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: 8 ounces of spaghetti; 2 tablespoons of olive oil; 3 cloves of garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes; 1 teaspoon of dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving; 1 cup of spinach; 1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms; 1/2 cup of cooked chicken or shrimp

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is perfect for busy evenings when you want something quick yet delicious.

Created by

Hayley Morton

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:22:09.656Z

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner Recipe is not just quick to prepare, but it also packs a punch of flavor that the whole family will love. Made with fresh ingredients and a simple sauce, it's the ideal meal for any night of the week.

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in under 30 minutes
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite ingredients
Deliciously satisfying and perfect for the whole family

      

A Quick and Satisfying Meal

When time is of the essence, this Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner shines as the perfect solution. With its simple yet flavorful ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal in under 30 minutes. This recipe not only saves time but also ensures that you’re not sacrificing taste for speed. Each bite of spaghetti is coated in a rich tomato sauce infused with garlic and basil, making it a delightful experience for your taste buds.

Moreover, the beauty of this pasta dish lies in its adaptability. You can easily swap in different pasta shapes, sauces, or proteins based on what you have on hand. Whether you prefer a classic marinara or a creamy sauce, this recipe welcomes your personal touch. You can be as creative as you like, ensuring that every weeknight dinner feels unique and exciting.

Customizable for Every Palate

One of the standout features of this Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner is its versatility. The base recipe provides a delicious foundation, but you can easily customize it to suit your family's preferences. Add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra color and nutrition, or toss in your choice of protein for a heartier meal. The optional add-ins, such as spinach, mushrooms, or cooked chicken, allow you to craft a dish that caters to everyone’s taste.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs and spices as well. Fresh basil or parsley can elevate the dish further, while red pepper flakes can add a spicy kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. This flexibility not only makes the recipe appealing to picky eaters but also ensures that you can keep it fresh and exciting week after week.

Perfect for Family Dinners

Gathering around the dinner table is a cherished tradition, and this pasta dish makes it easy to create delicious family moments. Its simple preparation allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of loved ones. The comforting flavors and satisfying portions mean that even the pickiest eaters will find something to enjoy.

Additionally, this recipe is a great way to introduce children to cooking. With minimal steps and easily manageable tasks, kids can help with stirring, adding ingredients, or even setting the table. This not only encourages family bonding but also teaches valuable cooking skills that will benefit them in the future.

Ingredients

Pasta Ingredients

8 ounces of spaghetti
2 tablespoons of olive oil
3 cloves of garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon of dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Optional Add-ins

1 cup of spinach
1/2 cup of sliced mushrooms
1/2 cup of cooked chicken or shrimp

Feel free to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the spaghetti according to package directions 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 Tomatoes and Seasoning

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices. Stir in the dried basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti to the skillet, tossing to coat the pasta with the sauce. If using, add spinach or other add-ins at this point.

Serve

Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious weeknight dinner!

Pair with a side salad for a complete meal!

Ingredient Spotlight: Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes are a key ingredient in this recipe, bringing both flavor and texture to the dish. They are rich in vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which is known for its health benefits. Using canned tomatoes makes preparation quick and easy, while still delivering a fresh taste. When selecting canned tomatoes, opt for those packed in their juices to enhance the flavor of your sauce.

In addition to their health benefits, tomatoes are incredibly versatile. They can be used in a variety of dishes beyond pasta, including soups, stews, and salads. Their natural sweetness balances well with savory ingredients, making them a staple in many kitchens.

Meal Prep Tips

This Easy Weeknight Pasta Dinner is not only quick to prepare but also lends itself well to meal prep. You can cook the pasta and sauce in advance, allowing you to store them separately in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat and combine them for a fast meal. This strategy is especially beneficial for busy weekdays where time is a luxury.

Consider portioning out individual servings of the sauce in containers, which can be frozen for longer storage. This way, you will always have a delicious homemade sauce ready to pair with fresh pasta whenever the craving strikes. It’s an easy way to ensure that you have a wholesome meal on hand, without the need for takeout.

Storage and Reheating

Leftovers from this pasta dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best flavor and texture, it's recommended to store the pasta and sauce separately. When reheating, add a splash of water or olive oil to the pasta to prevent it from drying out, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

If you have extra sauce, consider using it as a base for other dishes. It can enhance the flavor of grilled chicken, be used in a vegetable stir-fry, or serve as a dipping sauce for breadsticks. This flexibility allows you to minimize waste and maximize flavor in your meals.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, any pasta shape will work well in this recipe!

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Simply skip the chicken or shrimp and load up on vegetables instead!

→ Can I prepare this meal in advance?

You can cook the pasta and sauce separately and combine them when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this pasta dish?

A simple salad or garlic bread makes a great pairing!