Pasta is often at the top of the list when it comes to affordable and satisfying meals. Luckily, I’ve accumulated a collection of thrifty pasta recipes that are just waiting to be shared. And what’s not to love about an ingredient that can sit in your pantry for months on end, ready to be whipped up into a meal whenever you need it? The only catch is that many recipes rely on pricey ingredients, which can quickly blow the budget.
That’s why I’m excited to dive into thirty-one affordable pasta recipes with you, and explore how we can make delicious meals without breaking the bank.
Chicken Zucchini Pasta
With a total of 327 calories per serving, this protein-rich meal is an excellent value. The nutritional breakdown reveals 16g of fats, 19g of protein, and 29g of carbohydrates, as well as 3.6g of fiber and 20g of sugar. To achieve this impressive profile at a budget-friendly price, I rely on chicken as my primary source of lean protein.
This recipe is a staple in my kitchen due to its exceptional nutrient density, with the zucchini expertly absorbing flavors and the pasta and sauce combining for a rich, creamy experience that never fails to impress.
Vegan Creamy Pasta
When it comes to nutrition information, here are the details for this vegan pasta recipe: Per serving, you can expect 222 calories, along with 5.2g of fat, 7.5g of protein, and 36.1g of carbohydrates. Note that fiber and sugar levels are not specified in grams. Despite the initial challenge of making vegan pasta creamy, this recipe requires only twenty minutes of prep time to get started. To take it to the next level, feel free to add your favorite toppings and create a personalized dish.
Lemon Garlic Parmesan Pasta
Indulge in a culinary journey to the Italian countryside with this delectable lemon, garlic, and parmesan pasta dish. With a preparation time of mere 20 minutes, it’s the perfect recipe to whip up at a moment’s notice. The simplicity of its ingredients belies its rich flavor profile. A serving of this delightful pasta dish yields: approximately 190 calories, with 9.7g of fats, 5.3g of protein, 22.1g of carbohydrates, 1.1g of fiber and 2.2g of sugar.
One Pot Taco Spaghetti
In terms of nutritional breakdown, a serving of this ground beef pasta dish contains 554 calories, with 23g of fat, 38g of protein, and 49g of carbohydrates. Additionally, it has 3g of fiber and only 5g of sugar. When looking for a convenient and cost-effective meal option that packs a punch in terms of protein content, ground beef pasta is an excellent choice.
This dish cleverly combines the flavors of Mexico and Italy to create a comforting and satisfying meal that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. With its ease of preparation and high protein content, this recipe is one of the simplest yet most impressive high-protein dinner ideas.
White Bean Pasta
Indulge in the flavors of Italy without breaking the bank! This white bean pasta recipe boasts an impressive nutritional profile, with each serving providing 395 calories, 2g of fat, 20g of protein, 90g of carbohydrates, and a decent 12g of fiber. With only 12g of sugar, this dish is a great option for those looking to balance their diet.
The secret to its success lies in the generous use of spices – dried herbs and balsamic vinegar add depth and brightness, making it a perfect pairing with a crispy slice of garlic bread.
Roasted Garlic and Broccoli Pasta
This straightforward vegetarian pasta dish requires minimal effort and no compromise on nutritional value. With only 238 calories per serving, it’s an ideal solution when resources are limited. The breakdown of macronutrients reveals 6g of fats, 10g of protein, 38g of carbohydrates, 6g of fiber, and a mere 3g of sugar. This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also energy-efficient, allowing you to unwind on busy weeknights instead of being tied to the stove.
As a low-calorie dinner idea, it’s an excellent choice for those looking to make healthier choices without sacrificing flavor or convenience.
10 Minute Cream Cheese Pasta
With just 10 minutes of preparation time, this quick and easy pasta dish is a game-changer. One of the key ingredients that sets it apart from other recipes is cream cheese, which not only adds a rich and creamy texture but also boosts the protein content. The nutritional breakdown per serving looks like this: Calories – 549, Fats – 32g, Protein – 18g, Carbs – 52g, Fiber – 2g, Sugar – 4g.
