
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup of olive oil
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 1/4 cup of white wine
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes per side. Deglaze the skillet with white wine and chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the lemon garlic sauce. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve the Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta hot, with additional lemon wedges on the side for extra citrus flavor.

This Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a quick and easy dish that is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The fresh flavors of lemon and garlic will leave you wanting more! Enjoy this delicious seafood pasta dish with a glass of white wine for a complete and satisfying meal.

Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes

If you are a fan of fresh and flavorful pasta dishes, then you must try this delicious Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight dinner, yet it is elegant enough to serve to guests at a dinner party.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz pasta of your choice (such as spaghetti or penne)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup basil pesto
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook for a few minutes until they start to soften. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss with the cherry tomatoes. Stir in the basil pesto until the pasta is well coated. Add the pine nuts and Parmesan cheese to the skillet and toss everything together. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

This dish is bursting with fresh flavors from the basil pesto and juicy cherry tomatoes. The toasted pine nuts add a crunchy texture, while the Parmesan cheese brings a salty bite to the dish. Whether you are a vegetarian looking for a satisfying meal or a pasta lover in need of a new recipe to try, this Pesto Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta

If you're a fan of bold flavors and spicy dishes, then Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta is a must-try for you. This classic Italian dish features a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and red pepper flakes for a fiery kick.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of spaghetti
• 28 oz can of crushed tomatoes
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Cook the spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Make the Arrabbiata sauce: In a separate large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the crushed tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and season with salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Combine the sauce and spaghetti: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet with the Arrabbiata sauce. Toss well to coat the pasta evenly with the spicy sauce.

Serve: Divide the Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta among plates and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Enjoy this spicy and satisfying dish with a glass of red wine for the perfect Italian meal. Buon appetito!

Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach

Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach is a classic Italian dish that is a favorite among many pasta lovers. This rich and creamy lasagna is layered with flavorful ingredients that create a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Ingredients:

• 1 box of lasagna noodles
• 1 pound of ground beef or Italian sausage
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 jar of marinara sauce
• 1 container of ricotta cheese
• 1 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
• 2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Italian seasoning
• Olive oil

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and cook until translucent. Add the ground beef or Italian sausage to the skillet and cook until browned. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the jar of marinara sauce and let simmer for 10-15 minutes. In a separate bowl, mix the ricotta cheese and drained spinach. Season with salt and pepper. Cook the lasagna noodles according to the package instructions. In a 9x13 inch baking dish, spread a layer of the meat sauce on the bottom. Layer with lasagna noodles, ricotta-spinach mixture, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a layer of cheese on top. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let the lasagna cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this decadent and satisfying Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach with your favorite salad and a glass of red wine. Buon appetito!

This delicious lasagna is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion. The layers of cheese, spinach, and meat sauce come together to create a mouthwatering dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds. Try this recipe for Lasagna with Ricotta and Spinach and impress your guests with your cooking skills.

Gnocchi with Sage Butter Sauce

Gnocchi with sage butter sauce is a classic Italian dish that is both comforting and elegant. The pillowy soft gnocchi pairs perfectly with the rich and fragrant sage butter sauce, creating a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or as a show-stopping addition to a dinner party menu.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb gnocchi
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 10-12 fresh sage leaves
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, or until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.

Prepare the sage butter sauce: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter is infused with the fragrance of the sage, about 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn the butter.

Combine the gnocchi and sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sage butter sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi evenly with the sauce.

Serve: Transfer the gnocchi with sage butter sauce to serving plates. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

• For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of heavy cream to the butter and sage mixture.
• Feel free to garnish the dish with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for extra flavor and color.
• If you prefer a crispier texture, you can pan-fry the cooked gnocchi in a separate skillet with a bit of olive oil before adding them to the sage butter sauce.

Gnocchi with sage butter sauce is a simple yet luxurious dish that is sure to impress your family and friends. Its delicate flavors and creamy texture make it a standout favorite among Italian food lovers. Try this recipe for a taste of Italy in the comfort of your own home!

Ravioli with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Ravioli with creamy mushroom sauce is a luxurious and flavorful dish that is perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. The delicate pillows of ravioli are filled with a savory mixture of cheeses and herbs, complemented perfectly by the rich and decadent mushroom sauce. This recipe is sure to impress your guests and leave them wanting more.

Ingredients:

• 1 package of store-bought ravioli (or homemade if you're feeling ambitious)
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 tablespoon of olive oil
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 8 ounces of mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• 1/2 cup of chicken broth
• 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions:

Cook the ravioli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they release their juices and are golden brown, about 5-6 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly, about 2-3 minutes. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens, about 5-6 minutes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Add the cooked ravioli to the skillet and gently toss to coat them in the mushroom sauce. Serve the ravioli hot, garnished with chopped parsley.

This ravioli with creamy mushroom sauce is a rich and indulgent dish that will surely satisfy your cravings for Italian comfort food. The earthy flavors of the mushrooms combined with the velvety cream sauce create a harmonious and delicious meal that is guaranteed to please even the most discerning palates. Enjoy this dish with a glass of your favorite wine and savor the delightful flavors with each bite. Buon appetito!

Pasta Primavera with Fresh Vegetables

Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that celebrates the flavors of spring with an abundance of fresh vegetables. This colorful and vibrant pasta dish is not only visually appealing but also incredibly delicious. The combination of crisp-tender vegetables, fragrant herbs, and al dente pasta creates a symphony of flavors and textures that will delight your taste buds.

Ingredients:

• 8 oz. pasta of your choice
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 yellow squash, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions:

Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers, zucchini, yellow squash, cherry tomatoes, and peas to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are crisp-tender. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper to taste, and stir in the fresh herbs. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the vegetables. Serve the Pasta Primavera hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Tips:

• Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what is in season or your personal preferences.
• You can also add protein such as grilled chicken or shrimp to make the dish more filling.
• For a creamier sauce, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese at the end.

Pasta Primavera with Fresh Vegetables is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a light and healthy meal on its own or as a side dish to complement a larger spread. The burst of colors and flavors in this dish make it a standout option for vegetarian and vegan diners, as well as anyone looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet. Try this Pasta Primavera recipe for a taste of freshness and vibrancy on your plate.