10 Inexpensive and Delicious Pasta Recipes You Need to Try

If you’re looking for budget-friendly pasta dishes that don’t skimp on flavor, you’re in the right place! These 10 inexpensive but delicious pasta recipes are perfect for quick weeknight dinners or cozy weekend meals. Get ready to whip up some satisfying plates that will keep both your wallet and your taste buds happy!

Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach

This Garlic Butter Pasta with Spinach is a quick and tasty meal that comes together in no time. With its rich buttery flavor infused with garlic, it strikes a perfect balance with the freshness of spinach. It’s simple to make, making it a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

The combination of al dente pasta, sautéed garlic, and vibrant spinach creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, you'll find yourself wanting to make this again and again. Best of all, it’s budget-friendly, making it a win for your wallet!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups fresh spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Combine: Add the drained pasta back into the pot, tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious, money-saving meal!

One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta

This One-Pot Tomato Basil Pasta is a simple, flavorful dish that captures the essence of fresh ingredients. With juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil, it's a delightful blend that feels both comforting and refreshing. It’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight meal that won’t break the bank.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Everything cooks together in one pot, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while saving you time on clean-up. You’ll enjoy the vibrant taste without the fuss, making it a must-try for anyone looking for delicious and inexpensive meal options.

Ingredients

• 12 ounces penne pasta
• 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, add the penne pasta, cherry tomatoes, vegetable broth, olive oil, garlic, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Pasta: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked and the liquid has mostly absorbed.
3. Add Basil: Remove the pot from heat and stir in the fresh basil leaves. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Serve: Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy your delicious one-pot meal!

Pasta Aglio e Olio

Pasta Aglio e Olio is a classic Italian dish that packs a punch with its simple yet bold flavors. Made with just a few ingredients—garlic, olive oil, and chili flakes—it's a quick meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. The garlic is sautéed until golden, releasing a delicious aroma that makes this dish irresistible.

This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also budget-friendly, making it a perfect choice for those looking to enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. The result is a comforting, flavorful pasta that feels elegant yet is incredibly satisfying.

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta

Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the bright flavors of lemon with the rich taste of garlic and shrimp. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly satisfying, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The freshness of the lemon and the savory notes from the garlic complement the shrimp beautifully, creating a dish that feels indulgent without breaking the bank. Plus, it’s simple enough for anyone to whip up in no time!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 lemon, zested and juiced
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Shrimp: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the minced garlic and crushed red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the shrimp, seasoning with salt and pepper, and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Add the Lemon: Once the shrimp are cooked, add the lemon zest and juice to the skillet, stirring to combine.
4. Toss with Pasta: Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet, tossing everything together to coat the pasta with the lemon-garlic sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with additional parsley and lemon wedges if desired. Enjoy your delicious, budget-friendly meal!

Pasta Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables

Pasta Primavera is a delightful dish that showcases the freshness of seasonal vegetables. It’s light, colorful, and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends. The combination of pasta and veggies creates a harmony that is both satisfying and nutritious.

This recipe is simple and can be customized with whatever vegetables are in season, making it not just delicious but also budget-friendly. You can whip it up in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent option for those busy days. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to eat your greens!

Ingredients

• 8 ounces of your favorite pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine, or penne)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the sliced bell pepper, zucchini, broccoli, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Tomatoes: Toss in the cherry tomatoes and let them cook for another 2-3 minutes until they soften slightly.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves before enjoying.

Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Peas

Creamy Alfredo Pasta with Peas is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of a creamy sauce and the fresh crunch of peas. This meal is not only tasty but also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The creamy sauce coats the pasta beautifully, and the sweet peas add a pop of color and nutrition.

You don’t need to break the bank to enjoy this comforting meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious plate of pasta that everyone will love. It's a crowd-pleaser that works for both families and gatherings.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
3. Combine: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Add the frozen peas and cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
4. Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Vegetable Pasta Bake

This Vegetable Pasta Bake is a delightful mix of flavors and textures, perfect for a family meal. It features pasta combined with a variety of colorful vegetables, all baked together with a cheesy topping that melts to perfection. It’s simple to prepare and makes for a cozy dish that everyone will enjoy.

With minimal prep time and affordable ingredients, this recipe is not only budget-friendly but also a great way to sneak in some veggies. Plus, it’s versatile; you can customize it based on what you have in your pantry. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked pasta (any shape)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup spinach, chopped
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, zucchini, bell pepper, spinach, marinara sauce, and Italian seasoning. Mix well and season with salt and pepper.
3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly over the top.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
5. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious and economical vegetable pasta bake!

Mushroom and Spinach Pasta

Mushroom and spinach pasta brings together earthy flavors and a vibrant pop of green, resulting in a dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. The combination of sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach creates a delightful blend that pairs perfectly with your choice of pasta. Plus, it's a breeze to make, making it an ideal option for those busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

This recipe is not only easy on the wallet but also packed with taste. The simple ingredients let the natural flavors shine through, making it a fantastic meal that won't break the bank. Enjoy a comforting bowl of pasta that you can whip up in just under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and dried
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a little pasta water.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and red pepper flakes, cooking until the mushrooms are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Spinach: Stir in the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine with the mushroom and spinach mixture. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help bring it all together.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving. Enjoy your delicious, money-saving meal!

Pasta with Tuna and Capers

This Pasta with Tuna and Capers is a quick and tasty dish that brings together the briny flavors of capers and the heartiness of tuna. It's perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending too much time in the kitchen. The dish is not only simple to prepare but also light on the wallet, making it a great option for anyone looking to save some money while enjoying a delicious meal.

The combination of tender pasta, savory tuna, and tangy capers results in a delightful burst of flavor that will make your taste buds sing. A splash of lemon juice adds a refreshing touch, making it a well-rounded dish that feels a bit fancy, yet is incredibly easy to whip up in no time.

Ingredients

• 8 ounces spaghetti
• 1 can (5 ounces) tuna in olive oil, drained
• 2 tablespoons capers, rinsed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.
2. Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add Tuna and Capers: Stir in the drained tuna and capers, breaking the tuna into chunks. Cook for a couple of minutes until heated through.
4. Mix with Pasta: Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to combine. If the mixture seems dry, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
5. Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta, and season with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.

Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta

Spicy Arrabbiata Pasta is a fantastic choice for those who crave bold flavors without breaking the bank. This dish features a zesty tomato sauce infused with garlic and red pepper flakes, giving it that signature kick. What's great is that it's made with simple ingredients, making it not only delicious but also quick to whip up on busy weeknights.

The combination of spicy and savory elements makes this pasta truly satisfying. Plus, it pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread for that extra touch of comfort. You’ll find it’s easy to make, and your taste buds will thank you!

Ingredients

• 8 oz spaghetti or any pasta of your choice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce: In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine: Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat everything evenly. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
5. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley. Top with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your delicious and money-friendly meal!