Pasta is the ultimate versatile dish for lunch, offering endless flavor combinations and easy preparation.
These 15 lunch pasta recipes are designed to satisfy every craving, from light and fresh salads to hearty, comforting dishes.
Perfect for office meals, school lunches, or weekend gatherings, they are easy to make ahead and transport.
With colorful vegetables, savory sauces, and protein-packed ingredients, these recipes bring convenience, nutrition, and taste together.
Elevate your midday meals with these simple, satisfying, and delicious pasta creations.
15 Flavorful Lunch Pasta Recipes You Must Try
These 15 lunch pasta recipes make lunchtime exciting, flavorful, and stress-free.
From creamy, indulgent sauces to fresh, vibrant pasta salads, there’s a recipe for every palate.
They’re easy to prepare, portable, and perfect for meal prep or sharing with friends and family.
Pasta brings comfort, convenience, and creativity to your midday meals.
With these recipes, lunch becomes a delicious, satisfying, and memorable experience every day.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Pasta
This creamy garlic Parmesan pasta is rich, indulgent, and perfect for a comforting lunch.
Al dente pasta is tossed in a creamy garlic and Parmesan sauce, creating a silky, flavorful coating.
Fresh herbs add brightness, while a hint of black pepper balances the richness.
It’s quick to prepare and ideal for a satisfying weekday meal or lunch gathering.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (fettuccine or penne)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until evenly coated.
- Garnish with parsley and season with salt and pepper.
Garlic and Parmesan create a rich, savory flavor that coats every strand of pasta.
Creaminess makes it comforting and indulgent while herbs add freshness.
This pasta is easy, quick, and satisfying for lunch.
A rich, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish perfect for midday meals.
Mediterranean Veggie Pasta
This Mediterranean veggie pasta is fresh, colorful, and perfect for a light yet filling lunch.
Crisp vegetables like bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and olives combine with al dente pasta.
A simple olive oil and lemon dressing brightens the flavors, while feta adds creamy tang.
It’s easy to prepare ahead and can be served warm or chilled.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne or fusilli pasta
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions and rinse with cold water.
- In a large bowl, combine cooked pasta, cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, olives, and feta.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice.
- Sprinkle oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly.
- Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Vegetables and feta create a balance of texture and flavor.
Lemon and olive oil dressing brightens the dish beautifully.
This pasta is nutritious, colorful, and portable for lunch.
A light, satisfying, and vibrant dish perfect for any midday meal.
Pesto Chicken Pasta
This pesto chicken pasta is fragrant, flavorful, and perfect for a hearty lunch.
Tender grilled chicken is combined with al dente pasta and coated in vibrant basil pesto.
Cherry tomatoes add juiciness, while Parmesan cheese enhances richness.
It’s quick to assemble and ideal for a flavorful, satisfying meal that can be served warm or room temperature.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini)
- 1 cup cooked chicken, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until warmed through.
- Toss cooked pasta with chicken, cherry tomatoes, and pesto until well combined.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Basil pesto adds vibrant flavor and aromatic freshness.
Chicken provides protein and makes the dish hearty.
Cherry tomatoes and Parmesan enhance texture and taste.
A flavorful, satisfying pasta perfect for lunch or casual gatherings.
Spicy Shrimp Pasta
This spicy shrimp pasta is bold, flavorful, and perfect for a lunch with a kick.
Juicy shrimp are sautéed with garlic, chili flakes, and olive oil, then tossed with pasta.
A squeeze of lemon and fresh parsley adds brightness and balance to the spice.
It’s quick to cook and makes a satisfying, protein-rich lunch option for any day.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and chili flakes, sauté for 1 minute.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3–4 minutes.
- Toss pasta with shrimp, lemon juice, and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Shrimp provide protein and a succulent texture.
Garlic and chili flakes create bold, flavorful heat.
Lemon and parsley brighten the dish and balance richness.
A quick, spicy, and satisfying pasta perfect for lunch.
Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
This creamy tomato basil pasta is rich, comforting, and perfect for a midday meal.
Tomato sauce is blended with cream for a luscious, silky coating over pasta.
Fresh basil adds fragrance, while Parmesan enhances depth of flavor.
It’s easy to make, satisfying, and ideal for a quick lunch at home or on the go.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne or rigatoni
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add tomato sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- Toss pasta with sauce until evenly coated.
- Sprinkle chopped basil on top and season with salt and pepper.
Tomato and cream create a rich, comforting flavor.
Basil adds freshness and a fragrant note.
Parmesan enhances depth and umami taste.
A creamy, flavorful pasta perfect for satisfying lunch meals.
Lemon Garlic Asparagus Pasta
This lemon garlic asparagus pasta is bright, fresh, and perfect for a light lunch.
Tender asparagus is sautéed with garlic and tossed with al dente pasta, olive oil, and a splash of lemon juice.
Parmesan cheese adds richness, while lemon zest enhances flavor.
It’s quick to prepare, healthy, and visually appealing for lunch gatherings or weekday meals.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add asparagus and cook until tender-crisp, 4–5 minutes.
- Toss cooked pasta with asparagus, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Garlic and lemon provide a bright, aromatic flavor.
Asparagus adds a fresh, slightly crisp texture.
Pasta brings heartiness, making the dish satisfying yet light.
A refreshing, healthy, and elegant lunch pasta option.
Creamy Mushroom Spinach Pasta
This creamy mushroom spinach pasta is rich, savory, and perfect for a hearty lunch.
Sautéed mushrooms and fresh spinach are combined with a creamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta.
Garlic and Parmesan add depth and aroma, creating a comforting yet flavorful dish.
It’s easy to make and ideal for a satisfying weekday or weekend meal.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add mushrooms and cook until golden.
- Stir in spinach until wilted.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan, stirring until smooth.
- Toss pasta in the sauce and season with salt and pepper.
Mushrooms and spinach provide earthy flavor and nutrients.
Creamy sauce adds richness and comfort.
Parmesan enhances depth and aroma.
A satisfying, flavorful pasta perfect for lunch or casual gatherings.
Sun-Dried Tomato and Basil Pasta
This sun-dried tomato and basil pasta is flavorful, colorful, and perfect for a quick lunch.
Sweet, tangy sun-dried tomatoes are combined with fresh basil, garlic, and olive oil.
Al dente pasta is tossed with the mixture and finished with Parmesan cheese for a savory touch.
It’s a simple yet elegant dish that can be made ahead and served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne or fusilli
- 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Add sun-dried tomatoes and cook for 2 minutes.
- Toss pasta with the tomato mixture and fresh basil.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Sun-dried tomatoes provide tangy sweetness and concentrated flavor.
Fresh basil adds fragrance and brightness.
Parmesan cheese enriches the dish with savory notes.
A simple, elegant pasta perfect for a flavorful lunch experience.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
This Cajun chicken pasta is spicy, flavorful, and perfect for a hearty lunch.
Tender chicken is seasoned with Cajun spices and tossed with al dente pasta in a creamy sauce.
Bell peppers and onions add sweetness and crunch, balancing the spice.
It’s a bold, satisfying dish ideal for a filling midday meal or casual lunch gathering.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/4 cup onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season chicken with Cajun spices and cook until browned and cooked through.
- Add bell peppers and onions, cooking until tender.
- Stir in heavy cream and toss with pasta.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cajun seasoning creates bold, spicy flavor.
Chicken adds protein and substance to the dish.
Bell peppers and onions balance the heat with sweetness.
A rich, flavorful, and satisfying pasta perfect for lunch gatherings.
Caprese Tortellini Salad
This Caprese tortellini salad is fresh, cheesy, and ideal for a light, flavorful lunch.
Cheese-filled tortellini is combined with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella balls.
A drizzle of balsamic glaze and olive oil enhances flavor, while the salad can be served chilled or at room temperature.
It’s easy to prepare ahead, portable, and perfect for lunch parties or weekday meals.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cheese tortellini, cooked and cooled
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup mozzarella balls, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and cool.
- In a large bowl, combine tortellini, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Toss gently to coat evenly.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Cheese tortellini provides a creamy, hearty base.
