30 Pasta Side Dishes You Want To Try!

Written by Jessica Published on April 19, 2024

Calling all pasta lovers! Pasta side dishes make a a great side to any meal, whether it be a cold pasta salad or a hot, cheesy pasta, there is a pasta to pair with just about anything. If you want light and fresh, or cold and creamy, there is a recipe for you in this compilation of pasta side dishes. So, if you’re a pasta lover, check this out.

Some of the Best Pasta Side Dishes

I like to serve pasta side dishes when we have guests over, because just about every person is a fan of pasta of some kind. There are so many different varieties of pasta sides, that I can always find something that goes well with my main course. Pasta is a comfort food as well, so I find that guests are usually happy with pasta as it evokes feelings of warmth and satisfaction. Many people have fond memories of enjoying pasta dishes with family and friends, making it a comforting and nostalgic food choice. Plus, it is easy to prepare and many recipes can be made in advance.

If you’re taking pasta to a bbq or picnic, these bowls with lids are great and portable!

Komax Biokips Set of 2 Large Salad Bowls with Lids...

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Pasta dishes make a great main course, such as our popular Swedish Pasta Bake that is a fan favorite! This post, however, is focusing on pasta dishes as SIDES. Pair it with a simple piece of grilled chicken, some meatballs, an Italian sausage, a steak…. whatever compliments it best!

Olive Garden says it best, pasta is “the comfort you crave!”

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How do pasta side dishes compliment a meal?

Texture Variation: Pasta side dishes often provide a different texture from the main course, adding variety to the meal. For example, if the main course is a grilled chicken breast, a side of pasta salad or creamy pasta would offer a contrasting texture.
Flavor Balance: Pasta side dishes can balance out the flavors of the main course. For instance, if the main dish is spicy or rich, a simple pasta with olive oil, garlic, and herbs can provide a refreshing and neutralizing contrast.
Carbohydrate Base: Pasta side dishes can serve as a substantial carbohydrate base for the meal, providing energy and satiety. This is particularly useful if the main course lacks carbohydrates or if you need to feed a hungry crowd.
Vegetable Inclusion: Pasta side dishes can be a convenient way to incorporate vegetables into the meal. Whether it’s a pasta primavera with assorted veggies or a pasta salad loaded with fresh produce, these dishes can contribute to a well-rounded meal.
Customization: Pasta side dishes offer versatility and can be customized to complement the flavors of the main course. You can adjust the sauce, seasoning, and ingredients to harmonize with the overall meal.
Presentation: Pasta side dishes can enhance the visual appeal of the meal, adding color and vibrancy to the plate. A well-presented side of pasta can elevate the dining experience and make the meal more inviting.

In summary, pasta side dishes can complement a meal by providing texture variation, balancing flavors, offering a carbohydrate base, incorporating vegetables, allowing for customization, and enhancing presentation. These factors contribute to a more satisfying and well-rounded dining experience.

30 of the Best Pasta Side Dishes

here you'll find 30 of the best pasta side dishes to compliment your main dish and make for a great meal!

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Garlic Butter Pasta

Easy 20-minute garlic butter pasta that goes so well with any dish! It’s super quick and easy to make, and it may seem so simple but it holds a ton of flavor! Plain spaghetti is smothered in a decadent butter garlic sauce, then topped with freshly grated parmesan and parsley. Simple, and perfect!

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Bruschetta Orzo Pasta Salad

Bruschetta orzo pasta salad is a tasty side dish recipe loaded with fresh diced tomatoes, red onions, fresh basil, garlic and feta cheese.

Photo Credit: midwestfoodieblog.com

Mexican Street Corn Pasta Salad

This Mexican street corn pasta salad is loaded with corn, cotija and a deliciously tangy, creamy dressing that is the stuff dreams are made of. It's quick and easy to throw together and is made up of mostly pantry ingredients that you've probably already got in your kitchen!

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Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Creamy sun dried tomato pasta is a super easy pasta dish with the most delicious, creamy sun-dried tomato sauce loaded with mozzarella & parmesan cheese. Have it on your dinner table in just 20 minutes!

