25+ Delicious Friday Pasta Recipes for a Cozy Weekend Dinner

When the workweek winds down, the last thing anyone wants is to spend hours in the kitchen preparing a complicated meal.

That’s where pasta comes in as the perfect solution for your Friday night dinner! It’s quick, versatile, and easily customizable, making it an ideal go-to for a cozy night in.

Whether you’re craving something creamy, savory, or light, there’s a pasta dish for every mood.

From comforting classics like Spaghetti Aglio e Olio to creamy favorites like Chicken Alfredo, we’ve gathered over 25 delicious pasta recipes that will turn your Friday nights into something special.

These dishes are designed to be simple yet flavorful, helping you unwind and enjoy the start of your weekend without fuss.

25+ Delicious Friday Pasta Recipes for a Cozy Weekend Dinner

With these 25+ Friday pasta recipes, you’ll never have to worry about dinner again! Each recipe offers something unique, from hearty and indulgent options to lighter, fresher alternatives.

Pasta is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile, making it perfect for any occasion.

Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, these recipes are sure to please everyone.

So, say goodbye to stressful Fridays and hello to a bowl of delicious pasta that will make your weekend start off on the right note.

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan pasta combines rich, velvety cream with the sharpness of parmesan and the aromatic depth of garlic. It’s the perfect dish for a Friday evening dinner, offering comfort and flavor in every bite. The blend of creamy sauce and al dente pasta makes this recipe both satisfying and indulgent, ideal for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a more formal gathering.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for 4-5 minutes until the cream thickens slightly.
4. Lower the heat and stir in the parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving for a touch of color and freshness.

This creamy garlic parmesan pasta is a true indulgence. The rich and comforting sauce paired with the garlic flavor elevates the dish to a new level of sophistication. Perfect for a Friday dinner, it’s a go-to recipe that can be easily customized with vegetables, chicken, or shrimp for added variety. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or with family and friends, this pasta is sure to satisfy your cravings for something creamy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.

Pesto Chicken Pasta

Pesto chicken pasta is a vibrant, fresh dish full of bold flavors. The combination of tender chicken and basil pesto creates a deliciously savory experience that pairs beautifully with any type of pasta. This dish is not only packed with flavor but also comes together quickly, making it the ideal choice for a Friday night dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste or quality.

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1/4 cup store-bought or homemade basil pesto
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon pine nuts, toasted (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the penne pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then grill them until fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes per side. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
3. In a large bowl, toss the cooked pasta with the basil pesto until evenly coated.
4. Add the grilled chicken slices, sun-dried tomatoes, and pine nuts. Toss again to combine all ingredients.
5. Serve with fresh basil leaves for a burst of color and flavor.

Pesto chicken pasta offers the perfect balance of fresh, herby flavors from the pesto and the savory richness of grilled chicken. The addition of sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts gives this dish extra texture and depth. It’s a quick and easy meal that feels special, making it ideal for a Friday night when you want to enjoy a delicious, flavorful dinner without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a simple yet incredibly flavorful Italian pasta dish that relies on just a few ingredients: garlic, olive oil, chili flakes, and pasta. It’s light, spicy, and aromatic, with just the right amount of heat from the red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect for a busy Friday night when you want something quick but satisfying that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti in salted water according to the package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the red pepper flakes and a pinch of salt, then add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the garlic and olive oil mixture, adding reserved pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley and parmesan cheese if desired before serving.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is the epitome of simplicity and flavor. Despite having few ingredients, it’s full of rich, garlicky goodness with a perfect kick of heat from the chili flakes. This pasta dish is incredibly versatile and can be paired with various proteins or vegetables. For a Friday night when you need a quick yet delicious meal, Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a perfect go-to option that’s always satisfying.

Shrimp Scampi Pasta

Shrimp scampi pasta is a decadent yet easy-to-make dish that features juicy shrimp coated in a buttery, garlicky sauce with a hint of lemon and fresh parsley. The perfect combination of savory and citrusy flavors elevates this dish to something special. It’s an ideal choice for a Friday night when you want to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home, packed with flavor and elegance.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz linguine pasta
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/4 cup dry white wine (or chicken broth)
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup chopped parsley

Instructions:

1. Cook the linguine pasta according to the package directions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce the sauce slightly.
5. Add the cooked linguine to the skillet, tossing to combine. If needed, add a little reserved pasta water to help coat the pasta.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Shrimp scampi pasta is a dish that packs a punch with its bold flavors of garlic, butter, and lemon, balanced perfectly by the sweetness of shrimp. The richness of the sauce and the brightness of lemon come together to create a vibrant meal. This dish is ideal for a special Friday dinner or a quick weeknight meal that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.

Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells

Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells offer a comforting, cheesy, and satisfying dinner that will appeal to everyone at the table. Large pasta shells filled with a creamy mixture of spinach and ricotta are smothered in marinara sauce and baked to perfection. This hearty dish is perfect for a cozy Friday evening meal, especially when paired with a fresh salad and garlic bread.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz jumbo pasta shells
• 1 lb fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 1/2 cups ricotta cheese
• 1 egg
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the jumbo shells according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the chopped spinach until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, mozzarella, cooked spinach, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.
5. Stuff each cooked shell with the ricotta-spinach mixture and place them in a baking dish.
6. Pour marinara sauce over the stuffed shells and top with grated parmesan cheese.
7. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the top is golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells are the ultimate comfort food, with creamy cheese and tender pasta nestled in marinara sauce. The spinach adds a nutritious twist, making this dish a well-rounded meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s the perfect option for a Friday night when you want a little indulgence without compromising on flavor or nutrition. This dish is easy to make in advance, making it great for leftovers or meal prepping as well.

Baked Ziti with Sausage

Baked ziti with sausage is a crowd-pleasing, hearty dish that combines rich tomato sauce, ziti pasta, and savory sausage, all topped with melted mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. It’s a perfect dish for a Friday night dinner, offering bold flavors and a satisfying texture that will leave everyone coming back for seconds. Plus, the baking process ensures everything is infused with flavor and perfectly melty.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz ziti pasta
• 1 lb Italian sausage (sweet or spicy)
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the ziti pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through, about 8 minutes.
4. Stir in the marinara sauce and let simmer for 5 minutes to combine the flavors.
5. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the sausage sauce, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining mozzarella and grated parmesan.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Baked ziti with sausage is the epitome of comfort food, combining rich sauce, tender pasta, and flavorful sausage into one irresistible dish. The melted cheese and hearty texture make it a filling meal perfect for a cozy Friday night with family and friends. This recipe is easy to prepare, making it a great option for a casual dinner that still feels indulgent and satisfying.

Carbonara Pasta

Carbonara pasta is a timeless Italian classic, loved for its simplicity and rich, creamy texture. The creamy sauce is made with eggs, cheese, and pancetta, creating a velvety coating on every strand of pasta. This dish is both indulgent and comforting, with a smoky depth from the pancetta and the sharpness of parmesan. Carbonara pasta is a perfect choice for a Friday night dinner when you want something rich, flavorful, and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 1/2 lb pancetta, diced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced pancetta over medium heat for 5-6 minutes, until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, parmesan cheese, and heavy cream (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the drained spaghetti to the skillet with the pancetta, tossing to combine.
5. Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing continuously to create a creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional parmesan cheese before serving.

Carbonara pasta is a flavorful and indulgent dish that feels like a treat every time. The creamy, cheesy sauce combined with the crispy pancetta gives this recipe a perfect balance of richness and savory depth. It’s quick to prepare, making it a great option for a Friday night when you want something hearty yet simple. This dish will undoubtedly become a favorite for any pasta lover.

Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Lemon ricotta pasta is a bright, zesty dish that balances the creaminess of ricotta with the tangy freshness of lemon. The combination of creamy ricotta, fresh herbs, and a touch of citrus creates a light but satisfying pasta. It’s perfect for a Friday evening meal, offering a refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes. The flavor profile is light enough for a spring or summer meal but comforting enough for any time of year.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti or fettuccine in salted water according to the package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, lemon zest, lemon juice, and grated parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with garlic, tossing to coat.
5. Stir in the ricotta mixture, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta evenly.
6. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Lemon ricotta pasta is a delightful combination of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors that offer a unique twist on your typical pasta dishes. The richness of ricotta pairs perfectly with the bright citrus notes from the lemon, while fresh herbs add a touch of color and fragrance. This dish is light enough for a refreshing Friday dinner and versatile enough to serve in any season, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.

Baked Penne with Meatballs

Baked penne with meatballs is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender pasta with flavorful meatballs and marinara sauce, all baked to golden perfection with a layer of melted mozzarella. This dish is guaranteed to satisfy and is perfect for a Friday night dinner when you want a filling meal that brings the family together. With its savory sauce, cheesy top, and hearty meatballs, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 egg
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, parmesan, egg, salt, and pepper. Shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1-inch in diameter.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, about 5-6 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.
5. In a large baking dish, layer the cooked penne, marinara sauce, and meatballs. Top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Baked penne with meatballs is a crowd-pleasing, filling dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. The meatballs are tender and flavorful, perfectly complemented by the gooey, melted mozzarella and rich marinara sauce. It’s the ultimate comfort food, making it an ideal choice for a cozy Friday night dinner. This dish is not only hearty and satisfying but also easy to prepare, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions.