Fresh tomatoes and basil add bright, refreshing flavors.
Balsamic glaze ties the dish together with tangy sweetness.
A colorful, flavorful, and portable pasta salad perfect for lunch.
Shrimp Scampi Pasta
This shrimp scampi pasta is garlicky, buttery, and perfect for a satisfying lunch.
Juicy shrimp are sautéed in garlic and butter, then tossed with al dente pasta and a splash of lemon juice.
Parsley adds freshness, while red pepper flakes provide a gentle kick.
It’s quick to prepare and ideal for a flavorful midday meal or casual lunch gathering.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz spaghetti or linguine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Pinch of red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp and cook until pink and opaque.
- Toss pasta with shrimp, lemon juice, parsley, and red pepper flakes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Garlic and butter create a rich, aromatic flavor.
Shrimp adds protein and a tender texture.
Lemon and parsley brighten the dish with fresh notes.
A quick, flavorful, and elegant pasta perfect for lunch.
Baked Ziti with Spinach
This baked ziti with spinach is hearty, cheesy, and perfect for a comforting lunch.
Al dente ziti is combined with ricotta, marinara sauce, and fresh spinach, then baked with a golden cheese topping.
It’s warm, satisfying, and ideal for feeding a group or enjoying as a packed lunch.
A classic, flavorful dish that balances creamy, tangy, and savory notes.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz ziti pasta
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large bowl, mix pasta, ricotta, marinara, and spinach.
- Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Serve warm.
Ricotta adds creamy richness to the pasta.
Spinach provides nutrients and a fresh flavor.
Baking melds flavors and creates a golden, cheesy topping.
A comforting, flavorful, and satisfying pasta perfect for lunch gatherings.
Pesto Veggie Tortellini
This pesto veggie tortellini is colorful, flavorful, and perfect for a quick lunch.
Cheese-filled tortellini is tossed with vibrant vegetables and fragrant basil pesto.
Parmesan cheese enhances the richness, while a drizzle of olive oil ties the flavors together.
It’s easy to prepare, visually appealing, and ideal for weekday meals or lunch parties.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz cheese tortellini, cooked
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup zucchini, sliced
- 1/4 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook tortellini according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Sauté zucchini and bell peppers in olive oil until tender.
- Toss tortellini with vegetables and basil pesto.
- Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Basil pesto provides aromatic, herbaceous flavor.
Vegetables add color, crunch, and nutrients.
Cheese tortellini makes the dish hearty and satisfying.
A quick, flavorful, and visually appealing pasta perfect for lunch.
Cajun Shrimp Alfredo
This Cajun shrimp Alfredo is creamy, spicy, and perfect for a bold lunch.
Juicy shrimp are seasoned with Cajun spices and tossed with fettuccine in a rich, creamy Alfredo sauce.
Parmesan cheese enhances depth, while a sprinkle of parsley adds freshness.
It’s indulgent, satisfying, and ideal for a flavorful midday meal that feels special.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz fettuccine
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and season shrimp with Cajun spices.
- Cook shrimp until pink and opaque.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan until smooth.
- Toss pasta with sauce and shrimp.
- Garnish with parsley and season with salt and pepper.
Cajun spices provide bold, flavorful heat.
Creamy sauce makes the dish indulgent and satisfying.
Shrimp adds protein and texture.
A rich, spicy pasta perfect for a memorable lunch experience.
Roasted Veggie Penne
This roasted veggie penne is hearty, healthy, and perfect for a lunch packed with flavor.
Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes are roasted until caramelized and tossed with penne pasta.
Olive oil and garlic enhance flavor, while Parmesan cheese adds richness.
It’s a simple, colorful, and satisfying dish that can be served warm or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss zucchini, bell pepper, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic on a baking sheet.
- Roast for 20–25 minutes until vegetables are tender and caramelized.
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and combine with roasted vegetables.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Roasted vegetables bring sweetness, depth, and vibrant color.
Olive oil and garlic enhance aroma and flavor.
Parmesan cheese adds savory richness.
A hearty, flavorful, and healthy pasta perfect for lunch gatherings or meal prep.