Whether you’re in need of a speedy lunch or a weeknight dinner solution, this dish is sure to become a staple in your household.
Vegan Creamy Chickpea Pasta with Spinach
Indulge in this delightful vegan pasta dish that’s perfect for cozying up with the family on a chilly winter night. With a creamy coconut milk base, this recipe is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a nutritious boost of protein and vitamins. Each serving yields a satisfying 436 calories, broken down into 16g of fats, 14g of protein, and 60g of complex carbohydrates that include 6g of fiber and just 4g of natural sugars. This crowd-pleaser is sure to become a new family favorite.
Tuna Pasta with Mayo
A serving of this dish yields 1210 calories, comprising 87g of fat, 25g of protein, 81g of carbohydrates, 5g of dietary fiber, and 18g of sugar. While you may not have much to work with in your pantry, a can of tuna and some dried spaghetti can be transformed into a satisfying meal with the addition of mayonnaise and pickles. The creamy mayonnaise and tangy pickles create a flavorful combination that’s perfect as a side dish or a main course.
Vegan Bolognese
Vegan Bolognese stands out among my favorite recipes due to its simplicity in preparation. What’s more, it offers a significant advantage over traditional ground beef alternatives: not only is it more affordable, but it also packs an impressive 17g of protein per serving – a notable increase from the typical 10-12g found in comparable meat-based dishes. But that’s not all; this recipe’s vegan nature allows for a guilt-free indulgence, free from any drawbacks.
To top it off, the entire process can be completed in just thirty minutes, making it an ideal solution for busy home cooks seeking a quick and satisfying meal.
Chili Garlic Noodles
The nutritional breakdown per serving is as follows: 684 calories, 19g of fats, 19g of protein, 109g of carbohydrates, 7g of fiber, and a moderate 16g of sugar. While these numbers may seem impressive, the real magic lies in the simplicity and affordability of this dish. With just a few essential ingredients, you can whip up one of the most scrumptious meals on the planet – all without breaking the bank or sacrificing precious time.
The classic combination of chili and garlic is a match made in culinary heaven, guaranteeing that your taste buds will be singing along with the flavors.
Lemon Parmesan Garlic Spaghetti
Indulge in the simplicity of this delectable trio, which combines the brightness of lemon with the richness of parmesan and the pungency of garlic. With each bite, you’ll discover a harmonious balance of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. And the best part? These staples are pantry-friendly, ensuring they remain a reliable companion for your culinary creations.
One Pot Creamy Mushroom Pasta with Spinach
This mouthwatering one-pot dish boasts an impressive nutritional profile, with a per serving breakdown that includes 334 calories, 19g of fats, 9g of protein, and 34g of carbohydrates. Additionally, it’s packed with 4g of dietary fiber and just 4g of sugar. For vegans, this recipe is a game-changer, thanks to the inclusion of protein-rich mushrooms and spinach.
Better yet, preparing this meal requires only twenty minutes of your time – a truly minimal investment in return for a deliciously satisfying outcome.
White Cheddar Mac and Cheese
Savoring every bite of white cheddar macaroni and cheese is like wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. This comforting, creamy pasta dish boasts a satisfying mix of nutrients per serving: 644 calories, with 35g of fats, 26g of protein, 55g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 8g of sugar. A delightful alternative to the standard mac ‘n’ cheese, it’s an easy and warm solution for a quick dinner or a satisfying side dish at your next barbecue.
Plus, its vegetarian profile makes it an excellent main course option.
Butternut Squash Alfredo Pasta
Savor the nutritional benefits of this delectable butternut squash alfredo pasta, which yields a surprisingly impressive profile per serving: 463 calories, 16g of fats, 6g of protein, and only 3g of carbs, with negligible fiber and sugar content. The innovative approach to traditional alfredo sauce lies in its use of pureed butternut squash, adding depth and richness without sacrificing affordability or family-friendly appeal.
Paprika Pasta
With just 20 minutes on your hands, you can still satisfy your pasta cravings with this flavorful vegetarian recipe. Each serving boasts an impressive nutritional profile: 359 calories, 14g of fat, 11g of protein, 47g of carbohydrates, 3g of fiber, and a mere 2g of sugar. The best part? This sauce is incredibly budget-friendly to whip up, making it perfect for meal planning or a spontaneous dinner solution.