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Cheese Pasta

This cheese pasta has your choice of pasta smothered in a delicious broccoli cheese sauce! This 30-minute recipe makes a perfect side dish or meatless meal!

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Pesto Pasta Salad

This pesto pasta salad has a creamy, bright basil dressing! It’s so refreshingly delicious! Eliminate the chicken for a simple side dish.

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Greek Tortellini Salad Recipe

This salad is made with cheese tortellini, tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, red onion, feta cheese, and simple Greek dressing. This easy pasta salad is perfect for summer potlucks and barbecues.

Photo Credit: lemonsandzest.com

20 Minute One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Simple creamy and so refreshing, this one pot lemon ricotta pasta is a 20 minute meal that is so effortless. Dinner comes together in just one dish and is full of flavor and even veggies.

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Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta

This creamy tomato basil pasta recipe is a delicious meatless meal that’s fast, simple to make, and is perfect for in-season summer tomatoes and fresh basil!

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Creamy Garlic Penne Pasta

This creamy, garlic penne pasta is robust and full of flavor and comes together in no time!

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Southern Baked Mac and Cheese

Our Southern baked mac and cheese recipe is extra creamy, rich and extra flavorful! It makes a wonderful comforting dinner all on it's own or a tasty side dish.

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Pasta With Artichokes

This easy pasta with artichokes uses canned artichoke hearts and a creamy parmesan sauce. It’s simple, ready in 15 minutes, and luxurious!

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Spinach Alfredo Pasta

Creamy and rich, yet never heavy, this spinach alfredo pasta is an easy and satisfying comfort food.

Photo Credit: midwestfoodieblog.com

Simple Antipasto Pasta Salad

Forget the boring, mayo-laden pasta salad and bring this fresh, hearty antipasto pasta salad to your next backyard barbecue!

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Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese

There’s something downright perfect about the combination of pasta covered in velvety, gooey cheese. It’s warm and comforting! This gouda mac and cheese has the incredible power to turn even the gloomiest day into a comfort-filled, carb-loaded delight.

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Baked Mediterranean Pasta

Baked Mediterranean pasta is simple, flavorful, and vibrant, loaded with fresh tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and olives, and topped with mozzarella cheese.

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Mexican Pasta Salad

This Mexican pasta salad is full of flavor! Loaded with black beans, corn, tomatoes, red onions, and fresh cilantro, all tossed in a thick and creamy slightly spicy homemade chipotle lime dressing! This will be your new favorite Summer side dish!

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Instant Pot Creamy Tomato Pasta

This instant pot creamy tomato pasta is absolutely fantastic! So simple to make and is done from start to finish in about 20 minutes. Your whole family will love it!

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Creamy Spinach Mushroom Pasta Bake

This creamy pasta casserole is packed full of flavor and makes a delicious quick weeknight dinner!

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One Pot Lemon Orzo pasta

Lemon orzo pasta has perfectly cooked orzo, with fresh lemon juice, garlic, parmesan, and a touch of cream to really send it over the top.

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Dill Pickle Pasta Salad

Dill pickle pasta salad is the perfect addition to any summer meal. Pasta, pickles, cheese and onion, all serve in a creamy dressing!

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BLT Pasta Salad

BLT pasta salad is a delicious summer pasta salad idea! Bacon, lettuce, and tomatoes with farfalle pasta and creamy dressing (no mayo option too!) are like your favorite BLT sandwich toppings in a bowl.

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Teriyaki Noodles

These easy teriyaki noodles combine fried stir-fry noodles in tasty teriyaki sauce to make the best base for many great meals.

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Bacon Mac ‘N Cheese Bites

These don't just have to be an appetizer. Have them as a side with burgers and hot dogs on the grill!

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Goat Cheese Pasta

Ready for some grown up shells and cheese? This luxurious goat cheese pasta sauce is simple to make and will elevate those classic pasta shells with only a few ingredients. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with your favorite grated cheese for a rich and satisfying meal.