12 Budget-Friendly Pasta Recipes For Busy Weeknights

Busy weeknights don’t have to mean sacrificing good food for convenience. These 12 budget-friendly pasta recipes are perfect for whipping up quick, tasty meals that won’t break the bank. From classic favorites to creative twists, these dishes are simple to prepare and packed with flavor, making them the ideal choice for hectic evenings.

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances the richness of cream with the freshness of tomatoes and basil. This easy-to-make recipe is savory and comforting, making it a great choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal in under 30 minutes. The vibrant flavors of fresh basil paired with the creamy sauce create a satisfying experience that will leave everyone at the table happy and full.

Ingredients

• 8 oz pasta of your choice
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Tomatoes: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then, add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Create the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and chopped basil to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated.
5. Serve: Dish out your creamy tomato basil pasta and garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil if desired.

Pasta with Spinach and Feta

This Pasta with Spinach and Feta is a delightful dish that’s both quick and flavorful. The creamy feta cheese pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach, creating a light yet satisfying meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time.

The combination of tender pasta, wilted spinach, and tangy feta results in a comforting dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, making it an ideal choice for any family meal.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Spinach: In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Combine: Return the cooked pasta to the pot with the spinach. Toss to combine, then add crumbled feta, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix well and heat through.
4. Serve: Plate the pasta and enjoy your delicious meal!

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a flavorful meal that celebrates the robust taste of garlic and the warmth of red pepper flakes. This dish is not only easy to make, but it also packs a punch in terms of flavor—a true crowd-pleaser!

What really makes this pasta shine is the combination of al dente spaghetti tossed in a fragrant garlic-infused olive oil, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dash of red pepper flakes, which adds a delightful kick. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that you can have on the table in under 20 minutes.

Ingredients

• 400g spaghetti
• 6 cloves of garlic, sliced
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Spaghetti: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.
2. Prepare the Garlic Oil: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and sauté until it turns golden brown, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the Pasta: Toss the drained spaghetti into the skillet with the garlic oil. Add the red pepper flakes and a splash of the reserved pasta water to help the sauce adhere to the pasta.
4. Season and Serve: Toss everything together, seasoning with salt to taste. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Vegetable Pasta Primavera

Pasta Primavera is a fresh and colorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With a mix of vibrant vegetables and a light sauce, it brings a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrients, making it a great choice for a quick family meal.

The beauty of Pasta Primavera lies in its versatility. You can use any vegetables you have on hand, from bell peppers to zucchini, making it a budget-friendly option. Tossed with your favorite pasta and a sprinkle of herbs, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Then add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli, cooking for 5-7 minutes until tender.
3. Add Tomatoes: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and season with salt and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften.
4. Toss Everything Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing well to combine. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss again.
5. Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy your Vegetable Pasta Primavera!

Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Butter Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that balances the fresh flavors of seafood with the zesty brightness of lemon. It’s creamy, buttery, and has a hint of garlic, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick and easy to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe combines tender shrimp with al dente spaghetti, all tossed in a luscious lemon butter sauce. The result is a plate of pasta that feels elegant yet comes together in just about 30 minutes. It’s a fantastic way to treat yourself or impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add Lemon: Stir in the lemon zest and juice, along with a bit of reserved pasta water to create a light sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce, adding more pasta water if needed to achieve your desired consistency.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately for a quick, satisfying meal.

Pasta Carbonara with Eggs

Pasta Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that combines creamy textures with a rich, savory flavor. Using just a few ingredients—pasta, eggs, cheese, and pancetta—this recipe is not only quick to prepare but also satisfies hunger without breaking the bank. Perfect for busy weeknights, the ingredients come together in a way that is both simple and delicious.