Pesto Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

Pesto pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a vibrant and flavorful dish that blends the fresh, aromatic flavors of pesto with the rich, tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes. The pesto sauce coats the pasta in a creamy, herbal base, while the sun-dried tomatoes provide bursts of flavor, creating a balanced and satisfying meal. This dish is perfect for a Friday night dinner when you want something quick, yet packed with fresh and bold flavors.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz penne or fusilli pasta
• 1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
• 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and sauté for 1-2 minutes to bring out their flavors.
3. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, then stir in the pesto sauce, tossing to coat. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to help the sauce coat the pasta evenly.
4. Stir in the toasted pine nuts (if using) and grated parmesan cheese.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste and garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Pesto pasta with sun-dried tomatoes is a beautifully fresh and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a relaxed Friday night dinner. The bright, herby pesto pairs wonderfully with the rich, chewy sun-dried tomatoes, and the addition of parmesan gives the dish a lovely creamy finish. It’s quick to make yet feels indulgent, making it a great option for those who want a satisfying meal without too much effort.

Chicken Alfredo Pasta

Chicken Alfredo pasta is a creamy, comforting classic that’s beloved by many. The creamy, velvety Alfredo sauce made from butter, cream, and parmesan cheese coats the pasta, creating a rich and indulgent meal. Paired with tender, juicy chicken, this dish is the epitome of comfort food, making it the perfect choice for a Friday night when you’re craving something hearty and satisfying.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic in the remaining oil for about 1 minute. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in the parmesan cheese and nutmeg, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
5. Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water as needed to help the sauce coat the pasta.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Chicken Alfredo pasta is a rich, comforting dish that’s both satisfying and indulgent. The creamy Alfredo sauce combined with tender chicken and fettuccine pasta makes it a filling meal perfect for any Friday night. Its familiar, velvety texture and savory flavors make it a go-to option for those who love classic pasta dishes. This recipe is a great choice for a cozy dinner that’s sure to please the whole family.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Pasta

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a quick and flavorful dish that packs a punch with rich butter, aromatic garlic, and succulent shrimp. The combination of garlic, butter, and lemon creates a zesty, savory sauce that coats the pasta and adds depth to the dish. This recipe is perfect for a busy Friday when you want something both fast and indulgent, without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti or linguine
• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1/2 cup white wine (or chicken broth)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4. Add the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice, scraping any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing everything to combine. If needed, add reserved pasta water to create a smooth, glossy sauce.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon zest before serving.

Garlic butter shrimp pasta is a fast and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite. The rich, buttery sauce combined with the savory shrimp and zesty lemon makes it a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s an excellent choice for a Friday night when you want something quick, yet indulgent, and packed with bold flavors. This dish is a perfect balance of simplicity and sophistication, ideal for a relaxing dinner at home.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is an Italian classic known for its simplicity and incredible flavor. With just a few ingredients—garlic, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and parsley—this dish delivers bold flavors that are both satisfying and easy to prepare. The rich olive oil coats the spaghetti, while the garlic adds an aromatic depth, and the red pepper flakes give it a hint of spice. Perfect for a Friday night when you crave a comforting, yet light meal.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz spaghetti
• 6 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Cook the spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced garlic and cook until golden brown, about 2 minutes, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the red pepper flakes and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the garlic and oil mixture. If needed, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to help coat the pasta.
5. Season with salt and garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Add grated parmesan if desired before serving.

Spaghetti Aglio e Olio is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a dish full of flavor. The combination of garlic and olive oil with the gentle heat from red pepper flakes makes this a deliciously aromatic pasta. It’s an easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for a quick yet satisfying dinner after a long week, proving that sometimes less is more.

Mushroom Alfredo Pasta

Mushroom Alfredo pasta is a creamy, savory dish that combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce. The mushrooms add an umami depth that complements the creamy sauce, making every bite indulgent and satisfying. With its creamy texture and the natural earthiness of mushrooms, this dish is a comforting choice for a Friday night when you want something hearty yet comforting.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fettuccine pasta
• 1 lb mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work best)
• 3 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened and browned.
3. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, and bring it to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Stir in the parmesan cheese and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, tossing to coat. Add reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Mushroom Alfredo pasta is a rich and creamy dish that’s perfect for any pasta lover. The earthy mushrooms add depth and flavor, elevating the creamy Alfredo sauce. This dish is a comforting choice for a Friday dinner, combining both indulgent and satisfying flavors. It’s a quick and easy way to enjoy a gourmet meal at home, making it ideal for a cozy night in.

Caprese Pasta Salad

Caprese pasta salad is a fresh, light, and vibrant dish that combines the classic flavors of a Caprese salad—tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil—into a delicious pasta salad. Tossed in a simple balsamic vinaigrette, the dish is bright, herbaceous, and satisfying without being heavy. Perfect for a Friday night when you’re craving something refreshing and easy to make, this pasta salad is perfect for any occasion, from casual dinners to potlucks.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz rotini or farfalle pasta
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and rinse under cold water to cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the cooled pasta, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, honey (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Pour the dressing over the pasta mixture and toss to coat evenly.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Caprese pasta salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a light Friday dinner. The combination of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil brings a taste of summer in every bite. The simple balsamic dressing ties everything together, creating a vibrant, satisfying dish that’s easy to prepare and ideal for warm weather. This pasta salad is sure to become a go-to favorite for a light, yet satisfying meal.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!