Plus, its spice-rich flavor makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you need a quick yet satisfying meal.
Harissa Pasta
Harissa Pasta: A Delicious Fusion of Flavors This mouthwatering dish combines the bold flavors of Middle Eastern and North African cuisine with the comfort of a creamy pasta. With only four ingredients, it’s surprisingly easy to prepare.
Per serving, you can expect: – 635 calories – 23g of fats – 17g of protein – 91g of carbohydrates – 4g of fiber and 5g of sugar Whether you’re in the mood for something new and exciting or just need a quick and satisfying meal, this harissa pasta is sure to hit the spot. Top it with your favorite vegetables or enjoy it as-is – either way, it’s a dish that will keep you going all day.
Pasta with Peas
This one-pot masterpiece, also known as Pasta e Piselli, originates from Naples in Italy. Boasting a mere 384 calories per serving, it’s an affordable yet impressive option to delight your dinner guests without compromising on taste or budget. With its rich nutrient profile of 5g fats, 14g protein, and 70g carbs, this dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures. Plus, its simplicity makes it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight meal that can be easily customized to suit any palate.
Pink Sauce Pasta
In terms of nutritional information per serving, this pink sauce pasta dish is a great option. It packs 268 calories, with 19g of fats, 13g of protein, and 15g of carbohydrates. Additionally, it contains 3g of fiber and 9g of sugar. This impressive combination is matched only by its ease of preparation – the entire recipe comes together in just twenty minutes, making it a perfect solution for busy home cooks.
Chicken Bacon Ranch Pasta Salad
When it comes to satisfying your hunger on game-day, look no further than this indulgent pasta dish. With 611 calories per serving, you can indulge without worrying about going overboard. The breakdown is as follows: 31g of fats, 33g of protein, and 50g of carbs, accompanied by a modest 3g of fiber and sugar each. This comforting recipe is perfect for potlucks or picnics on hot summer days, where it can be enjoyed by everyone.
To take it to the next level, prepare this high-protein salad a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld together and intensify.
Baked Rigatoni
Satisfy your cravings for a comforting weeknight meal without sacrificing nutrition or flavor. This baked rigatoni recipe is an ideal solution, boasting 547 calories per serving. A single serving provides a balanced mix of macronutrients: 29g of fats, 27g of protein, and 44g of carbohydrates, with a moderate amount of fiber (2g) and sugar (2g). The key to this meal’s success lies in its filling and affordable nature, thanks to the inclusion of high-protein ground sausage.
What’s more, you can easily scale up the recipe to prepare a large batch, allowing you to enjoy the leftovers the following day – essentially, two meals for the price of one!
Parmesan Garlic Linguine
Indulge in a culinary delight with this remarkably simple yet satisfying Parmesan and Garlic Linguine recipe! With only 25 minutes of preparation time, you’ll be delighted by the ease and quality of this dish. Here’s what you can expect per serving: a whopping 756 calories, 34g of fats, 23g of protein, 89g of carbohydrates, 4g of fiber, and 5g of sugar. This mouth-watering creation is sure to please even the most discerning palates, making it perfect for any occasion.
Just imagine the nods of approval from Nonnas everywhere as you present this dish on your table.
Tomato Coconut Pasta
With a calorie count of 526 per serving, this pasta dish is a satisfying option for a quick weeknight dinner. The breakdown reveals 37g of fats, 10g of protein, and 45g of carbohydrates, with an additional 6g of fiber and 9g of sugar. The combination of tomato and coconut may seem unconventional, but the result is a flavorful and affordable meal that just so happens to be vegan-friendly. And the best part?
It can be prepared in just twenty-five minutes, leaving you more time to enjoy the applause from your delighted family members as they devour this tasty treat.