The key to a great Carbonara is the timing. You want the eggs to create a silky sauce without scrambling. With a little practice, you’ll have a gourmet meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 12 ounces spaghetti
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese
• 4 ounces pancetta or guanciale, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
• Salt, for pasta water

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
2. Prepare the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and grated cheese until smooth. Set aside.
3. Cook the Pancetta: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the diced pancetta and cook until it’s crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Combine: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta. Remove from heat, then quickly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing vigorously to create a creamy sauce. If the mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
5. Season: Finish with black pepper and more cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Sausage and Peppers Pasta

Sausage and Peppers Pasta is a quick and satisfying dish that brings together savory sausage, sweet bell peppers, and perfectly cooked pasta. The mix of flavors creates a delightful meal that’s both hearty and comforting, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

This recipe is simple to prepare and takes less than 30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy a delicious homemade dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. It’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you have on hand, and it’s sure to please the entire family!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (sliced)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil water in a large pot and add the pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Sausage: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the sliced bell peppers and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the peppers are tender.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, tossing everything together until well combined and heated through.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious sausage and peppers pasta!

Tuna Pasta Salad

Tuna pasta salad is a light and refreshing dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It combines tender pasta, flaky tuna, and fresh vegetables, making it both satisfying and nutritious. The flavors are simple yet delicious, with a hint of tang from a dressing that brings everything together.

This recipe is easy to whip up in just a few minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings when you want to put something tasty on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, so you can enjoy a hearty meal without breaking the bank!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces pasta (any shape you like)
• 1 can tuna (drained)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/2 cup black olives (sliced)
• 1/4 cup red onion (diced)
• 1 cup fresh spinach or arugula
• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, olives, red onion, and spinach.
3. Prepare Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pour it over the pasta mixture and toss gently to combine.
4. Serve: Chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes before serving, or enjoy it right away!

Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Bake

This Cheesy Broccoli Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that combines pasta, fresh broccoli, and melty cheese for a fantastic flavor experience. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s simple to make and offers a delicious way to get veggies into your meal.

The combination of creamy cheese and tender broccoli makes this bake not only filling but also satisfying to the whole family. You can easily tweak the ingredients based on what you have at home, making it a versatile option for any pantry.

Ingredients

• 8 oz. penne pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta and broccoli with marinara sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is well coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle both the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and cheesy pasta bake!

One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta

One-Pot Garlic Parmesan Pasta is a creamy and comforting dish that hits all the right notes for a busy weeknight dinner. With its rich, garlicky flavor and the nutty profile of Parmesan cheese, this meal is both satisfying and quick to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic evenings.

This recipe requires just one pot, which means minimal cleanup! It’s easy to customize, so feel free to add your favorite veggies or proteins. You’ll be enjoying a delicious dinner in no time.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine the uncooked pasta, broth, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
3. Stir in the butter and Parmesan cheese until well combined. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve warm.

Pasta with Garlic and Broccoli

Pasta with Garlic and Broccoli is a simple yet satisfying dish that packs a punch of flavor. The combination of fresh garlic and tender broccoli creates a deliciously light meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick to prepare and requires minimal ingredients, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing taste.

This dish is not only healthy but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite pasta or add in proteins like chicken or shrimp. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta while keeping things fresh and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your choice of pasta
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions. About 3 minutes before the pasta is done, add the broccoli florets to the pot.
2. Prepare the Garlic: While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Combine: Once the pasta and broccoli are cooked, drain them and add them directly to the skillet with the garlic. Toss to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve: Transfer to serving bowls, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy your quick and easy pasta dish!

Chickpea Pasta with Spinach

This Chickpea Pasta with Spinach is a tasty and nutritious dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With its nutty flavor from the chickpeas and the freshness of spinach, it offers a delightful mix of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, making it a go-to for those nights when you’re short on time.

This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also packs a punch of protein and fiber, thanks to the chickpeas. You’ll love how quickly it comes together—just cook the pasta, sauté the spinach, and mix everything in a bowl. It’s an easy, budget-friendly meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 8 oz chickpea pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the chickpea pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the spinach and cook until wilted.
3. Add Chickpeas: Stir in the chickpeas and heat through, about 2-3 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well mixed. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve: Divide into bowls and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy!