Mains 3 Min Read

15 Crowd-pleasing Pasta Recipes

By Lauren Medeiros On August 24th, 2026

It’s always a good night for pasta.

These simple and satisfying recipes are perfect for a regular weeknight or dinner party.

Read on for our favourite crowd-pleasing pastas from chefs including Alison Roman and Christine Flynn.

Busiate with Trapanese Pesto

Mimi Thorisson shares her recipe for busiate, a flat pasta rolled into a spiral shape, with tomato and almond pesto.

Terroni’s Spaghetti al Limone

This no-fuss pasta recipe has become a staple at Terroni restaurants. Butter brings the creaminess and lemon zest brings the brightness for a delicious bite.

Green Pasta with Lemon and Pecorino

You can pack a load of veggies into this green pasta. Christine Flynn adds frozen broccoli, spinach and a handful of basil to make the vibrant sauce, which is as nutrient-packed as it is tasty.

Spaghetti with Mint, Ricotta and Olive Oil-baked Breadcrumbs

This savoury dish is Matty Matheson’s love letter to spaghetti. Don’t skip out on the baked breadcrumbs, which add a lovely texture and bite to every forkful.

Jarred Pepper Pasta

Pasta doesn’t get much easier than this — but that doesn’t mean the presentation can’t be eye-catching. Dollops of cheese and herb oil turn penne into an edible work of art.

Spaghetti with Sardines, Lemon and Arugula

Made with pantry staples, some greens and tinned fish, this simple pasta comes together in a large skillet and packs a briny flavour punch.

Lasagna Alla Vodka

If you like penne alla vodka, you’ll love this lasagna version. Place it in the middle of a table for guests to tuck in, and, if it’s just you and a friend, freeze the leftovers.

Tuscan Kale, Chicken and Asiago Pasta Bake

When you want something rich and creamy, turn to this pasta bake. Its salty and citrusy, and perfect to add leftover chicken to.

Chestnut Carbonara

Take it from Jamie Oliver — this unique twist on carbonara will quickly become your favourite dinner. And with just five ingredients, you can’t go wrong.

Skillet Lasagna

Forget layering lasagna in a casserole dish, and try this skillet lasagna made with no-boil noodles. Three cheeses — ricotta, mozzarella and Grana Padano — are tucked into the layers.

Penne alla Boscaiola

Ristorante a Mano adds interest to this classic recipe with roasted chicken and crispy bacon with caramelized mushrooms and onions.

Mafaldine With Spicy Cauliflower Ragù & Guanciale

This pasta by one of our favourite chefs, Philip Haddad, has it all: high-quality meat, beautiful cheeses and tasteful vegetables. The cauliflower, says Philip, brings a whole other dimension.

Weeknight Spaghettoni with Tomatoes & Pancetta

Weeknight meal and dinner party expert Ina Garten shares her fantastic spaghettoni that features pancetta and red wine. Serve it hot with plenty of fresh basil.

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Pasta

Rather than your usual heavy cream, coconut milk is used to thicken this umami-forward pasta sauce. Non-vegans won’t miss the dairy — it’s really that good.