Red Pesto Pasta
This rich and flavorful red pesto boasts a vibrant color thanks to its key ingredient: sundried tomatoes. With an impressive 7.4g of fats, 7.6g of protein, and 34.2g of carbohydrates per serving, this dish is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. Each serving also contains 2.7g of fiber and a moderate 4.6g of sugar. When made ahead of time, this pesto can be used as a delicious spread for crackers or sandwiches.
With its bold flavor profile, it’s no wonder that this red pesto is a perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Chili Mac
Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with our stovetop chili recipe, elevated by the addition of pasta. This satisfying and affordable meal is perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With a nutritional breakdown per serving, you can expect: 243 calories, 7g of fat, 14g of protein, 32g of carbohydrates, 6g of fiber, and 4g of sugar. Trust us, once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your household with family members begging for more.
Pumpkin Sage Pasta
Indulge in this restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. With only ten ingredients and thirty minutes of your time, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties alike. To elevate the flavors, add a generous sprinkle of dried sage. This recipe is not only delicious but also healthy, making it one of the best fall dinner recipes out there. Nutrition information per serving: 578 calories, 17g fat, 18g protein, 88g carbohydrates, 5g fiber, and 4g sugar.
One Pot Hummus Pasta
One-pot pastas are the unsung heroes of our busy lives, providing sustenance on even the most chaotic of days. This one-pot hummus pasta is a masterclass in convenience and balance, combining nutritious leafy greens with protein-rich hummus for a satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time at all. What’s more, you’re free to experiment with different types of hummus to keep things fresh and exciting.
Pizza Pasta Bake
Satisfy those uncontrollable pizza cravings with a twist – by combining the best of both worlds in this mouth-watering pizza pasta recipe. What sets it apart is the harmonious blend of classic pizza toppings seamlessly integrated into a rich and satisfying bowl of pasta.
This clever compromise is sure to become your go-to solution for a quick and indulgent dinner option, offering a delightful combination of 522 calories per serving, with 24g of fats, 27g of protein, 48g of carbs, 3g of fiber, and 6g of sugar.
5 Ingredient Mac and Cheese
With just 20 minutes on your hands, you can indulge in a comforting bowl of macaroni and cheese, packed with nutrition. A serving size boasts an impressive 314 calories, with 14g of fats, 15g of protein, and a balanced mix of 34g carbohydrates, including 8g of fiber and 5g of sugar. The best part? This beloved dish requires only five ingredients, making it a cinch to whip up even on the busiest of days.
Thanks to the culinary prowess of home cooks everywhere, we’re excited to share this simplified recipe for macaroni and cheese that’s not only easy on the wallet but also a surefire hit with your family.
Bacon Pesto Pasta
A single serving of this dish yields impressive nutritional statistics: 491 calories, with a breakdown of 28g of fats, 15g of protein, and 44g of carbohydrates. Fiber and sugar content come in at 2g each. The indulgent combination of flavors is reminiscent of the saying ‘bacon makes everything better.’ In fact, even ice cream might be elevated by its crispy goodness! If you’re a fellow bacon enthusiast, you’ll appreciate these other satisfying 500-calorie meal options.
Vegan Pumpkin Pasta
With its impressive nutritional profile, this ten-minute pumpkin pasta recipe is a must-know for every home cook, whether they follow a vegan lifestyle or not. To prepare it, all you need is pumpkin puree, pasta, and a few minutes of your time. The pumpkin adds significant protein content to the dish, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a nutritious meal option. As if the nutritional benefits weren’t enough, this recipe also boasts an unbeatable taste.
With no notable downsides, this simple yet satisfying pasta dish is perfect for busy home cooks looking to whip up a delicious meal in no time.
In total, we’ve curated thirty-one mouth-watering pasta recipes that won’t put a strain on your wallet (but will surely tantalize your taste buds). From protein-packed vegan options to classic Italian dishes, there’s an extensive range of pasta creations waiting to be explored.
Feel free to experiment with different flavors, adapt these recipes to suit your tastes, and find the perfect signature pasta dish that suits you.
As costs rise, it’s always helpful to have a reliable, budget-friendly pasta recipe up your sleeve. Do you have a go-to cheap pasta recipe you swear by? Share your favorite in the comments below – I’m always eager to discover new recipes and try them out!