Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe

Name: Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta; Salt for boiling water; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1 cup spinach, roughly chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want a delicious meal without the fuss.

Created by

Arielle Baxter

Last updated on 2025-12-28T18:07:09.486Z

This pasta dish has become a family favorite for its simplicity and flavor. It combines fresh ingredients with pantry staples to create a quick, satisfying meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables
Comforting and delicious, perfect for the whole family

      

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

After a long day, the last thing you want is to spend hours in the kitchen. This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe comes together in a snap, making it ideal for those hectic evenings. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a satisfying meal that everyone will love. It’s a great way to make the most of your time without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, allowing you to spend more time with your family or relaxing after a busy day. The quick cooking time means you can easily fit this into your evening routine, making it a go-to option for any night of the week.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about this pasta recipe is its versatility. You can personalize it based on what's in your fridge or your family’s preferences. Feel free to swap out the spinach for kale or use zucchini noodles for a healthier twist. The cherry tomatoes can be replaced with your favorite seasonal vegetables, ensuring this dish remains fresh and exciting every time you make it.

Whether you prefer a creamy sauce or a light, oil-based dressing, this recipe can accommodate your taste. Add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas to make it heartier. This adaptability not only keeps meals interesting but also helps you manage food waste by using up leftover ingredients.

A Family-Friendly Meal

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner is the ultimate family-friendly meal. With its comforting flavors and appealing presentation, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Kids love pasta, and by incorporating colorful vegetables, you can make it both nutritious and visually appealing. It’s an excellent way to sneak in some greens while ensuring everyone enjoys their meal.

Moreover, cooking together can be a fun bonding experience for families. Involve your kids in the kitchen by letting them help with washing vegetables or stirring the pasta. It’s a wonderful opportunity to teach them about cooking while spending quality time together, making mealtime more than just eating — it becomes a shared experience.

Ingredients

Pasta

12 oz spaghetti or your favorite pasta
Salt for boiling water

Sauce and Vegetables

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup spinach, roughly chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Add Vegetables

Add the cherry tomatoes and spinach to the skillet. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your easy weeknight dinner!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This pasta dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresh, store it in an airtight container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop. If it seems a bit dry, add a splash of olive oil or a bit of water to restore its original texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the pasta. Just make sure to cool it completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as mentioned earlier for a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner, consider serving it with a side salad. A simple mixed greens salad with a tangy vinaigrette pairs wonderfully and adds freshness to your meal. You can also serve some crusty bread on the side for a delightful touch, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

For those who enjoy a little extra flavor, top your pasta with fresh herbs like basil or parsley before serving. A sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese can also enhance the dish, making it feel even more indulgent without any extra effort.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free option.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Zucchini, bell peppers, or broccoli are great additions!

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the Parmesan cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative.